2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trevor Lawrence tank pays off for Jaguars, Trey Lance to Raiders

Throughout his college career with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, defensive end Carlos Basham Jr. has consistently improved and has now become one of the most dominant players in the ACC at the position. That’s a testament to his work ethic and mentality but also to the level of prospect that he’s become.

After registering no sacks and just two tackles for loss in limited work as a freshman, Basham flashed in a bigger role in the 2018 season as he put up 4.5 sacks and 11.0 tackles for loss. He upped that production even more this past year as the 6-5, 275-pounder dominated with 10.0 sacks, 18 tackles for loss and 57 total tackles.

Basham isn’t the most explosive player and won’t be mistaken for a speed rusher. However, he has enough juice to go with his motor, technical refinement and power off the edge to make him an enticing player in the right type of NFL system, especially if keeps improving further.

His blue-collar style seems to fit perfectly with the Minnesota Vikings, who have a need on the edge. With Everson Griffen leaving this offseason, the team is fine enough up front but they could use an infusion of talent. Basham would provide that and give them a steadier future in the trenches, which is where the Vikings like to dominate on defense.