Associated Press
Virginia defensive end Chris Long is known for his 'high motor.'
Mike Mayock's take on the defensive crop
NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock breaks down the defensive players available at each position for the Daily News in advance of the April 26-27 NFL draft. A Haverford School product, Mayock played at Boston College and was a defensive back in the NFL before beginning his broadcast career. Mayock offered his analysis to Daily News pro football writer Paul Domowitch.
Defensive end
The Best
Chris Long, Virginia
6-3, 272
40 time: 4.75
Projected round: 1
Mayock: "He's got the best motor I've ever seen on a defensive lineman. He's a freak athletically. I like him as a 3-4 rush linebacker, but you could literally line him up at any [3-4] position. It gives whoever drafts him ultimate scheme versatility. The defensive coordinator that ends up with this kid is not going to be constrained by anything but his own imagination.''
The Riser
Cliff Avril, Purdue
6-3, 253
40 time: 4.51
Projected round: 2
Mayock: "He's another one of those situational pass-rush guys that Purdue seems to crank out. He's stronger than people think. Did 27 reps at 225 [bench press]. Runs in the 4.5s. He's one of those kids who has the ability to get to the quarterback. In the NFL, that's money. I don't think he gets out of the second round because of his measurables and his production and what people think he can be.''
The Sleeper
Alex Hall, St. Augustine (N.C.)
6-4 3/4, 238
40 time: 4.71
Projected round: 6-7
Mayock: "Has 38 career sacks. Only weighs 240, but has the frame to go up to 270 to 275. He's a smart, tough kid who could either be a defensive end if you want to put the weight on him, but is also athletic enough to stand up and play outside linebacker.''
