2021 NFL Draft: Breaking down the top three defensive tackles

Daviyon Nixon, Iowa

Daviyon Nixon burst onto the scene with his monster breakout year in 2020 for the Hawkeyes. Iowa has been able to produce some highly touted defensive line prospects in recent history and Nixon continues that legacy. He has been able to become a big man that can create disruption against opposing offenses.

He is still young after turning 22 in December so that youth will also have him rising up NFL draft boards. This prospect is the perfect size for a 3-4 defensive end as he stands at 6’3 and 305 pounds. That will allow him to thrive in a three tech defense or even have the potential to slide inside for a 4-3 defensive scheme. The strong suit of this player would be in a 3-4 end role but he could possess the ability to play defensive tackle if need be.

The Iowa product could need some filling out still but with his youth, that could be just a matter of time. This player could become a force to deal with in the NFL when he reaches his true potential. He could line up at Nose Tackle when called for but the defensive end spot will be his best utilization going forward. It seems more likely that Nixon will be going sometime during day two of the draft and that will be a great selection for any team looking for help along their defensive front.