Inside the draft

DEFENSIVE ENDS

Almost every team needs a defensive end with size and speed, but the '99 draft offers little in the way of help. There are a number of undersized ends with pass rush skills, and desperation likely will force many teams to take those players higher than their abilities dictate. Here is a look at the best ((*)denotes underclassman):

1. Ebenezer Ekuban, North Carolina, 6-4, 265. Can rush the passer and gets penetration against the run. High motor guy. Athletic former tight end. Ascending.

2. (*)Jevon Kearse, Florida, 6-5, 254. A little bit of a 'tweener. Runs like the wind and makes plays all over the field. Very athletic, but doesn't appear to have great instincts.

3. Tony Bryant, Florida State, 6-4, 268. Not in the same category as Andre Wadsworth and Peter Boulware, who preceded him at FSU. Good first step quickness and athleticism. Not overly productive.

4. Mike Rucker, Nebraska, 6-6, 250. Has a good straight-line burst to the passer. Good change of direction and balance. Needs to develop strength and anchor against the run better.

5. (*)Robaire Smith, Michigan State, 6-5, 264. Fernando Smith's little brother has the athleticism to turn teams on. Has been somewhat of an underachiever.

6. Robert Daniel, Northwestern State, 6-6, 258. Has the athleticism and pass rush skills to really develop. Also has the frame to hold more weight.

7. Lamar King, Saginaw Valley, 6-5, 285. Big, strong, tough former linebacker. Doesn't have great speed but tries hard. On the upswing. Can enhance his stock at the Senior Bowl.

8. Melvin Bradley, Arkansas, 6-2, 253. A man without a position. Very productive player with a high motor. Can deliver a blow. Agile and athletic. But gets knocked around too much.

9. Tom Burke, Wisconsin, 6-4, 249. Best suited to play linebacker in a 3-4. Too small to be an every-down end. But is athletic and has pass rush ability.

10. Jesse Tarplin, Georgia Tech, 6-3, 250. Athletic and quick, but isn't real physical. Good-effort guy who might be considered at linebacker.

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