Cleveland Browns 2019 NFL Draft Prospects: Defensive Tackles
By Shane Carter
Kingsley Keke, Texas A&M
Texas A&M hasn’t really been known for defense in a long time. What they’ve become known for is producing atleast one first round talent per draft for about a decade. Kingsley Keke is probably not a first round talent, but for a team looking to close the running lanes, he’s just what’s needed.
Kingsley Keke has his best season in 2018, garnering 11 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks, with his most notable performance coming in a win vs. Kentucky (two sacks, two tackles for loss). While mostly used outside, his size (6-4 305 lbs) gives him the flexibility to play either the 3-technique or the nose tackle in the Browns 4-3 system.
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Keke might not be the answer to the tackle position opposite Larry Ogunjobi, but he’d provide an upgrade at depth, which the Browns sorely need. Who knows? Give him a season or two and he could develop into a solid starter.
Dontavius Russell, Auburn
Dontavius Russell is the definition of a run stuffer. At a whopping 320 lbs, Russell gives up nothing to the backfield without a fight. Truthfully, opposing offenses would rather run away from Russell, knowing that he won’t allow their running back to get behind them.
His Auburn teammate, Derrick Brown, is probably going to get more attention. He’s 6-5 and 325 lbs and was just as effective as Russell was at stopping the run. However, Russell was the tone setter. He was the anchor for this Tiger defense and is probably going to get overlooked when he should be a headliner for atleast day 2 worthy prospects.
The Browns need depth and skill at the tackle position and Russell gives you plenty of size and athleticism to go along one of the most talented young defensive lines in the league. If he falls in the draft, keep his name in your memory banks.