Tommy Togiai 2021 NFL Draft scouting report and team fits

Tommy Togiai out of Ohio State is a prominent prospect at the defensive tackle position in the 2021 NFL Draft. The Pocatello, Idaho native, was a force on the defensive interior in his three-year career as a Buckeye by racking up 8.5 tackles for loss.

More importantly, Togiai burst onto the 2020 collegiate season scene in a big way by generating three sacks and one forced fumble on Ohio State’s march to the 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship. Clemson University felt his presence, as he was a terror for the Tigers in Allstate Sugar Bowl (CFB Semifinal) matchup.

That game capped off what was already an impressive resume at one of college football’s premier programs. Still, a few characteristics set him apart from other defensive tackles in April’s upcoming draft class.

What makes DT Tommy Togiai special?

The first trait that jumps out about Ohio State’s Tommy Togiai is his nonstop motor. Simply put, his effort is second to none on every play.

As you can see above, the 300-pounder isn’t the fastest player on the field, but that does not stop him from relentlessly pursuing the ballcarrier until the whistle is blown. This type of effort is not prominent throughout defensive tackles at most football levels. With that being said, his effort paired with his moderately quick first-step at his size makes him difficult for opposing offensive linemen to contend with for the duration of games.

His athleticism at the line of scrimmage allows him to be a stout run defender on both inside and outside runs at the NFL level. Tommy isn’t the strongest or largest of defensive tackles, but he does possess powerful hands to assist him. Finally, Togiaia has also flashed the ability to be a force as an interior pass rusher at times.

Moving forward, if he can become a more impactful player on passing downs from his position, he bears the potential to be an exceptional football player at the next level. Overall, he is a fluid prospect who can be a starting interior defensive lineman in 2021 at the NFL level.

Where can Tommy Togiai improve and NFL fits?

As alluded to earlier, Tommy Togiai possesses adequate strength, but he has room to become stronger at the NFL level. Furthermore, an NFL strength and conditioning program that can enhance his athleticism and strength can turn him into a potentially devastating football player.

Given his diverse skillset, Togiaia is a player than can fit into multiple defensive schemes given his high football I.Q. He projects favorably as a defensive tackle in an even front defense compared to an odd front defense, given his shorter length at the position. The following teams would benefit the most from his services within the first two rounds of April’s draft:

• Atlanta Falcons
• Carolina Panthers
• Cleveland Browns
• Detroit Lions
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Las Vegas Raiders
• Minnesota Vikings

As a top-three defensive tackle in the 2021 NFL Draft class, anticipate his name to be called upon before the third round this spring. Tommy possesses a high ceiling and high floor with an NFL organization that can maximize his physical attributes with a quality strength and conditioning program.