Earlier this week I put up the 3-4 defensive end rankings, so naturally there are two more 3-4 positions to handle. Today, the nose tackles, which are after the jump.
2012 NFL Draft 3-4 defensive tackle rankings
The biggest point of contention some may have is Alameda Ta'amu ranked as low as he is. When I watch Ta'amu, I don't see the natural traits that are typically looked for in nose tackles. It's true, he's a big body with a wide base, a must for most nose tackles. But he's more of a penetrating defensive tackle.
The main goal of a nose tackle is to occupy blockers and stop the run. Ta’amu looks more natural playing one gap and getting after the passer. Check out the rankings and let me know what you think.
| 1. Dontari Poe | 6'5, 350 pounds | Memphis * |
| 2. Josh Chapman, 6'1, 310 pounds | Alabama |
| 3. Star Lotulelei | 6'3, 325 pounds | Utah * |
| 4. Hebron Fangupo | 6'1, 331 pounds | BYU |
| 5. Sylvester Williams | 6'3, 320 pounds | North Carolina * |
| 6. Nicolas Jean-Baptiste | 6'2, 335 pounds | Baylor |
| 7. Alameda Ta'amu | 6'3, 337 pounds | Washington |
| 8. John Jenkins | 6'3, 351 pounds | Georgia * |
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