2019 NFL Mock Draft: Defensive line dominates as quarterbacks fall

By Randy Gurzi | Jan 14, 2019

SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 07: Quinnen Williams #92 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts against the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi's Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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KNOXVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 22: Jachai Polite #99 of the Florida Gators gets past Ty Chandler #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter of the game between the Florida Gators and Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images) /

8. Detroit Lions: Jachai Polite, EDGE, Florida

It’s incredibly likely that head coach Matt Patricia will be in the market for a new edge rusher this season as Ezekiel Ansah will be a free agent. He played 2018 on the franchise tag, but injuries limited his time on the field and that’s been a common occurrence for him.

In order to replace his production, they go after Florida pass rusher Jachai Polite. He broke out this year due to his ability to get after quarterbacks, but the staff over at The Draft Network says he’s also impressive against the run and shows up in the backfield in that department as well.

"“Jachai Polite is being billed as a pass rush specialist, and while it’s true that is often how Florida deployed him, he has played against the run plenty this season and more than held his own. What Polite lacks as a point-of-attack powerhouse he makes up for with good technique, exceptional range and the ability to slip blocks and make plays behind the line of scrimmage.” — The Draft Network Staff"

Polite will need to add some bulk to make it work on the line in a 4-3 defense long-term, but he’s good enough to make impact plays right away.

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