2011 NFL Draft Preview : 3-4 Defensive Ends

Anymore the NFL is split between teams that run 4-3 defenses and teams that run 3-4 defenses.  Each defense has its own strengths and weaknesses and requires unique personnel.  A standout defensive end in 4-3 will not necessarily be a star 3-4 defensive end.  The 3-4 requires defensive ends to be slightly larger and better against the run than their 4-3 counterparts.

3-4 Defensive Ends

1. Marcell Dareus
3-4 defenses are hard to find in the collegiate ranks.  3-4 defenses that are run successfully are even more difficult to find.  But Nick Saban has managed to work wonders with his 3-4 defense during his short tenure at Alabama.  And Dareus has been integral to that success for the past two seasons.  His 6'3", 303 lbs frame creates incredible power which he uses to collapse the edge of the offensive line.  Dareus's strengths pertain to run stopping but he also manages to rush the passer with success.  Using quick moves and burst, Dareus closes on opposing quarterbacks in a relentless style.  While his stamina could be improved, Dareus will definitely find himself in top 10 contention for the upcoming draft.

(First he crushes Colt McCoy, and now he smashes Kirk Cousins.  Who's next?  Peyton Manning?)

2. Cameron Heyward
As the son of NFL great, Craig "Ironhead" Heyward, great things are expected from this former Ohio State defensive lineman.  The younger Heyward has been incredibly versatile throughout his collegiate career playing every position on the defensive line rotating between end and tackle on a regular basis.  Blessed with fantastic measurables at 6'5" and 288 lbs, Heyward explodes off the ball and violently engages opposing lineman quickly forcing them on their heels.  Aggressive hand moves and solid leverage help him shed blocks to crush opposing rushing attacks and relentlessly pursue quarterbacks.  Heyward has faced issues with inconsistency throughout his career but his incredible upside makes him a bona fide first round prospect.

(Heyward is not just a run stopper or a pass rusher.  He can play zone coverage too... or at least as well as B.J. Raji.)

3. J.J. Watt
In Wisconsin, Watt is synonymous with monster.  Playing defensive tackle his sophomore year and defensive end his junior year, Watt has proven his versatility across the defensive front.  Standing 6'6" and weighing 279 lbs, Watt is lethal combination of size and speed.  He is strong against the run and the pass using his quick burst to blow past offensive lineman and powerful hands to get unblocked.  Even when Watt doesn't reach his target, he can still disrupt plays by knocking down passes or funneling runs toward his teammates.  Watt does have issues when pursuing ball carriers in space due to lack of lateral movement but his non-stop motor guarantees his selection in the first round.

(J.J. Watt's constant pressure in the Ohio State backfield was integral to the Wisconsin's upset of the AP #1 team.)