6 defensive tackles the Vikings could pick in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Jaylen Twyman (Pittsburgh)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 290 pounds
2019 Stats:
- 23 tackles
- 10.5 sacks
- 12.5 tackles for loss
If the Vikings are looking for some value on Day 2, then they would be wise to examine the capabilities of Jaylen Twyman. The former Pittsburgh star enjoyed a phenomenal 2019 campaign that invoked memories of another prospect from the same program that would be a tremendous asset for any organization to call upon.
Twyman has made no secret of his admiration for Aaron Donald, who came through Pitt before landing on the Los Angeles Rams on his way to becoming arguably the NFL’s best defensive player. The pair have worked together closely during the offseason and although reaching this level is ambitious for the incoming player, some similar traits are there for all to see.
One area where Twyman thrives is creating havoc in opposing backfields. This is something he was able to do at will when he last saw the field in a competitive environment, but opting out of the 2020 campaign due to COVID-19 health worries seems to have hurt his stock more than most.
Providing Twyman can brush up on his run support in the pros, someone is going to have a real player on their hands. The Vikings have some flexibility from the third round onwards, which is where the prospect is expected to come into the equation.