2015 NFL Draft: Day 2 Prospects Worth Reaching For

Jan 10, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Michael Bennett answers questions during Media day at Dallas Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Michael Bennett, Ohio State Buckeyes

Position: Defensive Tackle

Height & Weight: 6’2″ & 293 pounds

2014 Season Statistics: 41 total tackles, 24 solo, 14.0 for loss, 7.0 sacks, 3 fumbles forced, 3 passes defended

Michael Bennett of the Ohio State Buckeyes isn’t the sexiest pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He isn’t a goliath of a defensive lineman and he didn’t perform in physical drills at the 2015 Scouting Combine.

What Bennett has, however, is tough to teach: discipline, commitment, toughness and leadership.

Bennett had a prolific college career, helping Ohio State win the national championship this past season. He recorded 25.5 tackles for loss and 14.0 sacks over the past two years, which goes a long way towards establishing his value.

Bennett has a good burst coming off the line and uses his violent hands to get into the backfield to stuff the run and get after the quarterback.

He’ll also win you over with his personality.

Most importantly, Bennett will never have his effort questioned.

Both of Bennett’s parents were West Point graduates, which has set the tone for his football career. He gives his all and leads by example with his motor on high and his self-motivated physicality matching it.

In one man’s humble opinion, Bennett is this year’s defensive version of Travis Frederick.

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