During this time of the draft season, there are a lot of evaluators moving prospects up and down their draft board. One prospect that is getting a ton of attention is Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers. There has been a media blitz surrounding both Bowers' knee injury and average pro day workout. Concerns were expressed about the level of severity with Bowers' knee injury. The word spread quickly and some mentioned that it was a very significant injury. However, Bowers was able to workout at his recent pro day and showed little effects of the injury. The biggest criticism has come over Bower's 4.9 second 40 yard dash. Many have gone as far as stating that Bowers will fall out of the top 15 of the draft.
Da’Quan Bowers Could Be a Draft Day Steal
I am a strong believer in Da’Quan Bowers and feel that he will have a very successful NFL career. While the knee injury and 40 time should impact his draft stock it shouldn’t be significant. Workouts and tests play to much of a role in the evaluation process and sometimes clouds a team’s perception. Bowers is suffering from technology and social media as the twitter universe is full of criticisms. However, I am confident that NFL teams will be making their own judgments but the public perception on Bowers has taken a negative turn.
We need to let Bowers' play on the field speak louder than workouts and perception. Bowers had an excellent career at Clemson and proved to be a well rounded football player. He possesses the ability to effectively rush the passer while still contributing in the running game. He has been compared to Julius Peppers and while he might not be at that level it is a good comparison. Bowers uses his hands better than most defensive ends coming out of college and that allows him to stack and shed. His hand usage also keeps offensive linemen off his body permitting him to disengage and attack.
The big deal made about Bowers 40 time does not reflex the most important attribute of a defensive end. Explosion off the line is how players make a true impact. Bowers possesses excellent explosion and short area quickness which is why he will be successful in the NFL.
Bowers will prove to be a draft day steal if he falls out of the top 6 and should remain in consideration for the top overall pick. Lets hear your thoughts on this topic!
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