NFL Draft Odds: Favorites emerge for first defender selected in first round

We know that the first round of this year’s NFL Draft will be dominated by offensive players. Quarterbacks, receivers and tackles could steal the show. But what about the defensive guys?

Based on the various mock drafts and post NFL combine analysis, the first ten picks of the draft might be offensive players. So if you are a betting person, an interesting wager would be on who will be the first defensive player selected.

FanDuel researched some odds and gave us a scorecard. You probably won’t go wrong betting on the Crimson Tide.

Dallas Turner Edge Alabama +100

Edge rushers are always coveted. And Turner, the former Alabama star, seems to be the top rated at the position.

Mel Kiper of ESPN has him at No. 9 on his big board and the top defender. Meanwhile, Daniel Jeremiah of the NFL Network places him 11th overall in his top 5.

Quinyon Mitchell CB Toledo +350

The oddsmakers rate Mitchell as the top defensive back over some corners and safeties from much bigger schools.

He notched five interceptions with two returned for touchdowns two seasons ago. But quarterbacks did not throw his way last year. That is a huge compliment to his skills.

Jared Verse Edge Florida State +380

Verse starred for an excellent Florida State defense. And remember how well edge rushers do in the NFL Draft.

He showed off his skills at the combine, running a 4.58 in the 40 while posting a 35-inch vertical.

Terrion Arnold CB Alabama +470

The money thinks Arnold is the better Alabama defensive back over Kool-Aid McKinstry.

He tested well at the combine and we know that NFL teams covet SEC cornerbacks in the draft. So it is smart money on Arnold.

Byron Murphy DT Texas +2500

Murphy is the highest-rated tackle with the oddsmakers. Teams need the big run-stoppers who can also rush the quarterback.

He lacks the classic size, but he has big athleticism, running a 4.87 at the combine.

Laiatu Latu Edge UCLA +2500

Remember what we said about edge rushers? Latu was the most successful pass rusher in the country last season.

But NFL teams may be somewhat hesitant about him because of his previous neck injury. It did not bother him with the Bruins, but did before he transferred from Washington.

Best of rest for top defender in NFL Draft

Nate Wiggins CB Clemson +4000
Cooper DeJean CB Iowa +4000
Chop Robinson Edge Penn State +4000
Jer’Zhan Newton DT Illinois +7500
Kool-Aid McKinstry CB Alabama +10000
Ennis Rakestraw CB Missouri +10000

Circle the date. The NFL Draft is April 25-27 from Detroit.