2015 NFL Draft: Top 5 Names You Didn’t Know

Jan 22, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad defensive end Za

5. Za’Darius Smith, OLB (Kentucky)

There is so much buzz about the University of Kentucky’s Alvin Dupree, that to most people, Smith is just an afterthought. Smith was a very impressive athlete in his own right as a Wild Cat.

The 6-4 273 pound Smith had 4.5 sacks in the 2014 season. He has the length and power to be more than a handful off the edge. He is an aggressive player with a really high motor.

Smith may not have the freakish explosion of Dupree, but he has similar physical attributes that make him appealing to the NFL. He is a good athlete, who quite frankly could bully some offensive tackles at the next level.

In the 3rd round, Smith is a sensational value. He is a safe pick because he has the physical tools to be a good player right away. He may not dominate off the edge as Dupree likely will, but Smith is a very good player.

Next: 4. Durrell Eskridge, FS (Syracuse)