Washington Redskins Draft Profiles: Danny Shelton, NT

Danny Shelton

Nose Tackle

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 343 lbs

Washington

Strengths: Size, size, and more size.  The man is colossal.  I'd be surprised if two OL could consistently move him, much less one.  He's about as wide as they come and has big strong legs.  Though he's great at anchoring and absorbing blockers without being moved off his spot (even against double-teams), Shelton possesses the ability to split double-teams and get into the backfield.  He even blocked three kicks!

He's super powerful like a bear and simply repeatedly moves C's into QB's laps.  When a ball carrier comes near him, even while he's blocked, he just seems to have a knack for getting off the block just enough, and just in time, to bring the ball carrier down.  He consistently gives great effort, especially for a man of his size.

He's one of the stronger, if not the strongest man in this class.  He's shown the ability to bring down ball carriers with one arm while being blocked.  While pass rushing isn't his strong suit, he has some ability there, too.

He played in every game of his collegiate career (three-year starter) and has no known injuries.  He's also very smart and was an Academic All-American this past year (Washington's first since '91).

Weaknesses: Again, not the best pass rusher.  He lacks pass rushing moves and basically is only effective in that department with the bull-rush.

As he gets more and more tired throughout a game, his leverage starts to decline.  He's also susceptible to cut blocks.

One last thing is that he'll obviously need to monitor his weight very closely.  He's great at 343 right now, but a man that size can't afford to really put on more weight.  If he gets to 350+, his effectiveness could drop off a cliff.

Bottom Line: He's a HS state champion shot-putting mammoth.  He compares very favorably to Vince Wilfork with his sheer thickness and power.  Probably one of the top two DL in this draft, especially against the run, who lacks a little bit in the pass rushing department.

Projected Round: 1

Team He Fits Best On: Bears, Giants, Browns, Saints, Dolphins