The 2022 NFL draft is nearly here! In fact, by the time you read this, it may have already begun. Regardless of where anyone is drafted, the following players are some of my favorite defensive linemen to have fantasy value in IDP (Individual Defensive Player) leagues.
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Let’s begin.
Aidan Hutchinson (DL – Michigan)
From a fantasy standpoint, there’s very little about Aiden Hutchinson that’s disagreeable. While he may no longer have the highest odds to be the first player taken in the draft, I have no problem ranking him as the top defensive linemen in rookie IDP drafts. The argument against him is pretty simple: his ceiling is lower than some of the competition, namely Kayvon Thibodeaux. That’s not really an issue in fantasy football. Consistency is more valuable than potential, especially with defensive linemen, who often take years to reach their assumed potential (looking at you, Marcus Davenport). Hutchinson is the highest graded defensive player in the draft, at least according to Next Gen Stats, and scouts consistently state that he’s a high-floor, year one starter who will positively influence both on and off the field. What this means is that Hutchinson is going to produce immediately. He’ll step in and deliver whether in Jacksonville, Detroit, or anywhere lucky enough to have him. He’s versatile enough to play in 4-3 or 3-4 schemes and able enough to set the edge and still get sacks. He may never be an All-Pro talent, but you’ll be glad he’s consistently good for your fantasy team.
Kayvon Thibodeaux (DL – Oregon)
Thibodeaux is also considered a “Year 1 Starter” by Next Gen Stats, but he arguably has the highest ceiling in the draft. Perhaps it’s all perception, but Thibodeaux has been moved all over the big board this draft season. He’s been touted as the best player available, and he’s been labeled a potential bust. Regardless of what you think, his raw potential truly does belong at the top of this list. Scouts have said a few things that really excite me about this guy: “Wicked closing kick to the quarterback,” “initial movements off the snap are fast and furious,” and “he’s fueled by solid internal drive.” He missed time with an ankle injury in his final season at Oregon, but he was still named an Associated Press All-American and tallied seven sacks in 11 games. His downside will come from his ability to learn (or not learn) the finer aspects of rushing the quarterback. He’s already got some pro-ready skills, but he’ll need to add a bit more to his game if he’s going to become a true sack artist. His long-term value will depend on where he lands, but he’s a player you should be excited to have on your roster.
Travon Walker (DL – Georgia)
I’m putting Walker third on this list because he’s currently being touted as the player who’s absolutely-definitely-no-doubt-about-it getting taken first overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. I actually think it would be worse for him to get taken first overall than where he really should go, which is not first overall. NextGen Stats has him graded as follows: “will become a good starter in two years.” His issues, per scouts, mostly surround his lacking ability as a rusher. He flashed his athletic upside at the Combine, but his track record still lacks production. He’ll likely be used as a run-stopper in the NFL, which limits his upside for fantasy football purposes. If he’s unable to put up reasonable sack totals, then he’ll fall short of expectations, which doesn’t usually bode well for anyone. Regarding fantasy football, I would rather take my shot on Hutchinson or Thibodeaux before considering Walker for my IDP lineups.
George Karlaftis (DL – Purdue)
Karlaftis is only 21 years old and reportedly may fall out of the first round. Speculation is king these days. According to Next Gen Stats, he’s got the same grade as Travon Walker: “Will become a good starter in two years.” At 21 years old, Karlaftis still has some growing to do, so I’m not keen on believing in his immediate value as an IDP stud. However, his upside is obvious. He was an Associated Press Third-Team All-American selection and was a Ted Hendricks Award finalist as one of the best defensive ends in the nation. He’s considered to have the right frame to be a potentially great player, but he also needs to add mass to that frame to dominate truly. If he can pack on some weight and still use his relentless motor, he’ll oddly resemble JJ Watt. Am I saying he’s got JJ Watt upside? Yes. No. Maybe? Let’s just say it’s possible but not probable. If you want him on your IDP roster, make sure you have a bench spot ready for him. He’ll need time before he’s ready to help your squad win.
Jermaine Johnson II (DL – Florida State)
Johnson is exciting to me, even more than Karlaftis or Walker. Johnson has had a legit journey to get to the NFL Draft (he was featured on Last Chance U) and has only had one full year with starting experience. That being said, his game tape is delicious. He’s not just a high-motor kind of guy; he’s the kind of guy that is naturally really good at football. Potentially, he could be the kind of game-wrecker that teams are starving for. He needs more experience and training, but he could eventually be the best defensive lineman in this draft. It’ll take time, but he graded higher on Next Gen Stats than Walker and Karlaftis, so he’s off to a decent start. Scouts note that he plays hard and fast and rarely stays blocked. Again, he’s a project, but he’s an ascending project.
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