Elite Defensive Tackles in the 2019 NFL Draft

#4 Christian Wilkins (Clemson Tigers)

Christian Wilkins

A 5-star recruit out of high school, Christian Wilkins committed to play college football at Clemson University. For 4 years from 2015 to 2018, Wilkins led one of the nations most talented football defenses and helped them to two national championships in 2016 and 2018.

He was a destructive interior presence along the Clemson defensive line throughout his career totaling 192 tackles, 40.5 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, 15 pass deflections, and 2 forced fumbles.

Wilkins is an upfield three-technique guy who can make plays outside his area, he is a versatile player who has played all across the defensive line in his career with the Tigers. He is at his best when working through the edges of the blockers. Wilkins is an explosive rusher, who relies on his quickness to avoid blockers and does well while avoiding cut blocks. Has an array of pass-rushing moves which he puts on display when making contact with offensive linemen.

While there aren't any glaring downfalls in Wilkins' game, his arm length (32 1/2) has been a matter of concern among scouts and coaches in the league. The word out there is that he may find the going tough against offensive linemen with longer reach but apart from that he is a solid prospect can start on most defensive lines from day 1.