The pass rusher is a sought after commodity in today’s NFL. Find a way to bring down the quarterback consistently, and the pay checks will continue to get bigger and bigger.
2013 NFL Draft all-underrated team: Corey Lemonier headlines sleeper defensive ends
Between now and April 25, we will be unveiling our All-Underrated and All-Overrated teams for the 2013 NFL Draft. Each team will be revealed position by position with a first-team selection, second-team selection and honorable mentions as we see fit. We continue with the All-Underrated defensive ends.
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Dion Jordan, Barkevious Mingo and Ziggy Ansah have stolen the spotlight in the 2013 NFL Draft. Each has rare physical skills coupled with enough production to entice teams picking high in the draft order.
More: NFL Draft 2013 coverage
But the class of defensive ends has a bit of depth to it. Starting in the third round, value really starts to present itself with prospects that have flaws but also the upside to collect double digit sacks in the NFL.
Here are the most under-appreciated defensive ends the 2013 NFL Draft has to offer.
First team: Corey Lemonier, Auburn
The 2012 season was a disappointment for Auburn, but Corey Lemonier certainly lived up to expectations. The versatile pass rusher plays with solid leverage and has the first step and bend to be an effective edge rusher in the NFL. He’ll need to continue to get stronger, but Lemonier has the ability to play with his hand in the ground and also standing up, which would be a nice weapon for a creative defensive coordinator.
Second team: Quanterus Smith, Western Kentucky
Had he not torn his ACL, Quanterus Smith would be getting first round buzz right now. He’s the most technically sound pass rusher in this class, showing a wide array of pass rush moves and an understanding of how to use them to get after the quarterback. His measurables don’t stack up to the big dogs of this draft class and the knee is a concern, but Smith will be a value pick if he falls beyond the third round.
Honorable mention: John Youboty, Temple
John Youboty was often used out of position while he was at Temple, playing defensive tackle instead of edge rusher, which his frame is more suited for. However, his time inside has helped him develop solid hand use and the ability to disengage from blocks. He will need some time to get accustomed to playing on the edge or even standing up, but Youboty has a ton of potential.
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