Biography: Three-year starter who totaled 30 tackles/8 tackles for loss/4 sacks as a senior and 39/6/2 as a junior.

Positives: Big, powerful interior defender who controls the line of scrimmage. Gets off the ball with a terrific first step, shows strength in his lower body and easily holds the point of attack. Breaks down well, plays with good knee bend and bulrushes blockers off the line. Explodes through the open gaps of the offensive line. Relatively agile for a big man, flashing the ability to change direction and get down the line to make plays. Keeps his feet moving on contact. Gets a lot of force going up the field.

Negatives: Gets lazy with his hands and struggles sliding off blocks. Marginal skill as a pass rusher. Does not always play up to his level of potential.

Analysis: Ta'amu has been a tremendous force on the Washington defensive line the past three seasons. He offers a large amount of upside and is one of the better pure nose tackles in this year's draft. Ta'amu can be an instant starter and productive player at the next level if he elevates his game and consistently plays to his ability.

Projection: 2nd