49ersRus
04-17-2007, 03:25 PM
Link: http://nfl.com/draft/analysis/expert/brandt/dl
How important are defensive linemen? Over the past 10 years (1997-2006), we have had 20 selected in the top 10 picks of the draft. In comparison, over this same time period, 15 quarterback, 12 offensive linemen and 11 running backs have been selected in the top 10 picks. Since 1967 (40 drafts), 12 defensive linemen have been selected first overall; only the quarterback position with 15 has had more No. 1 overall picks.
The article then analysis the DL in this years draft.
How important are defensive linemen? Over the past 10 years (1997-2006), we have had 20 selected in the top 10 picks of the draft. In comparison, over this same time period, 15 quarterback, 12 offensive linemen and 11 running backs have been selected in the top 10 picks. Since 1967 (40 drafts), 12 defensive linemen have been selected first overall; only the quarterback position with 15 has had more No. 1 overall picks.
The article then analysis the DL in this years draft.