2021 NFL Draft: Top SEC prospects to watch on opening weekend

Texas A&M interior defensive lineman Bobby Brown III

The more I watch Texas A&M interior defensive lineman Bobby Brown III, the more I come away impressed. While he is not a freak interior rusher who is going to pile up big-time sack totals, he is an extremely well-rounded player who should be able to find a home at the next level.

Brown shows obvious power at the point of attack and consistently does a great job of playing with proper pad level. He can anchor in and two-gap against the run at an extremely high level and even shows an impressive combination of quickness and power that allows him to create some pressure in the pass rush.

Brown is undoubtedly a gifted player who has a high ceiling, but he needs to become more consistent if he wants to raise his 2021 NFL Draft stock. He should dominate in this matchup against Vanderbilt and if he does, it could be the start of a breakout season for Brown.

Vanderbilt defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo

Unlike most SEC schools, Vanderbilt is not loaded with exciting 2021 NFL Draft talent. They have a few guys to keep an eye on, but they are likely late-round prospects at best.

After piling up 12 tackles for loss last season, Dayo Odeyingbo stands out as my favorite player of the bunch. Odeyingbo is listed as a defensive end by Vanderbilt, but he lines up all over the Commodores’ defensive line. He is not the most athletic player up front, but Odeyingbo is a tough and physical player who shows great instincts against the run. He could undoubtedly have a future at the next level as a versatile early-down defender.