Packers 2018 Draft: Pre-Combine Position Rankings

Defensive Line Rankings

1. Maurice Hurst, Michigan

2. Da’Ron Payne, Alabama

3. Vita Vea, Washington

4. Taven Bryan, Florida

5. Harrison Phillips, Stanford

6. Andrew Brown, Virginia

7. Justin Jones, NC State

8. B.J. Hill, NC State

9. Derrick Nnadi, Florida State

10. Lowell Lotulelei, Utah

Other: Rasheem Green (USC), Breeland Speaks (Ole Miss), Poona Ford (Texas), Trenton Thompson (Georgia), Tim Settle (Virginia Tech), Reggie McKenzie Jr. (Tennessee)

Overview: Hurst and Ryan are explosive three-technique defensive tackles who can blow up plays in the backfield and generate pressure on passing downs. With the increasing emphasis on the three-tech position in the NFL, they should each be drafted high.

Phillips and Payne are versatile 3-4 defensive ends who can also play the three or one-tech on the inside in a 4-3 front. They’re both active against the run, can hold the point of attack at the line of scrimmage, and can get some push as interior rushers on third down.

Vea is an excellent athlete, especially for a player listed at 6-foot-5 and 340 pounds. He could blow up the combine and secure his spot in the first round. However, on tape Vea’s motor is inconsistent and he doesn’t always live up to the potential his unique athleticism suggests.

After the Senior Bowl, Brown’s stock has really risen. His athleticism and playmaking ability were hidden in Virginia’s 3-4 two-gap scheme. However, in Mobile Brown was able to showcase his ability to win one-on-ones and get after the passer.

He seems to be a lock for the second round.

The Packers seem to like their current defensive line group, but the way the draft could fall, guys like Payne, Phillips, or Brown fit their scheme well and could be the best player available in the first or second round.