Darius Philon to San Diego Chargers: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

The last pick of the San Diego Chargers in the 2015 draft came in the sixth round with the selection of Arkansas defensive tackle Darius Philon.

The Skinny

Philon was granted draft eligibility as an underclassman after just two seasons played at Arkansas. He appeared in 12 games as a redshirt freshman, recording 46 tackles (nine for loss), three sacks and two forced fumbles. His sophomore year was accompanied by second-team All-SEC recognition after posting 46 tackles (11.5 for loss), 4.5 sacks, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries. 

Otis Kirk of 247Sports reported in January that Arkansas coaches attempted to persuade Philon in staying on with the team, but he ultimately chose to forgo his remaining two years of eligibility and enter the draft. Head coach Bret Bielema wished Philon well on his endeavors at the next level, saying in a statement:

"

We are disappointed that Darius will no longer be part of our football program but very excited about the opportunities ahead of him. It was a privilege to get to know Darius and his family over the past two years. He is a very young and blessed athlete and we wish him nothing but success in life’s path he has chosen.

"

Physical Ability

Philon is a quick-footed 6'1", 298 pounds with plenty of growing to do at just 21 years old. Here's the lowdown on his strengths, according to NFL.com's Lance Zierlein:

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Outstanding burst and quickness off the snap. Penetrator with ability to make plays on the other side of the line if he wins early. Able to blow up zone plays with quickness. Plays with desired bend. Uses rip to establish advantage on edge and then plays with leverage to maintain his position through the play. High school defensive end who brings more advanced hand usage and pass-rush moves to the interior spot. Has athleticism to mirror and help contain quarterbacks thinking of bolting from pocket. Plus speed to the sideline in pursuit.

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He played defensive tackle in Arkansas' four-man front, but his projected position in the NFL may be as a 5-technique in San Diego's 3-4. His quickness off the snap would be better served there, but defensive coordinator John Pagano could also use him as an interior rusher in sub-packages. 

Zierlein's scouting report suggests Philon may be a bit undersized to play nose tackle, which is understandable considering how young he is. Some time in the weight room will allow him to put on the necessary mass to play inside, but he brings a good foundation for a penetrating defensive lineman in terms of burst and athleticism.

Where He Fits

Philon will push the likes of Kendall Reyes and Sean Lissemore, who turned in subpar outings in 2014. Both struggled with missed tackles and failed to show any resolve in getting after the quarterback. Reyes was, by far, the most disappointing of the bunch. He racked up 10.5 sacks his first two seasons in San Diego but was limited to just one this past year. If he can return to his old self, Reyes will be able to keep Philon at bay.

The Bottom Line

Philon, though raw, has promise as a pass-rusher on the defensive line. He was originally projected with a third-round value, according to NFL.com, so this is considered a steal on some level. At worst, the Chargers could cut him in training camp and sign him later to the practice squad, where he can take a year to develop his skills.