Robert Nkemdiche Commits to Clemson: Analyzing How 5-Star DE Fits with Tigers

Robert Nkemdiche committed to the Clemson Tigers last week, and it really shouldn't be that big of a surprise.

In the last five years alone, Clemson has put eight defensive linemen into the NFL, including another former No. 1 overall recruit in Da'Quan Bowers. Had injury not set him back, Bowers would've likely joined the late Gaines Adams as Clemson defensive ends drafted in the top five in the last five years.

Nkemdiche isn't necessarily concerned with the NFL just yet, but many recruiting pundits believe the Grayson High School (Loganville, Ga.) star to be one of the most complete recruits in some time, and it would be foolish of him not to consider a potential NFL future.

At 6'4", 270 pounds, there is a lot to love about the recently committed Tiger. In his junior season, he recorded 78 tackles, 36 for loss, 18 sacks and also contributed over 500 yards and 17 touchdowns as a running back (yes, a running back).

He has a unique combination of size and athleticism and plays with ridiculous intensity. Nkemdiche is one of those kids who wants to dominate his matchup on each and every play, and that is something that cannot be taught anywhere by anyone.

The one who will teach him everything else is former Oklahoma defensive coordinator Brent Venables, who was brought over to Clemson this winter. The Tigers gave up nearly 30 points per game last year (29.3), and the 70 points West Virginia hung up on them in the Orange Bowl still stings in Death Valley.

They expect Nkemdiche to make an immediate impact in sub packages at the very least in 2013. The Tigers are expected to start senior Malliciah Goodman on one side of the line and sophomore Corey Crawford on the other this year, meaning a starting spot will open up when the potential star joins the program.

The beauty of Nkemdiche is that he can kick inside in nickel situations and provide pass-rush and run support out of the same spot. His athletic ability and strength will cause problems for guards in the ACC from the get-go.

As a straight-up defensive end, he is tough and strong enough to anchor against the run and fast enough to beat tackles around the edge. He still needs to refine his technique and pass-rush moves, but he should quickly develop into a complete defensive end talent.

Venables will have the opportunity to do a number of things with Nkemdiche, even drop him into coverage in zone blitz schemes, and it will only be a matter of time before he becomes an every-down player for the Tigers.

His decision to play for Clemson was one not taken lightly, so expect him to be a difference-maker early and often in his career.

You can catch Wes O'Donnell covering all the college football recruiting buzz on Twitter in addition to the Signed, Sealed, Delivered blog.