2017 NFL Draft Pro Comparisons: The Edge Rushers
By Erik Lambert
The 2017 NFL draft pro comparisons shifts to one of the more popular spots on a roster. This class appears to be quite loaded at the edge rusher position.
Edge rushers come in many shapes and size but they all need to have a certain set of traits in order to do the most important job on a defense: get the quarterback on the ground. Does this incoming class feature some solid comparisons or are they destined for some rather modest careers based on their skill sets and physical dimensions?
Myles Garrett (Texas A&M)
He’s been proclaimed the best pass rusher and the best overall player by many draft pundits already. That’s just a testament to the sheer physical talent Garrett has. He’s such a rare genetic breed in that he has the size and power of a defensive end mixed with the speed and quickness of a linebacker. He’s able to shrug off blocks almost at will but is absolutely devastating with his explosive first step. Often tackles are never able to get back in time before he’s got them beat.
Comparison: Bruce Smith
From a perspective of physical dimensions and ability, it’s uncanny how much Garrett is like the all-time NFL sack leader. Bruce Smith came out of Virginia Tech with some questions about his conditioning and health. The argument against that, according to GM Bill Polian, was “God only makes so many of these guys.” Buffalo drafted Smith and he helped them to four Super Bowls. If Garrett embraces the same work ethic, he can achieve similar heights.