While the Dallas Cowboys will expend most of their 2017 NFL Draft capital on the edges of the defense, focusing on both cornerback and defensive end, there is some expectation that another defensive tackle could be added in the later rounds.
Sure, defensive tackle isn’t necessarily a need during this offseason, but the Cowboys may fall in love with a “Marinelli” guy on the interior. One defensive tackle from this year’s class who seems to fit that bill is Auburn’s Montravius Adams.
Adams, who started 13 games in 2016, had a productive year, finishing with 44 tackles, 8.5 for loss, and 4.5 sacks. But while his numbers and measurables looked impressive, Adams’ process on tape was not nearly as good.
In my draft work over at Slant Sports, I recently posted a scouting report of Montravius Adams, concluding with giving him a late third round grade.
When he wins, he wins this size, strength, and power. Pure brute power. He has a bulky lower body as well, helping him stalemate double teams and power through on bull rushes. Adams is also rather quick for his size. He normally plays with a good first step, and has the ability to explode through gaps, especially against slower offensive linemen.
Adams most impressed me with his power, athleticism, and effort. For his size, he possesses excellent athletic ability and is able to move laterally to make tackles. He also chased down many plays from behind, and kept his nose around the ball as much as possible.
There are many problems with Adams’ game, however, starting with his block awareness. He also tends to play out of control at times, and struggled fighting against double teams.
Too often Adams exhibits the cardinal sins of defensive line prospects; he loses his balance, and he plays with his head down.
I have seen mock drafts with Montravius Adams as high as the late first round. To me, that is unbelievable, as I have him going in the third at the earliest. I do think, though, that with his power, strength, athleticism, and effort that Adams has a chance to make it in this league.
However, he must fix his awareness, and some of the technical issues which plagued him at Auburn. In time, he could end up being a solid value pick on Day Three of the 2017 NFL Draft.
I’m not convinced, however, that it is the Cowboys who should be making that pick.
