Miami defensive tackle R.J. McIntosh possesses versatility that will make him a valuable player in the NFL. Where will he go in the 2018 NFL Draft?
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There can sometimes be a stigma of what type of player and physique defensive tackles hold. Often times they are not seen as the quickest or most athletic type, and that my be true. In order to be an effective defensive tackle, it is crucial there is a great deal of strength needed, but also speed.
Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle R.J. McIntosh is the epitome of balance when it comes to strength and speed in that position and due to his versatility on the defensive side of the ball, he will pose as an attractive pick for some NFL team.
Strengths
On the defensive line in 2017, McIntosh put up 52 total tackles and had 12.5 tackles for loss to go along with his 2.5 sacks- meaning ten of those tackles for loss came on run plays. This is a great example of McIntosh’s ability to push through the line. A great push off the snap, McIntosh then uses his agility to get around blockers and pursue the ball carrier. He uses both strength and speed to pursue the quarterback and/or runner.
Miami DT R.J. McIntosh is another defensive tackle that I’d take in the mid-rounds. It didn’t come that often where a DT flatbacked Quenton Nelson, but McIntosh did by cutting inside to his gap with a simple bull rush to push him back with ease and make a hit on the QB. pic.twitter.com/f1MOqPMg7y
— Gavino Borquez (@GavinoBorquez) April 20, 2018
What makes McIntosh a unique player is that he also had seven pass deflections in addition to his 52 tackles in 2017. This speaks well for his football IQ as he is able to read plays better than most, but also adjust to plays if he does not get the angle or push he needs. Due to this, McIntosh offers a lot of use for NFL teams to analyze.
Weaknesses
While it is great to have a good mix of speed and strength, it can also be a downfall if there is no dominating factor between the two. McIntosh will need to improve his overall strength if he wishes to compete the same with professional players
He will also need to work on his push up the middle. As noted, his initial push is often times effective, but will usually need his speed to get around the blocker. Because he has done that so easily in college, he may be in for a rude awakening at the pro level.
Next: NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete 7-round projections
Draft Expectations
McIntosh holds a lot of raw talent that NFL teams will look at in terms of player development and the hopes that they can mold him into the player they need him to be. He likely will not see his name called early on, but a mid-round look could turn into something for this Miami native.
Projection: Round 5