Most of the best action in Week 9 of college football occurred in the trenches. Players around the nation dominated offensive lines, and here are some who rose to the top tier of Defensive NFL Draft Risers.
Week 9’s Defensive NFL Draft Risers Dominated By The Trenches
EDGE Kaimon Rucker, UNC
Kaimon Rucker forced his way into this week’s PFF National Team with a three-sack, one-interception performance against Virginia. Tacking on eight tackles and seven pressures, too, his 93.6 PFF Defense Grade surely garnered some attention from NFL scouts. Rucker missed most of the season with a knee injury, but this week, he finally put together a game that paralleled his 2023 form.
His limited size and frequent lapses in coverage were almost unnoticeable this week against the Cavaliers. His skillset in the pass-rushing game includes a hefty sum of violent moves and accelerated attacks. If the fifth-year defender can continue looking as healthy and assertive as he did this week, the NFL Draft media could return to praising his name.
Potential Team Fit: Detroit Lions
DL Yahya Black, Iowa
Yahya Black is an ideal example of “stats don’t show everything”. The Hawkeyes’ interior defensive lineman only logged three tackles against Northwestern but was an absolute monster in the run game. The 6’5” 317-pound senior seemed to close every potential running lane the Wildcats offense attempted to open, helping hold them to just 43 rushing yards.
With similar players, such as former Western Kentucky DL Brodric Martin, being drafted much higher because of their run-stopping abilities, Black could ascend into a very sought-after prospect. Considering what he’s asked of, his game is already polished and could break into Day 2 come draft night.
Potential Team Fit: Pittsburgh Steelers
LB David Walker, Central Arkansas
Forcing three fumbles in a single contest is a feat accomplished by very few, but UCA linebacker David Walker made it look easy. The FCS star has been a problem for opposing offenses this season and continued that this week. His three FFs were paired with three tackles for loss and a half-sack in an overpowering effort
Garnering the attention of Reese’s Senior Bowl scouts, many have predicted Walker as the first FCS player selected next year. His effort, motor, and overall menacing play style have been showing up all season. A strong next few months could cause a team to take a chance on him in the middle rounds.
Potential Team Fit: Chicago Bears
EDGE Derrick Moore, Michigan
Derrick Moore’s 43% Pass Rush Win Rate led all collegiate players in Week 9, and it showed on tape. The highest-graded player on the Michigan defense was on a tear this week against Michigan State. He was constantly in the Spartans backfield and looked downright unblockable at times. His power was on full display and overwhelmed just about every lineman MSU threw at him.
It’s no secret that Moore has a wealth of upside as a pass rusher and could become a key piece on an NFL defense. As it stands, his projection hovers around mid-late Day 3, but that could quickly change. His talent has begun bleeding into his on-field performance, and his draft stock could soon be considerably boosted.
Potential Team Fit: Indianapolis Colts
Main Image: Geoff Burke – USA Today Sports
