2019 NFL Draft: Top 150 draft prospects big board, surprise in top three
By Ian Cummings
No. 66-70
70. Clemson IDL Dexter Lawrence (IDL10)
Before the 2018 regular season, the Clemson defensive linemen were *the* storyline, and there was talk that they could have four first-round picks on their front unit. Clelin Ferrell and Chrisitan Wilkins still project as potential first-round picks, but Dexter Lawrence, along with project Austin Bryant, fell out of grace. Lawrence still gets some first-round hype, but Lawrence is a bit limited, from a role perspective. At 6-foot-4, 340 pounds, he projects very well as a pure nose tackle with solid run defending skills. As a pass rusher, however, he leaves something to be desired, and in the modern NFL, where versatility is coveted, that will move him down a bit.
69. Alabama EDGE Christian Miller (EDGE8)
Often mocked to the Redskins in the second round, Alabama’s Christian Miller checks plenty of boxes. He has the Crimson Tide pedigree, he possesses good length and solid bend, and he has some starting upside. But Miller doesn’t have great burst or functional strength, and his 6-foot-3, 240-pound frame can be rendered inert by longer tackles. If Miller can add strength and further refine his technique, then perhaps he can add to his modest athletic traits and earn a starting role. As of now, however, he’s a situational rusher with some valuable utility.
68. West Virginia QB Will Grier (QB5)
It’s easier to help an aggressive quarterback work backward into his comfort zone, and limit unnecessary risks, than it is to push the boundaries of a naturally timid, conservative quarterback. That’s the primary appeal of Will Grier, an uber-aggressive passer with an average arm, good athleticism, and solid accuracy in the short and intermediate ranges. Grier doesn’t have the upside to be a top-tier signal caller, but he has a decent floor and could entertain modest success as a starter, similar to fellow Big 12 product Andy Dalton.
67. Mississippi State S Johnathan Abram (S8)
Known for his hard-hitting style and staunch leadership qualities, Johnathan Abram comes downhill like a homing missile. He’s one of the best tackling defenders in the 2019 NFL Draft class, and while his lateral agility leaves something to be desired, Abram plays with enough passion and aggression to make a regular impact. His on-ball instincts aren’t great, and he’s not a top-tier athlete, which could limit him as a single high safety. But in the box, Abram is in his element. And in the right role, he could flourish at the NFL level.
66. Boise State QB Brett Rypien (QB4)
There’s something about the flashy measurables that lures teams to other quarterbacks, but while Brett Rypien doesn’t have the rocket arm or the west coast athleticism, he has almost everything else. Rypien doesn’t necessarily generate velocity with ease, but he’s an accurate thrower who can put plenty of zip on his passes, to precise points on the field. He’s a very quick processor, able to read from sideline to sideline in a matter of seconds, and his decision making is promising for his age. Rypien is a mid-round prospect who doesn’t wow the scouts, but could maintain a starting job if provided the opportunity, similar to Kirk Cousins or Dak Prescott.