2021 NFL Draft defensive tackle rankings: Jaylen Twyman is underrated

7. Alim McNeil, North Carolina State
6-foot-2, 320 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Fourth round

One of the more productive nose tackles in college football the past two seasons has been North Carolina State’s, Alim McNeil. Over the 2019 and 2020 seasons, he has recorded 12 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. While these numbers might not sound all that impressive for a defensive tackle for a play who was always lined up in a zero-technique they are very impressive which is the main reason he was named a second-team AP All-American.

McNeil is a force vs the run as he does a great job of tying up blockers and has the quickness to slide off blocks. He also shows good extension when firing out of his stance which helps him control the offensive lineman assigned to block him. While he might not be a big threat vs. the pass he does have a fast first step, especially for someone 320 pounds. In terms of his NFL potential, he should be able to make it as a 3-4 nose tackle or two-gap defensive tackle.

8. Jay Tufele, USC
6-foot-3, 305 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Fourth round

While Jay Tufele only played two years at USC he established himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the PAC-12. He was named USC’s defensive lineman of the year in both 2018 and 2019 and ended his career with 41 tackles and 4.5 sacks. As a prospect, he shows good strength and moves well for someone over 300 pounds. He also has a quick first step which allows him to make plays in the backfield.

The biggest concern with Tufele is his football IQ. He has trouble diagnosing plays at times and is not very good when asked to read and react. There have also been some overall questions about his maturity level by NFL scouts. In terms of NFL fit, he would likely fit best in a one-gap defensive scheme where he will be just asked to attack gaps.