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2016 NFL Draft Profile: Robert Nkemdiche, DT Ole Miss

By Chris Schisler

Sep 13, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (5) steps up to the line during the game against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (5) steps up to the line during the game against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports /
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Robert Nkemdiche is perhaps the most intriguing defensive lineman in the 2016 NFL Draft. The defensive tackle from Ole Miss could perhaps be a top-10 pick. Because his skill-set is something that the Ravens have always valued, he is obviously on the radar of the Baltimore Ravens. How good is Nkemdiche and can the Ravens justify taking him with the sixth overall pick?

Let’s start by breaking down the game of Nkemdiche. Nkemdiche is the perfect blend of power, quick feet and athletic ability. Nkemdiche is a muscular 6’4″ 296 pound man with long arms and powerful legs. While he does most of his work in the trenches he does have some pass rushing ability.

Nkemdiche made impact plays that don’t always count statistically. He only had three sacks in his junior season at Ole Miss. He is a space eater who can blow up the opposing rushing attack. He even has ball skills, he had a Ngata reminiscent interception in his collegiate career where he tipped the ball in the air and came down with the catch.

Strengths:

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  • Long and solid frame allows him to keep separation and pull offensive linemen out of his way
  • Never gives up on a play, fights off blocks really well
  • Great tackler, even if it is sometimes unconventional
  • Explosive first step
  • Quickness interior offensive linemen aren’t used to using
  • Exceptional strength and great bull rush
  • Light on his feet, quick movement, powerful push all at the same time

Concerns:

  • Arrested for marijuana possession. Teams can choose to make this a red flag if they wish, but it seems like a minor offense in this day and age. Seems like a crazy night gone wrong kind of thing.
  • Could be a bit bulkier, very linear build

Should The Ravens Consider Drafting Him?

I would say that the Ravens are stacked on the defensive line. Brandon Williams is one of the best defensive tackles in football. Timmy Jernigan still shows unreal potential to be a great defensive end. Carl Davis and Brent Urban look like strong players as well. The Ravens have many needs that surpass Nkemdiche’s defensive tackle position.

Next: NFL Draft: Dream Scenario For Ravens

Nkemdiche is worth a high draft pick. He is the kind of player that the Ravens love, a strong but quick defensive lineman with explosive attributes. The Ravens have always preached a “Best Player Available” mantra but in this case I don’t think it matters. The Ravens cannot justify taking Nkemdiche despite his top-10 draft value.

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