Alabama junior defensive tackle and end Marcell Dareus declared for the 2011 NFL Draft; he figures to be one of the top linemen chosen in April's event.

Dareus notched 11.0 total sacks the last two seasons, while not being known for his pass-rushing skills, and is a disruptive force.

Strengths

• Stout frame (6-foot-4, 306 pounds)
• Good pursuit and motor
• Powerful bull rush, collapses the pocket
• Experience in a 3-4 system, versatile
• Athletic for his size

• Talented with upside

  Disengages blocks well with his hands
• Lateral agility and balance
• Can be an explosive tackler
• Awareness
• Has overcome off-field adversity
• Upside

Weaknesses

• Not particularly quick-footed despite being rather fast for his size
• One year as a full-time starter
• Suspended two games in 2010 for accepting illegal benefits

Expected draft placement

Dareus has the potential to be special in the NFL. His skill set is best used as a defensive tackle in a 4-3 system, but 3-4 teams will consider him as a five-technique end.

With a high first-round grade, Dareus could draw attention from the Carolina Panthers (No. 1), Denver Broncos (No. 2), Buffalo Bills (No. 3), Cleveland Browns (No. 6), San Francisco 49ers (No. 7), Dallas Cowboys (No. 9) and Washington Redskins (No. 10). The Panthers, Broncos and Bills seem like the most likely landing spots at this time.