2019 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks rising in first round of NFL Draft
By Phil Poling
. Defensive Line. Clemson Tigers. Dexter Lawrence. 18. player. 60
The Clemson Tigers pump yet another defensive lineman into the NFL when the Vikings make Dexter Lawrence their pick at No. 18. At 6-foot-4 and 342 pounds, Lawrence possesses the elite size needed to compete in the trenches in the NFL.
The Vikings don’t have a gaping need along their defensive front, but Lawrence’s upside is too high to pass up in the late teens. He’s athletic enough to beat 1-on-1 blocks, but powerful enough to eat multiple blocks while his teammates make plays.
Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks already roam sideline-to-sideline making plays, but pitting a block-magnet like Lawrence in front of them would elevate their defense to new heights.
Lawrence’s most productive collegiate season came as a freshman, causing some to question if it was a fluke. But just like speed, you can’t teach size. And Lawrence has lots of it.