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NFL Draft 2016: Pro comparisons for top 10 prospects

By Gabe Encinas

Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Bram Kohlhausen (6) scores against Oregon Ducks defensive end DeForest Buckner (44) at the Valero Alamo Bowl in the Alamodome. TCU won 47-41 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Bram Kohlhausen (6) scores against Oregon Ducks defensive end DeForest Buckner (44) at the Valero Alamo Bowl in the Alamodome. TCU won 47-41 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports /

The obvious pick here is Calais Campbell, with their length and skill set being eerily similar. More of a speed and finesse rusher, DeForest Buckner also has a great amount of strength. It feels like Campbell has been in the league for over a decade, simply because of his production year in and year out. If Buckner can go to the right fit, he will be the same way.

Oregon’s defense was not good last season, one of the worst in the nation. But Buckner proved to be the bright spot. Going up against Pac-12 offenses, typically spread, I don’t think that we saw all the greatness inside of the Buckner throughout his career. If he were going up against traditional offenses, he would have had even more production.

Before the rise of Jalen Ramsey, Buckner had to have been the best defensive prospect in the draft, simply because of his versatility. Buckner is a guy who could play as a 4-3 defensive end but is ideally suited to play end in a 3-4 . Whether he’s standing or in a stance, he’s going to be able to get to the quarterback.

Next: 3. Jalen Ramsey

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