Back to the NFL Newsfeed

2016 NFL Draft: Immediate Roles for Top Defensive Linemen

With the NFL draft just over a month away, you're probably already familiar with the biggest names.

When it comes to matching a player with your team's biggest needs, however, it takes a lot more than simply knowing the top guys at each position, especially at a complex position such as the defensive line.

Scheme plays a significant role in how a team puts together its draft board.

Here's a breakdown of 10 of the most highly touted defensive linemen in terms of what role they can play at the next level.

Since we're specifically looking at defensive linemen, the focus will be on each prospect's role as a down-lineman, with the understanding that some of these prospects may also draw consideration from teams as 3-4 linebackers.