The Atlanta Falcons selected DT/DE to begin Day 3 of the NFL Draft. Oregon native Brandon Dorlus was selected 109th overall in the fourth round. With a 6’3″ height and 283 pounds of muscle, Dorlus is a versatile player who can play in a 4-3 or 3-4 defensive scheme. His muscular build comes from a small frame, and he has very heavy hands. Following their original selection of Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, the Falcons have made a significant investment in the defensive line by selecting a third straight pick. Although Dorlus has played on the edge in the past, he might be a better match on the inside of that defensive line. If the team plans to deploy Dorlus as an edge rusher, his combine results (4.8 40 time, 1.68 10-yard split, 9’3 broad jump, 7.43 3-cone) don’t look as good. However, if the player is considered a defensive lineman, his results appear much better. Dorlus led the Ducks with 5.0 sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 8 pass breakups last season after leading the squad with 9.5 tackles for loss in 2022. He was selected to the First Team All-Pac 12 in both 2021 and 2023 (and the Second Team All-Pack 12 in 2022). He led all DTs with 134 QB pressures since 2021. In a perfect world, the Falcons would have another excellent interior defensive line pass rusher with this pick in what has suddenly turned into a very defensive line-heavy draft. This season, the defensive line battles at training camp and the preseason should be extremely intense. How do you feel about the Dorlus selection? Post your ideas in the discussion.
Leave a Reply