Throughout the summer, 3GML beat writers from across the country will be breaking down the position groups for each of the seven 3GML franchises. The assigned point values will assist with our 2017 3GML pre-season rankings and projections!
DEFENSIVE LINE
BUFFALO BILLS
2017 DT: Geno Atkins (91) & Malik McDowell (Rookie)
2017 DE/EDGE: Myles Garrett (Rookie) & Andre Branch (77)
Breakdown: If all goes according to plan, this unit could easily be ranked a '10' as early as next season. Myles Garrett is an all-world talent (similar to Jadeveon Clowney coming out of South Carolina). Work-ethic concerns aside, Malik McDowell (out of Michigan State) was a Top 5 who fell into the Bills laps. McDowell should learn from the All-World Geno Atkins and become a great player in the league.
Writer #1: 8
Writer #2: 9
MIAMI DOLPHINS
2017 DT: Leonard Williams (86) & Jarran Reed (72)
2017 DE/EDGE: Khalil Mack (98) & Danielle Hunter (83)
Breakdown: A very strong unit up front. Khalil Mack is probably one of the top three defensive players in the NFL, so he makes this team's rating pretty strong. The Dolphins like to run complicated blitzes so having these guys up front only adds to challenge of opposing offensive lines.
Writer #1: 9
Writer #2: 9
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
2017 DT: Damon Harrison (88) & Nick Fairley (79)
2017 DE/EDGE: Brooks Reed (76) & Michael Bennett (90)
Breakdown: The unheralded Brooks Reed is an all-motor player who compliments top talents Damon "Snacks" Harrison and Michael Bennett well. Bennett is the 'face' of the Patriots defensive unit who brings a nasty edge to the AFC East.
Writer #1: 9
Writer #2: 9
NEW YORK JETS
2017 DT: Aaron Donald (98) & Dontari Poe (79)
2017 DE/EDGE: Joey Bosa (87) & Vic Beasley (82)
Breakdown: How did this team end up with Joey Bosa AND Aaron Donald? Jiminy Christmas! That's not even the end of it. Vic Beasley lead the league in sacks last year and Dontari Poe was one of the best DTs available in free agency. Good luck running for more than 50 yards a game against this unit.
Writer #1: 10
Writer #2: 10
CURRENT 3GML POINTS (LEAGUE RANKING)
New York Jets: 115
Buffalo Bills: 109
New England Patriots: 104
Miami Dolphins: 103
Tomorrow: Linebacker breakdown...
