Rubbing the Rock
Fansided

Clemson Tigers Draft Profile: Carlos Watkins

By Anthony Messenger

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Carlos Watkins (94) celebrates a play as Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) lays on the field during the first quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Carlos Watkins (94) celebrates a play as Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) lays on the field during the first quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

With the 2017 NFL draft on the horizon, we are going to be analyzing each of the Clemson Tigers as they go through the draft process. Today we will be discussing Carlos Watkins.

Related Story: Clemson Tigers Draft Profile: Jordan Leggett

Carlos Watkins (DT) Mooresboro, North Carolina:

Class: Redshirt Senior

Height: 6’3 ft

Weight: 305 lbs

Best Attributes:

More from Clemson Tigers in the NFL

Carlos Watkins came on strong during the ladder half of his career at Clemson. Watkins was buried on the depth chart early in his career behind the likes of Grady Jarrett and D.J. Reader. During his senior season, Watkins was nearly unblock-able recording 82 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks.

Carlos Watkins best attribute is his first step. Watkins explodes off of the football, which causes problems for interior offensive lineman. For Watkins to lead Clemson in sacks as an interior defensive line, is a testament to his short area power and explosion.

Expectations:

Of the interior defensive lineman that have gone on to the NFL under Dabo Swinney, I believe that Carlos Watkins is the most physically gifted. D.J. Reader and Grady Jarrett are proving to be viable starters in the NFL, however, they do not have the natural size that Carlos Watkins has. Watkins was also much more productive during his time at Clemson than Reader and Jarrett.

I expect Watkins to impress scouts with his strength and motor during the field drills at the combine. At the moment, I believe Watkins is teetering between the first and second round. Either way, Watkins is going to make some NFL franchise happy on draft night. I expect Watkins to contribute from day one in the NFL.

Home/Clemson Tigers in the NFL