In this installment of the All-Sleeper Team series, we turn our complete attention to the defensive side of the ball with a look at a pair of defensive ends.
Before doing so, be sure to check out any previous editions you missed.
In Case You Missed It:
Introduction
Quarterback & Tight End
Running Back & Fullback
Wide Receivers
Offensive Tackles
Offensive Guards
Center & Middle Linebacker
Before doing so, be sure to check out any previous editions you missed.
In Case You Missed It:
Introduction
Quarterback & Tight End
Running Back & Fullback
Wide Receivers
Offensive Tackles
Offensive Guards
Center & Middle Linebacker
Yannick Ngakoue
Maryland
6'2" 252 lbs.
6th round projection
Full Draft Breakdown Profile
PROS: Displays versatility to play either 3-4 outside linebacker or 4-3 defensive end. Showcases an effective spin move. Rarely bites on fakes. Has ability to shed blocks. Penetrates the line often get into backfield for tackles for loss or sacks. Drew some double teams at Maryland. Maintains nice leverage.
CONS: Occasionally will get overpowered. Doesn't appear to have much explosion off the snap, takes time to build up speed. Many of his sacks were thanks to great coverage. At times ineffective against the run. Lacks ideal size and length.
BOTTOM LINE: Ngakoue is a productive, high motor player. Very athletic. A bit raw, will need good coaching to develop fully at the next level. Did show solid improvement in senior season. Will likely be a lower round pick with a high upside.
Maryland
6'2" 252 lbs.
6th round projection
Full Draft Breakdown Profile
PROS: Displays versatility to play either 3-4 outside linebacker or 4-3 defensive end. Showcases an effective spin move. Rarely bites on fakes. Has ability to shed blocks. Penetrates the line often get into backfield for tackles for loss or sacks. Drew some double teams at Maryland. Maintains nice leverage.
CONS: Occasionally will get overpowered. Doesn't appear to have much explosion off the snap, takes time to build up speed. Many of his sacks were thanks to great coverage. At times ineffective against the run. Lacks ideal size and length.
BOTTOM LINE: Ngakoue is a productive, high motor player. Very athletic. A bit raw, will need good coaching to develop fully at the next level. Did show solid improvement in senior season. Will likely be a lower round pick with a high upside.
Jihad Ward
Illinois
6'5" 297 lbs.
4th round projection
Full Draft Breakdown Profile
PROS: High motor, plays through the whistle. Showed nice burst off the line of scrimmage. Moves well laterally. Has the versatility to play on either end, or on the inside at tackle. Has long limbs and utilizes them well. Closes well when in pursuit. Hard hitter. Disengages from blocks in time to make plays. Plays with good leverage. Feet continue churning through contact, almost as if he's a running back. Very impressive Senior Bowl week.
CONS: Lacks football instincts, thinking seems to slow down his play at times. Could improve his tackling. Doesn't play with much intensity. Unsure of how to use his hands. Occasionally loses his balance. At times can be overpowered.
BOTTOM LINE: Ward is a natural athlete with a raw, unrefined game. Began as a wide receiver and safety before moving to the defensive line, so what he accomplished at Illinois was impressive. Can fit in either scheme. 4th round developmental prospect with an abundance of untapped potential.
Illinois
6'5" 297 lbs.
4th round projection
Full Draft Breakdown Profile
PROS: High motor, plays through the whistle. Showed nice burst off the line of scrimmage. Moves well laterally. Has the versatility to play on either end, or on the inside at tackle. Has long limbs and utilizes them well. Closes well when in pursuit. Hard hitter. Disengages from blocks in time to make plays. Plays with good leverage. Feet continue churning through contact, almost as if he's a running back. Very impressive Senior Bowl week.
CONS: Lacks football instincts, thinking seems to slow down his play at times. Could improve his tackling. Doesn't play with much intensity. Unsure of how to use his hands. Occasionally loses his balance. At times can be overpowered.
BOTTOM LINE: Ward is a natural athlete with a raw, unrefined game. Began as a wide receiver and safety before moving to the defensive line, so what he accomplished at Illinois was impressive. Can fit in either scheme. 4th round developmental prospect with an abundance of untapped potential.