2015 NFL Draft: Top 5 Defensive Ends with Predictions

Feb 20, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Mississippi State defensive lineman Preston Smith speaks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports, Mississippi State

5. Preston Smith, Mississippi State

With a 40-yard dash time of 4.74 at a man of his stature, it’s going to be very hard for a team to pass up Smith. He has long arms and huge hands as he has the making of an ideal pass rusher. He gives offensive linemen everything he’s got and he does not get pushed around. Smith was named a First Team All-SEC defensive end in 2014.

Smith doesn’t rank any higher than five because he is a work in progress. He isn’t a sure-fire player who can immediately start. He has tons of talent and could definitely contribute at some point. It’s going to take time for the coaches to develop him into a lethal pass rusher.

Prediction: Drafted by the New Orleans Saints

Next: 4. Alvin Dupree, Kentucky