2011 Denver Broncos Draft Cameos: Phil Taylor

Nose Tackle - Phil Taylor, Baylor

Height: 6'3"
Weight: 337
40yd: 5.14

Interest Level:

Private Workout: Yes
Private Visit to Team Facility: No
Attended Proday: Yes
Other: -

Quick Take:

Block eater with rare power to bang an OL around. Not a penetrator, and doesn't split the double team, so likely a 2 down only player in a 4-3. Was a red flag player at Penn State with weight and motivation issues, but seems to have that behind him, and is playing about 30lbs lighter, which has significantly affected his quickness. Just beginning to scratch the surface of what he can accomplish, and may develop some coveted penetration ability given time, as he has the power to really push a block.

Where He Goes in the Draft:

Bottom of first round

What is Denver's Interest In Him?

Low.

You have to scout all the NTs, because as we know from recent experience with the 3-4, when teams are desperate for a nose, they are really desperate. Once a team establishes that Taylor has put his Penn State days behind him, they should feel comfortable moving up to get him if need be, but don't expect that to have anything to do with the Broncos come draft day.

[Note: All players in the table are ranked by overall grade within their round grouping, however, the round groupings are based on where this player will likely be drafted based on where teams are currently selecting in the draft. Therefore a player is ranked within a group by his level of ability, but players in nearby groupings may have higher or lower actual grades, despite being in a different group. Confusing enough for you? --Styg]