Three Tigers listed on McShay's Top 13 draft prospects for 2019

Tony Crumpton · Assoc. Editor · Tuesday, December 04 2018

ESPN's draft analyst Todd McShay released his 2019 Top 32 prospects Tuesday and had three Clemson defensive linemen in the top 13 overall choices.

Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence was rated No. 7 overall (previously 7), grade of 93, and the No. 3 rated DT behind only Houston's Ed Oliver (2) and Alabama's Quinnen Williams (6).

"Lawrence has remarkable agility and athleticism for his size, giving him great range for a run defender," McShay said. "He needs to be better about pad level, but single blockers can't move him at all. His power is overwhelming, and he looks more fluid this season after dealing with injury in 2017. He recorded 7.5 TFL on one of the best lines in the country, and there's a lot of talent here."

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Defensive end Clelin Ferrell was chosen No. 11 overall (previously 11) and third highest-rated DE with a grade of 91.

"Ferrell has very good, if not elite, physical tools. He grades out as an every-down NFL starter, though he could be used as a 3-4 outside linebacker or a 4-3 defensive end," McShay said. "His hands aren't overly violent at the line, but they are quick and active. Through 13 games, his quick first step helped him to 17.5 TFL and 10.5 sacks (eighth in the nation)."

Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins was rated No. 13 overall (previously 13), grade of 91, and the No. 5 rated defensive tackle.

"At his best in a 3-technique role, Wilkins is scheme-versatile and has experience playing inside and outside -- and he wreaks havoc either way," McShay said. "He has great foot speed, and when he doesn't get home, he gets his hands in passing lanes. He brings a high motor and excellent awareness to a talented Clemson defensive line. Well-liked and a leader in the locker room, Wilkins projects as a three-down starter. With Clemson this season, he had 13 TFL, five sacks, a forced fumble ... and a pair of rushing touchdowns."