2018 Raiders Draft Prospect: DL Taven Bryan

2018 Raiders Prospect Profile

Name: Taven Bryan

Position: DT/DE

School: University of Florida

Height: 6’4”

Weight: 295 pounds

Round Projection: 2-3

Pass Rush

Taven Bryan is a talented, but raw, pass rusher. Playing both defensive tackle and end this past season for the Gators, Bryan had 4.0 sacks, six tackles for loss in 2017. Bryan displays strong and fast hands, which is one of his strong qualities as a rusher. Unfortunately, the repertoire of pass rushing moves is slim. Bryan will need some work at the next level.

 

Run Stuff

Bryan may need to balk up some to play the nose position, but he offers great size for a run stuffing defensive tackle. The “Wyoming Wild Man” biggest strength against the run could be his versatility on the line. However, the football instincts are not quite there yet, as Bryan was washed away in traffic and was out of position in some games. However, Bryan’s relentless pursuit to the ball and willingness to learn will speed up his learning curve.

 

Tackling

Due to his strength and great lateral movement, Bryan is a solid tackler. He uses his hands to get off blocks and gets up field fast. Not many ball carriers can break through the grasp of Bryan.

 

Speed/Athleticism/Strength

Bryan is extremely athletic and has excellent burst off the line. The former three-star recruit has solid lower/upper body strength and a great motor in the middle. As mentioned , Bryan is a raw prospect but does display smooth feet.

 

Raiders Fit

During the last few drafts, Reggie McKenzie has tried his “experiment” picks. From Mario Edwards to Obi Melifonwu, the jury is still out on Melifonwu because of injuries last season; Bryan would possess the same type of challenge for the new coaching staff. Additionally, what Bryan can do is play multiple positions for new Defensive Coordinator Paul Guenther. Nevertheless, because it could take some time for the former Florida Gator to learn the ins and outs of the NFL, his impact for the Raiders could be later in the season. With that said, this is why Oakland should target him in the third round, where his value fits the draft slot.