#defensive-prospects

#defensive-prospects

The Commanders need an injection of youth on defense, and the way this draft has played out gives them a plethora of options. Bailey has dominated off the edge this season, earning a 93.5 PFF pass-rush grade and producing a 21.6% PFF pass-rush win rate. There will be questions about his size, but he's too good a pass rusher to fall out of the top 10.

A physical, instinctive safety with elite range and football IQ, Caleb Downs could become the leader Dallas has long lacked on the back end. The Ohio State standout diagnoses plays quickly, hits with authority, and brings the same kind of command to a defense that quarterbacks bring to an offense. He's the kind of player who instantly raises the standard for everyone around him - something the Cowboys have missed since Darren Woodson's prime years.

Texas' Colin Simmons ended last season as one of the nation's top young playmakers on defense. He led Texas in sacks (9), finished second in tackles for loss (14) and had some of his best games in the CFP. The former five-star recruit told me he wants to be more of a complete player, especially against the run. We have Anthony Hill Jr. at No. 2, but I wouldn't be surprised if two Texas defenders end up in the postseason top 10.