Spring Break
Curry headlines list of top defensive players
Sean Labar
Issue date: 4/2/09 Section: Sports
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This guy is large and certainly in charge. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing an incredible 325 pounds, Raji has the ability to fill a gap, especially to block the running attack. Most would think that a player of his size would lack the speed of most defensive linemen, but Raji is quite versatile, making him the best DT in the draft. Buffalo could use some bulk on their defense and I think Raji might be the perfect fit for them.
4.Rey Maualuga - Linebacker, USC
The former Trojan is guaranteed to succeed in the pros, making his draft position that much higher. Maualuga has a Ray Lewis-like mentality and uses his adrenaline and emotion to crush quarterbacks, running backs and anyone who dare get in his path. A team like Denver or Cincinnati could use a player of this caliber. I see Maualuga being an instant star in the NFL and a possible candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
3. Malcolm Jenkins - CB, Ohio State
Jenkins is hands down the best defensive back going into the draft. Some see him making the transition to the safety position if called upon. Jenkins had the opportunity to head into the NFL last year but took an extra season with the Buckeyes to polish up his game. I like that he waited and think that it will pay huge dividends as he signs with an NFL franchise. Green Bay could certainly use a talented corner like Jenkins with both of its current corner backs being over the age of 32 and injury prone. Malcolm Jenkins is guaranteed to do big things in the NFL and will easily make his way on to lists with Champ Bailey and Ronde Barber.
2. Brian Orakpo - Defensive End/Linebacker, Texas
Orakpo is simply built like a horse and has the strength to dominate the defensive end position. At the 2009 NFL combine, Orakpo caught the eyes of several scouts as he bench pressed 225 pounds 31 times. Orakpo is 6-foot-3, weighing 265 pounds and reminds me most of the Panthers' Julius Peppers. I think this guy will be a major impact in the pros and I expect him to be the second defensive player drafted.
1. Aaron Curry - Linebacker, Wake Forest
This man is an absolute beast and is by far the most talented defensive player in the class. Coming from the ACC, a conference struggling to compete with the other elites, Curry will finally play up to his skill level in the NFL. Curry stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 245 pounds. He is extremely agile and has a knack for finding the ball, similar to a free safety. I would compare Curry to the Packers' A.J. Hawk or Baltimore's Terrell Suggs. In saying that, Curry brings a unique ability to get to the quarterback and create havoc for opposing offenses. I like him going to the Chiefs with the No. 3 pick or the Browns with the No. 5 pick. Wherever he goes, this former Demon Deacon will be sure to make his name known on the professional level.
This writer can be contacted at sports@theeastcarolinian.com.
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