4. Yannick Ngakoue, Maryland
Experience: Junior
Height/Weight: 6-2/252
Projected Round: 4th
2015 Stats: 37 tackles; 13.5 sacks (Maryland record and tied for second in country); 14.5 tackles for loss, 7 quarterback hurries
Yannick Ngakoue comes out of Maryland as one of the most dominant pass rushers in the country, at least in the collegiate game.
There is no denying his incredibly impressive stats, but many scouts wonder if he is just too one dimensional for the NFL game as just a pass rusher. Because of this concern, Ngakoue will most likely be a mid-round pick, but could have more value to the Broncos than most other teams.
Since coach Phillip’s 3-4 defense asks the outside linebackers to primarily rush the passer, Ngakoue’s superb pass rushing skills could fit in very well into this defense. Initially, Ngakoue could rotate with Ray and Barrett on early passing down situations, providing even more rest for Miller and Ware.
Ngakoue is able to get up field quickly, use his balance and quickness to turn the corner fast and read the snap perfectly at times. However, once a lineman gets a hold of him, it is difficult for him to escape, which is what makes him a liability in the run game as well.
In order for him to develop in the NFL, Ngakoue needs to become stronger and develop more moves, both in the run defense and rushing the passer, but there would be no better place for him to learn and develop than with coach Phillips, Miller and Ware.
