Nov 15, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (50)in action against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
With the departure of Terrance Knighton, the Denver Broncos are looking to add some depth to the nose tackle position. One player that could fill in that void is Grady Jarrett.
Grady Jarrett is projected to be selected somewhere in the third round. With the Broncos more than likely filling in voids on the offensive line with their first two draft picks, this would be the ideal round for the Broncos to start looking at defense. And with a nose tackle in Grady Jarrett who can penetrate a gap in the offensive line, why wouldn’t the Broncos draft him?
His explosiveness right off the snap can throw offensive linemen off guard. And his strength despite his size can allow him to push those linemen back without much effort. The way he can penetrate the offensive line benefits in both the run and pass defense. Grady Jarrett can stop the running back before he can get anywhere and he is proven to disrupt the quarterback as well.
Another great thing about Grady Jarrett is his durability. He has never missed a game due to an injury. Injuries to the defensive side of the ball have been somewhat of krypton to the Denver Broncos defense the past couple seasons, but it allowed players like Brandon Marshall emerge. If Grady Jarrett can be as durable at the pro level he could be a great defensive player.
The only issues I can see with him are his size and ability to bring the ball carrier down. His height is not ideal for swatting passes away and his arm length does help much either. Bringing down the ball carrier will come within time.
Despite some of his short comings, he would be a solid player for the Broncos to take a look at in the third round. Grady Jarrett has the skill set to penetrate the middle of the offensive line, which would be a great addition for the Broncos, who could be looking for answers at the nose tackle position.