The projected rounds for each player is a guess on which round I believe the player will be selected. It is not meant to reflect my view of the player or how I think the player will turn out as a pro. That reflection can be seen in the order I rank the player and the analysis I give.
http://www.fantasyfootballjungle.com/articles/index.php?id=909 DEs
1. Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech
Considered by many to be a safe pick, Morgan has the prototype size of a pro defensive end. He's quick off the ball and uses his hands very well. He's also physical at the point of attack. Not only can he get after the quarterback, but he's stout against the run. Despite all this, Morgan may not have the potential to develop into a game changer. He'll be good, but maybe not great. I'd take good over high risk any day.
Projected Round: 1st
2. Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida
A freak of a talent, Pierre-Paul has more upside than any defensive player in the draft. His combination of size and athleticism is what teams look for in a pass rusher. He also doesn't take plays off and at times can be relentless. Despite all the good qualities, Pierre-Paul is a very raw talent. He needs to get better playing the run and he could be more physical. He's a boom or bust prospect because he's so raw. If you hit on him, he's a grand slam, but if you miss, you're missing big.
Projected Round: 1st
3. Everson Griffen, Southern California
In terms of talent, Griffen bows to nobody except for Pierre-Paul and maybe Carlos Dunlap. He has an excellent combination of size and athleticism. In fact, some teams may view him as an outside linebacker in the 3-4 because he's such a good athlete. However, I think he's better with his hand on the ground especially with his burst. He's been an underachiever and struggles against the run, but he solidified his status as a first round pick with a solid 2009 season.
Projected Round: 1st
4. Jared Odrick, Penn State
A physical high motor player, Odrick projects to be a 3-4 defensive end. He creates good leverage and is a powerful player. Still he can be blocked and sometimes he doesn't play with a mean streak. Overall, he's a solid, but not a great prospect. While I could see him playing 4-3 defensive tackle, he looks more like a space eater in the 3-4 at the next level that is also capable of penetrating and providing the occasional big play. With five techniques so difficult to find, he may go higher than people think.
Projected Round: 1st
5. Carlos Dunlap, Florida
There aren't any talent red flags with Dunlap. He's a big, athletic, gets after the quarterback and plays the run. However, his work ethic is questionable and he has character concerns. He was suspended for the 2009 SEC championship game because of a drunk driving arrest. Despite his numbers, some feel he's been a bit of an underachiever and has taken plays off. He might be the perfect example of whether or not the risk is worth the reward. In his case it might be.
Projected Round: 1st or 2nd
6. Tyson Alualu, California
Alualu plays the run well and gets a good push at the pocket. He's fairly athletic for his size and does a nice job of pursuing the ball carrier. He's versatile. Some may believe he could fit in the 4-3 as a three technique, but I believe he's 3-4 defensive end. Nothing spectacular about him, but solid all around.
Projected Round: 1st or 2nd
7. Corey Wootton, Northwestern
While he lacks the athleticism teams strive to find, Wootton has the prototype size you look for a defensive lineman. He has a good motor and is solid against the run. He has the frame to bulk up and because he isn't much of an athlete, he could potentially project as a five technique.
Projected Round: 2nd or 3rd
8. Jermaine Cunningham, Florida
Cunningham might be a bit undersized, but he attacks well off the ball. He needs to get stronger as he can get pushed around quite a bit. Still he does a good job of tracking down the ball carrier and could develop into a spot starter down the road.
Projected Round: 4th or 5th
9. Greg Hardy, Mississippi
Once considered a first round pick, Hardy has battled injuries the past few years. In fact, some doubt whether or not he's back at full strength. Can he become the player most had originally thought? He's an excellent athlete with great size and possess all the tools to be a starting defensive end, but his durability concerns will drop him.
Projected Round: 4th
10. Clifton Geathers, South Carolina
A physical player, Geathers is a mountain of a man. He's 6-7 and 300 pounds and because of his height, he struggles to play low where football is supposed to be played. He doesn't look natural at times, but he does a nice job playing the run and getting off blocks. He might be a project and teams will be divided on where he projects long term, but he's an intriguing talent none the less.
Projected Round: 4th