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2010 NFL Mock Draft: At No. 28, the San Diego Chargers Select...
March 24, 2010
...Terrence Cody, defensive tackle from the Alabama Crimson Tide.
With the release of three-time pro bowl player Jamal Williams, the San Diego Chargers will look to fill the most valuable spot in their 3-4 defensive scheme.
The run-stopping Williams lead the Chargers defensive front and will be tough to replace performing as the Chargers most valuable player on defense for the past few years.
Cody, whom many know as “Mount Cody” because of his large 350 pound frame, is considered the fourth or fifth best DT in the 2010 draft, but he is the best fit for the Chargers.
Presenting identical qualities of Williams, Cody is known for his ability to stuff the run and take on multiple blockers.
Cody is undervalued when compared to other defensive tackles entering the 2010 draft because he provides little as a pass rusher and his range is limited.
The Chargers have had troubles with applying pressure on the quarterback in recent seasons, and Cody won’t help much in that area. However, his effectiveness and success will not be measured by sacks but by stopping the run.
Williams was considered the best defensive tackle in 2007 when named the starter for the AFC pro bowl team and had zero sacks that year.
Another reason Cody is considered a second to early third round draft pick is because he has displayed major conditioning and stamina issues.
It might be really obvious but I am going to tell you anyways, he is a really really big guy who has been reported to hover around 400 pounds.
How do you think he got like that?
Definitely not by running all summer.
Of course he is going to have problems with stamina and conditioning, he stops others who have stamina utilizing as little much energy as possible.
The great thing about defensive tackles is that they don’t need to play every play. They only need to play in running situations, no third and longs aka pass rushing downs.
After watching the Chargers get pounded on the ground against the Jets and in the playoffs, they are in definite need of a run-stopper who can take the pressure off our middle linebackers.
With that being said if Taylor Mays is available, the Chargers better pick him over Cody.
The Chargers most feared defense was when the hard-hitting Rodney Harrison played for the Chargers in 1994—the only year San Diego made it to the Super Bowl.
On top of that, Mays provides the physical size and nature along with speed which is a nasty combination for offensive-skilled players.
When I say physical size and nature, I am speaking Ronnie Lott-like, meaning one of a kind.
Playing under Pete Carroll will pay huge dividends, Mays will excel in the NFL because he has too much natural ability and physical skill.
Oh by the way, thank you to all Seahawk fans who are reading this.
With the Chargers receiving an early second-round pick for back-up quarterback Charlie Whitehurst (doh!), San Diego can concentrate on their running back situation then.