Independent Football Teams: Top Seven Players in 2015

Nov 23, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Cam McDaniel (33) carries the ball as BYU Cougars defensive lineman Bronson Kaufusi (90) defends in the third quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame won 23-13. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Bronson Kaufusi didn’t have the best year last season, as he was moved from defensive line to linebacker, but now he’s back at defensive end, which is the best fit for him. Still, he managed to get seven sacks last year, even though he missed some playing time as well. He has great athleticism and a high ceiling for this year. I think he could get drafted in the first three rounds of the NFL Draft.

The 6-7 senior lineman was rated ninth at his position as a recruit and was the top player out of Utah, by Rivals.com. He has been nominated to a number of preseason watch lists and made Phil Steele’s 2015 Preseason Independent First-Team All-American list.

While BYU’s 3-4 offense usually gives most of the big plays to the linebackers, Kaufusi should be able to act as a solid component of BYU’s defense, and he could match or improve his previous performances. His biggest contribution on the line is his size, where he consistently tips the ball at the line of scrimmage. You should hear his name called several times a game if opponents don’t have a solid game plan against him.

Next: Sheldon Day