2013 NFL Draft: Should the Titans Grab DE “Tank” Carradine?

Sep 10, 2011; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Cornellius Carradine (91) puts pressure on Charleston Southern Buccaneers quarterback Malcom Dixon (15) during the first half at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Heading into the 2013 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans could be interested in both Cornellius “Tank” Carradine as well as Bjoern Werner, both Florida State DE’s.

The general consensus seems to be that Carradine is the better, more productive player of the two. The biggest knock on him has come thanks to a torn ACL in his right knee that ended his 2012 season. That being said, he has been compared to the likes of the New York Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul.

Carradine collected 11 sacks before blowing out his knee this past season, where as Werner collected 13 sacks on the season.

It’s tough to “want” a DE who suffered an ACL injury late this past season after we’ve seen how long it has taken Derrick Morgan to come back from his ACL injury and after having watched Kenny Britt struggle with his knee issues last season. The thought of taking a guy early on who may not be ready to go for training camp, or even really be able to be much of a difference maker in his first season makes me feel uneasy.

There’s also the fact that like JPP, Carradine is raw and wild require molding. Not that most defensive ends coming into the NFL don’t have flaws in their game, because they do. It’s just hard to have the raw factor being added on top of a knee injury that will limit him in his rookie year.

September 29, 2012; Tampa, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Bjoern Werner (95) defends against the South Florida Bulls during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Florida State Seminoles defeated the South Florida Bulls 30-17. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Werner presents a more complete DE who showed progression throughout his college career. While not being as much of a danger as a pass rusher, his ability to tip the ball is a nice touch. He also reminds me of the Houston Texans J.J. Watt, a player who is obviously quite special and a great asset to their team.

When it comes down to it, I feel the safer pick and the player who will have a more immediate impact is Werner. Carradine may turn into a beast at the next level, but I feel fairly confident that Werner will be a solid player himself.

How about you? Tank or Werner?

You can find me on Twitter @JustinLStewart