Texas A&M defensive end Myles Garrett is the clear-cut No. 1 overall player in the 2017 NFL draft class, but how does he compare to other elite pass-rushing prospects in the past decade? Let's run through my highest-graded 4-3 DE prospects since 2008, slotting in Garrett accordingly.
The "as a prospect" blurbs are how we viewed each player coming out of college. How they performed as professionals was not factored into the write-up.
98 grade
Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina, 2014
Pre-draft ranking: No. 1 overall
As a prospect: Clowney has a freakish combination of length, get-off burst, suddenness and power. He does an excellent job of converting speed to power and frequently wins with his first step, keeping offensive tackles honest by mixing in an explosive inside move.
In the NFL: Drafted by the Texans No. 1 overall. Clowney had a breakout 2016 season after battling injuries in his first two years. He has 10.5 career sacks and one forced fumble in 31 games.