Defensive Tackle Draft Crushes
Keeanu Benton – Wisconsin – 6’4″ – 309 lbs – 33 7/8″ arms – 5.08 forty
The more I’ve watched Keeanu Benton, the more convinced I am that he’s going to be one of the best all-around defensive tackles from this draft class. Benton is a physical force in the middle of a defensive line. He was best known as a run-stopper in college, but he has flashed enough athleticism to be a three-down player if given the chance. The Chiefs are still thin at defensive tackle and Benton would be able to be a staple of the rotation from day one. He would also offer them the versatility to replace Derrick Nnadi as the primary run-stopper and/or line up next to Chris Jones to push the pocket on passing downs.
Siaki Ika – Baylor – 6’3″ – 335 lbs – 32 3/8″ arms – 5.39 forty
If you want a true NFL nose tackle, Siaki Ika definitely fits the mold. He’s a massive man with the power and build to clog up the run game. However, Ika has also shown an impressive burst up the middle to disrupt the passing game as well. I wish his arms were a little longer, but I came away a big fan after watching his tape. His build and play style have brought comparisons to Vita Vea and I can definitely see that in his college tape. If the Chiefs think they can get him to reach that kind of ceiling where he’s not just a nose tackle then he might be worth a 2nd round pick.
Siaki Ika might not have tested well, but he's a plug-and-play NT. who will improve a team's run defense on day 1. Stout, strong, and nimble feet pic.twitter.com/AOPWHWyeV8
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) April 23, 2023
Brodric Martin – Western Kentucky – 6’5″ – 330 lbs – 35″ arms – 5.34 forty
Dawand Jones, Darnell Washington, Brodric Martin…what can I say, I’m apparently a sucker for huge draft prospects. Martin is raw from a technique standpoint and I don’t think his conditioning could hold up as an every-down player, but his size makes him impossible to move despite his atypical height for a nose tackle. He also shows surprising quickness for someone his size. If the Chiefs don’t take a defensive tackle earlier and want someone who can help play some reps vs the run, Martin would be a great late pick.
Finally, let’s look at a few defensive backs.