FARRELL'S TOP FIVE DEFENSIVE ENDS
1. Myles Garrett, Texas A&M
2. Solomon Thomas, Stanford
3. Derek Barnett, Tennessee
4. Charles Harris, Missouri
5. Takkarist McKinley, UCLA
WHY GARRETT IS NO. 1
The length, quickness and first step separate him from the rest and make him potentially an elite 4-3 edge rusher, something obviously coveted in the NFL. Others on this list are perhaps more versatile in some ways and stronger against the run, but no one can match Garrett’s pass rushing ability. Solomon Thomas is excellent off contact, Derek Barnett does a great job holding the edge and using power to get after the passer and Charles Harris is so athletic he could stand up or play with his hand down. Takkarist McKinley could be the freakiest athlete of the group but is raw at this stage. Keep an eye out for him to emerge after a year or two.
Farrell’s NFL comparison: Julius Peppers, Carolina Panthers
