LSU defensive end Danielle Hunter will join the Minnesota Vikings after being selected with the 88th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. A freakish athlete who oozes potential, Hunter has the prototypical size and build to develop into a solid pass rusher at the next level.
NFL Draft results 2015: Danielle Hunter taken by Vikings in 3rd round
The LSU defensive end is a tremendous athlete with tons of upside and the physical traits to become an elite pass rusher in the NFL.
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Hunter started all 13 games for LSU during his junior season, finishing with 73 tackles, 1.5 sacks and a team-leading 13 tackles for loss. The junior defensive end was also first among all SEC defensive linemen in “stuffs” (tackles for no gain or loss of yards) with 17, according to NFL.com. Hunter was a key member of a Tigers defense that led the SEC in total defense and ranked second in points allowed.
The 6’5, 252-pound lineman showcased his explosive speed at the combine in February, posting the fastest 40-yard dash time among defensive linemen (4.57 seconds). That impressive showing likely upped his draft stock, but there are still concerns about his overall pass rushing skills and technique based on his game tape.
With tremendous athletic upside and a good motor, Hunter is often compared to Jason Pierre-Paul in terms of his similar length, burst and potential. However, his production in college didn't match his physical tools, and he probably needs some time to develop before he can contribute on a consistent basis in the NFL.
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