Jets 2019 NFL Draft Profile: DL Christian Wilkins

In this 2019 NFL Draft profile, we look at the strengths and weaknesses of defensive lineman Christian Wilkins out of Clemson University.

Christian Wilkins is considered a top defensive lineman in the 2019 NFL Draft, per NFL insiders. Wilkins has an NFL ready skill set and should do well as a dominant pass rusher in the league.

Many teams will want to fight for him, as there are many voids in that position across the NFL. He will make a huge impact early in his rookie season to any team that drafts him.

Wilkins’ height and build remind many scouts of defensive lineman Fletcher Cox. He enters the draft at 6’4″ and weighs 300 pounds.

Wilkins causes turnovers and dominates on the line of scrimmage. He is able to replicate the same impact as Cox with the way he plays his game and is definitely a game changer in the 2019 NFL Draft.

STRENGTHS

Wilkins has incredible size and speed that could cause havoc on any opposing quarterback. He has incredible speed at the point of attack and possesses great overall football instincts.

Wilkins has great first-step footwork in attacking the backfield and he causes many negative plays. He is also impressive with shedding multiple blocks and getting to the quarterback.

He shines the most when a tough challenge is brought upon him, and he comes up with the big stop for his defense more often than not. He is also a great leader as he is loud and holds players accountable for their mistakes.

Wilkins can play a variety of techniques in a 4-3 or 3-4 defensive scheme. He is able to clog the hole and cause problems for any running game as he causes headaches for opponents.

WEAKNESSES

When he is in full speed mode it is tough for him to slow down which is something he needs to fix at the next level. For him to fix this, he needs to let the game come to him and not go full speed all the time.

He needs to learn how to conserve his energy for the entire game and be dominant when it matters. At times he is tired and winded.

Wilkins has a tendency to make mental mistakes and receives unnecessary penalties. He needs to be able to learn how to adjust to each game and be on the dominating end of it.

He needs to not be lazy when he is making tackles as he has a tendency of doing that. Wilkins needs to play with a chip on his shoulder game after game.

JETS PREDICTION

Considering his size, speed, and traits, he will catch the attention of many NFL general managers. He could be a huge problem for many opposing offenses.

He will be inserted into any starting lineup since he is talented and ready to make a name for himself. He will need to be put in the right organization in order for him to be successful but make no mistake about it, Wilkins will be drafted mid-to-late first round or even potentially earlier in the first round.

He is definitely a first round player in the 2019 NFL Draft and could find a potential landing spot with the Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins, or Green Bay Packers.

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