NFL Mock Draft 2020: Way-too-early look at projected first round
The Lions made a trade for Damon Harrison, and he should provide a nice boost as a short-term option, but he’s 30-years-old and he only has two years left on his current contract. That could put them in the market for a interior defensive linemen next year, and Auburn’s Derrick Brown might also represent the best player available at this stage.
Brown unexpectedly returned to Auburn for his senior season after being projected as a first round pick. He could have been selected in the top half of the first round this year, but instead decided to return for one final year in college. Unless someone else bursts onto the scene next year, Brown should be the top defensive tackle in this class.
Brown has been productive from day one since stepping on to Auburn’s campus. He was a second-team All-SEC performer last season, racking up 10.5 tackles-for-loss and 4.5 sacks. He’s not likely to be a great pass rusher from the interior, but Brown will immediately provide a boost as run defender.
He occupies a lot of space and is strong as an ox. His bull rush is devastating and he uses it to collapse the pocket on top of the quarterback. Brown is a dream defensive tackle for edge rushers because he requires so much attention, allowing edge players the opportunity to go one-on-one.
Brown’s return is a big reason for optimism for Auburn in 2019.