The 2012 NFL Draft got an infusion of defensive line talent today as end Whitney Mercilus of Illinois and tackle Fletcher Cox of Mississippi State turned pro.
Whitney Mercilus, Fletcher Cox enter 2012 NFL Draft
The moves were expected by both. Illinois announced Mercilus’ decision while was broken by Pete Thamel of the New York Times.
Mercilus enters the draft after leading the nation in sacks with 16 in his first year as a starter. He's strong off the line of scrimmage and relentless. He's a lot like Jabaal Sheard of the Browns. He's not an elite speed rusher, but his pursuit is good.
Cox was a first-team all-conference player after finishing the season with 14.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. Cox had a hot middle of the season when he had two sacks against each South Carolina and Kentucky. Like Mercilus, Cox will likely land in the early to middle portion of the second round of the draft.
Juniors have until Jan. 15 to enter the draft.
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