2020 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking the Top 10 EDGE defenders

As mentioned before, Julian Okwara is considered one of the fastest edge rushers in the country. In the 2020 NFL draft though, Curtis Weaver has shown to be THE fastest edge rusher in the draft class. On much of Weaver’s tape, he did not demonstrate polished pass-rush moves because he never needed to.

Having such explosiveness on the edge allowed Weaver to beat tackles to the spot and get on their outside hip almost every sack opportunity. When Weaver does get stuck into the trenches though, he pulls out some moves that can create opportunities but relies more on his motor than polished technique. Weaver could become a top-tier edge rusher from the 2020 NFL draft if he is able to polish his technique and win leverage battles.

Davidson is a big-body (6-foot-3, 282 pounds) five-technique defensive linemen who generates much of his pressure via an outside rush. Even at 282 lbs, Davidson shows an impressive burst off of the line of scrimmage and can get to the outside hip of almost any opposing tackle. If Davidson is to become a starting edge rusher in the NFL, Davidson will need to slim down to add to that explosiveness (ex: Javon Kinlaw). Davidson on tape looks like a heavier Curtis Weaver and could have a similar pass-rush style if he is able to slim down for the NFL.

Willekes is a gritty five-technique edge rusher who has shown the ability to slide to the three and (occasionally) one-technique. Willekes does not have the elite athleticism or technical polish of prospects named before him, but he is more than capable of creating pressure.

Willekes is also adept at playing rushing lanes and cutting off opportunities for ball carriers. Most of his sacks and pressures have been produced via power moves and lateral agility, getting to the edge or gaining inside leverage with shed moves and shuffles to the intended rushing lane.