NFL

2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting What Could Happen in the First Round

Joe Redemann  —  @TheIDPGuy Mar 3rd, 2017
Use your ← → (arrow) keys to browse the slideshow

22. Dolphins: Taco Charlton, Defensive End

Top Needs: DE, DT, ILB, OLB

The Miami Dolphins are on borrowed time with 35-year old defensive end Cameron Wake, and they were just middle-of-the-road (16th) in Adjusted Defensive Passing NEP per play and 4th-worst in Adjusted Defensive Rushing NEP per play with him there. Michigan defensive end Taco Charlton will come in to help that.

Charlton’s long 6’6”, 275-pound frame is aided in its pass-rush qualities by extremely long arms that he uses for great leverage. His quickness and flexibility in the trench help aid his push upfield, and his reach and tenacity in hand fighting make him a good bet to improve against the run -- though anchoring is an issue right now.

Charlton is raw as they come in terms of translating potential to production. This year was his first chance at a full-time starting role; he did pay off on that, by racking up 40 tackles, 13.5 stuffs, and 10.0 sacks in 2016. His upside is unquestionable as a classic rush end.

Prev Next