3. Justin Madubuike, Texas A&M 6-3, 300 (2)
Why He’s Here On The List: A force in the backfield, he led the Aggies in tackles for loss, was active against the run, and was always coming, always working. He might not be for everyone, but he was an elite SEC defensive lineman over the last two years who’ll be a long-time starter at the next level.
What The NFL Types Want To See: Can he be the most athletic tackle in the draft? He’s more quick and athletic than explosive, and he’s not an anchor who’ll take on double-teams and stuff the run – he has to look the part of a difference-maker behind the line. The more pop he can show off the ball, teh better.
Bottom Line: You can’t build a defense around him, but he could be a final piece of a puzzle with bulk on the rest of the line to allow him to do what he does behind the line. He’ll be underappreciated and likely under-drafted because of his lack of raw bulk.