On the defensive side of the ball, the Auburn Tigers have a pair of front seven defenders who will likely be their reason for success in 2021. Derick Hall is likely going to be among the top players at his position when it comes to the NFL draft in 2022.
Over the last two seasons, Hall has accounted for 74 of his 86 quarterback pressures. Most on the team during that span. For the Tigers’ defense to be successful it will be up to Hall to set the tone for the front seven of the defense. With another productive season on the plains, he should be right in line to be among the top edge rushers of the class.
The Athletic (subscription required) weighs in on the most intriguing NFL draft prospect for each SEC school.
Hall’s length and general burst off the edge make him a very interesting prospect with a pretty high ceiling. He had 12.5 TFLs and nine sacks at Auburn last season as a 6-3, 256-pound edge defender who wore multiple hats.
As a pass rusher, Hall shows an ability to bend and get to the corner, at times. His length and get-off are also natural problems for offensive tackles in obvious passing situations. Hall’s overall rush plan is still pretty basic and needs more development, but it’s all in there. He plays with a lot of effort and shows a willingness to chase plays down from the back side. Hall can also turn his hips and run with backs and some tight ends while being able to cover a lot of ground in zone with his long wingspan.
Elsewhere at Auburn, junior running back Tank Bigsby has been terrific through two years with the Tigers: 1,933 yards and 15 touchdowns to go along with 32 catches for 268 yards. Keep an eye on him.
[mm-video type=video id=01g37q0whwr6z0syaayc playlist_id=01eqbyzb4ahnasj2m3 player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/video/thumbnail/mmplus/01g37q0whwr6z0syaayc/01g37q0whwr6z0syaayc-a28e49811620ce2cd7edb503d16139fd.jpg]
[listicle id=47576]
Contact/Follow us @TheAuburnWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Auburn news, notes, and opinion. You can also follow Patrick on Twitter @PatrickConnCFB.
Let us know your thoughts, and comment on this story below. Join the conversation today!