Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Darrell Taylor (Tennessee) - 2020 NFL Draft Pick #48 by SEA

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Darrell Taylor - 2020 NFL Draft

Position: Defensive End
College: University of Tennessee

Overview

Darrell Taylor was widely regarded as one of the top edge rushers in the 2020 NFL Draft. He showcased a combination of size, speed, and athleticism during his college career, making him an attractive prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their pass rush.

Strengths

• Explosive First Step: Taylor possesses a quick first step that allows him to gain leverage against offensive tackles.
• Versatility: He has the ability to play both defensive end positions and can stand up as an outside linebacker in certain schemes.
• Pass Rush Ability: Taylor demonstrated a knack for getting to the quarterback, evidenced by his impressive sack totals during his college career.
• Motor: He consistently plays with a high motor, showing determination and effort on every snap.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistent Technique: At times, Taylor relied on athleticism over refined technique, which could lead to struggles against more polished offensive linemen in the NFL.
• Run Defense: While he has potential, there were concerns about his ability to hold up against the run and disengage from blockers effectively.
• Injury History: Taylor dealt with some injuries during his college career, which could raise red flags for teams regarding his durability.

Overall Assessment

Darrell Taylor was seen as a high-upside prospect with the potential to develop into a starting defensive end in the NFL. His explosiveness and pass-rushing ability made him a coveted player in the draft, but teams needed to account for his areas of improvement, particularly in run defense and technique. If he could refine his skills, he had the potential to make a significant impact on an NFL defense.