No. 11 Oregon vs. No. 16 Auburn: Top 2020 NFL Draft prospects to watch
Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
We were all a bit surprised to see Derrick Brown return to Auburn this season. He was a potential first-round pick in last year’s draft but returned to school for his senior season. Now, Brown enters the season as one of the premier defensive players in the 2020 NFL Draft class.
Brown is a long, powerful and athletic defensive tackle who uses his length extremely well to keep offensive linemen off of his body. He is also an impressive interior penetrator who consistently makes plays behind the line of scrimmage against the run and as a pass rusher.
The Auburn star defender has massive natural upside and will undoubtedly be in the first-round conversation next April. I am excited to see how he much of an impact he can make Saturday night against Oregon’s strong offensive line.
Marlon Davidson, DL, Auburn
Marlon Davidson has been a three-year starter and rock-solid contributor for the Auburn Tigers. Through his four seasons at Auburn, Davidson has piled up 126 total tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks. He is a long and aggressive defensive end who plays hard and consistently dominates against the run.
Davidson is not the most athletic or dynamic rusher on the edge, but he is a good, solid player who will have some fans in the NFL draft community. While his pass rush upside on the outside is limited, Davidson could be an interesting interior rusher if given the opportunity.