Baylor defensive tackle Andrew Billings is one of the top d-line prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft, but how would he fit with the Minnesota Vikings?
With there already being ties to the Minnesota Vikings, it’s only logical to start the draft profile series with a name that should already be familiar to fans. Rumors are already circulating that if Baylor defensive tackle Andrew Billings is on the board when the Vikings are on the clock with the 23rd overall selection that the team will pull the trigger on the young run stuffer.
There are plenty of reasons to see the fit. He’s a dominating inside presence on defense that can rush the passer as well as clog up multiple running lanes. Using his power and low center of gravity, Billings excels when it comes to pushing offensive linemen around and being able to get by blockers.
Statistically, he was impressive at the college level for his three years at Baylor. He improved each year of play, finishing with 107 total tackles, 30 tackles for a loss, 8.5 sacks and 2.5 forced fumbles in 35 games played. He is the kind of player that opposing teams have to make special game plans for when they play because he can dominate one-on-one situations.
However, there are some negatives to Billings’ game. He lacks the prototypical height for a defensive tackle at the professional level and tends to lean into blocks relying on sheer power and leverage, which can make him susceptible to getting thrown off balance. But, he is a raw talent that can learn some other ways to win the battle in the trenches with a solid coaching staff.
Billings helped his case to be a top draft pick at the NFL combine, where he put up some exceptionally good numbers for a man of his size. Here are his numbers according to NFL.com:
Height: 6’1″
Andrew Billings compares to:
- CBS Sports: Bennie Logan, Eagles
- NFL.com: Chris Baker, Redskins
Fit for the Minnesota Vikings:
When you watch Andrew Billings on tape, you see a guy that would fit right in with the current Vikings squad. He’s a powerhouse in the middle that can contain as well as pass rush. With the way head coach Mike Zimmer likes to rotate players and have excellent defensive line depth, it makes sense.
My Take:
As much as I love what I see from Billings, this might be more of a luxury pick than an actual need. With Linval Joseph locking down the position where Billings would be playing, it doesn’t make much sense to pick a player at that position with the top pick. However, it would be hard to get upset hearing the Baylor defensive tackle’s name called on draft day because of the great talent he possesses.