2019 NFL Draft: Top defensive players at each position

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HOUSTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 01: Ed Oliver #10 of the Houston Cougars rests on the sideline in the first half against the Rice Owls at Rice Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

Defensive Tackle #1: Ed Oliver, Houston

Ed Oliver has been my 2019 NFL Draft defensive tackle #1 since the day he left Westfield High School in Houston, Texas. And despite the late push Quinnen Williams made, I have to stay true to my guy because I’ve got to trust my gut. (PS: It’s big enough to do so)

This was the 4th overall player in the 2016 recruiting class, and he chose Houston. Why? Because he’s loyal to the soil. This is a young man that decided to forego the big time programs and shot at a bigger national stage. Instead, he decided to bring that national attention to his city.

Hell, this is a kid that during the carnival that was his recruiting process in high school, didn’t even have a cell phone. In a generation where athletes can’t make it through halftime without checking their Twitter mentions, this is truly an old soul, and one I’m more than willing to invest in. Even if it means choosing him over Quinnen Williams at DT#1.

As for his playing ability, just take a look at the tape. Oliver faced double team after double team in college, with the occasional triple team coming his way. Despite all of that attention, no defensive lineman plays with a higher motor than Oliver either. He has a chance to be something special.

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