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If there is one thing the 2019 draft has plenty of, it’s defensive linemen. Three of which come from Clemson.
Between Dexter Lawrence and Christian Wilkins, there is a name that gets lost in the shuffle.
Albert Huggins, who was Lawrence’s backup, filled in at DT at the end of the season, and helped keep Alabama’s high-flying offense to only 16 points in the national championship game.
Though his sample size is small, the Bengals have liked what they have seen and hosted him for a workout.
Clemson DT Albert Huggins, who boosted his stock filling in for Dexter Lawrence in the national title game, has worked out for the Falcons and Bengals, and will visit the Jets. He’s bullish about his prospects. @KalynKahler’s Friday draft notes:https://t.co/g0dwQqbg0j pic.twitter.com/zINgED5PhU
— The MMQB (@theMMQB) March 29, 2019
Huggins is less talented than his teammate Lawrence, but could still serve as a run-stuffer that the Bengals are looking for.
Small as his sample size is, Huggins has shined when given the opportunity. He recorded a career high-tying five combined tackles against Alabama when he had to fill in for Lawrence.
Having to play as a backup on that Clemson defensive line does not show a lack of talent on Huggins’ part, but displays how sensational the other linemen were. The fact that Clemson barely missed a beat without their star first-round prospect shows how valuable Huggins really can be for an NFL team.
Because of Huggins’ lack of playing time, he will drop to day three, but whoever gets him may find a gem.
The Bengals might be looking for a late-round steal, and they might have one in Huggins.