2020 NFL Draft: Patriots find a QB of the future in two-round mock draft
Scouting Report. player. 46. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Iowa. A.J. Epenesa. 13
Behind Chase Young, A.J. Epenesa is regarded by many as the next best pass rusher in the 2020 NFL Draft. Epenesa is a physical freak at 6-foot-6 and 280 lbs. His balance of length and power allow him to beat blocks in a variety of ways.
Epenesa is quick off the ball and delivers a powerful initial punch after the snap. He has heavy hands that allow him to use his length to his advantage, keeping blockers at bay. He is able to use his strength to power through linemen on his way to the quarterback.
While Epenesa isn’t known for his speed or finesse moves, going to a team like the Colts may be the perfect destination for him to round out his skill set. With some of the best edge rushers to ever do it surrounding the organization (Justin Houston on the roster and Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis likely no strangers to Indy), there may not be a better place for a young pass rusher to learn and develop.
14. player. LSU. Grant Delpit. 48. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Safety
The Buccaneers passed on Derwin James in 2018 when nearly everyone thought that was a slam dunk pick based on the player ability and the team need. Today, the team still has the need and there is a player that, although is not the same level of a prospect that James was, has a rather similar skill set.
The Bucs secondary has been atrocious. While Jameis Winston hasn’t exactly helped himself out with his 30 interceptions, he always seemed to find himself needing to put up 30 or 40 points just to compete in games.
Grant Delpit can do it all for the Buccaneers defense. He can lurk in a deep zone and break on the ball to make a play. He often plays in the box as an extra linebacker of sorts, ranging sideline to sideline making tackles. He can even cover receivers and tight ends in man to man coverage and hold his own.
Despite some misreads and missed tackles throughout the year Delpit is an instinctual and productive safety who was given the 2019 Jim Thorpe Award as the best defensive back in the country. Tampa desperately needs a guy like Delpit, and here he is at 14.