2021 IDP Redraft Rankings – Defensive Tackles

2. DeForest Buckner DT – IND (14), -1 vs. ECR
Since entering the league in 2016, Bucker has been one of the game’s top run-defending interior linemen. He elevated himself into the DL1 tier conversation with a 12-sack 2018 season and has averaged 8.5 sacks/season the last two years to reinforce that belief. There’s some concern that the loss of Denico Autry and Justin Houston will allow teams to focus more attention on Buckner which could hurt his pass-rushing stats but Kemoko Turay has proven an effective pass-rusher in limited snaps and could draw more defensive focus than many expect. The addition of 21st overall pick Kwity Paye should also help keep offenses honest.

3. Quinnen Williams DT – NYJ (6), +2 vs. ECR (TARGET)
Williams, the third overall pick in the 2019 draft, took a big step forward in his development in year two as he increased his sack totals from 2.5 to seven and he essentially doubled his tackle production. This is more impressive when you consider the Jets played from behind the vast majority of the time last year and there weren’t a ton of pass-rushing opportunities to be had. He’s likely to see more of those types of opps this year and another bump in production.

4. Chris Jones DT – KC (12), +6 vs. ECR (TARGET)
The Chiefs stated that they are going to play Jones outside much more this year which should help elevate his production. Jones has DL1 potential as evidenced by his 34/8/15 2018 campaign. So he’s a safe DL2 choice with nice upside and could wind up significantly exceeding his ADP, especially in DT-required leagues.

5. Jeffery Simmons DT – TEN (13), -5 vs. ECR 
Simmons, the 19th overall selection in the 2019 draft, progressed nicely in his sophomore season. He technically sees most of his snaps at defensive end but qualifies at DT in many league management systems which increases his value. He increased his sack totals from 2 to 3 last year and I’m expecting another leap up to around 5 sacks or so in 2021 to go with 50-55 total tackles.

6. Grady Jarrett DT – ATL (6), -15 vs. ECR 
After a breakout 2019 campaign in which he generated 70 total tackles and 7.5 sacks, Jarrett’s numbers normalized a bit last year. He was still a top 20 finisher in tackles produced but only managed four sacks. I think his 2020 production is closer to what we should expect versus his 2019. Ultimately, he’s not a player that overly intrigues me at his current average draft position.