2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Dallas Turner

Strengths

• Has great length that he uses effectively
• Heavy hands, converts speed to power
• More than enough speed to threaten the edge on NFL tackles

• Varies rush speed to keep tackles guessing

• Can bend around offensive tackles and flatten his path to the QB

• Can win with power or finesse with a variety of moves in his arsenal

• Improved every year in college and is still only 20 years old

• Length and anchor to set the edge in the run game

• Effective on inside moves and stunts

• Long, lanky frame with room to add good weight

Weaknesses

• Needs to add 10-15 pounds to withstand the rigors of an NFL season
• Needs to become more consistent 
• Better rushing from a 2-point stance
• Uses his length well, but needs to use his hands better when turning the corner
• Flashes different pass-rush moves but doesn't have a go-to move he can rely on
• Can disappear for long stretches in games
• As a run defender, he can rely too much on finesse when he has the skills and traits to set a hard edge

Final Thoughts and Chicago Bears Fit for Dallas Turner

There's a lot to like in Turner's game as is, but he's a projected top-15 pick because of the player he can become if he continues to progress. There may not be a player with a higher ceiling, regardless of position, in the 2024 NFL Draft than Turner. His length, athleticism, and flexibility all grade out as elite. If he can round out his game and become more consistent, he could be a game-wrecker at the next level.

Teams should be optimistic he can get there based on how much he's improved in his three seasons at Alabama. He increased his pass-rush win rate from 8.9% as a freshman to 18% as a sophomore to 32.5% as a junior. He also increased his total pressures, PFF defensive grade, PFF pass-rush grade, and QB hits every year as well.

The Chicago Bears need a pass-rush presence opposite Montez Sweat and own the No. 9 overall pick, which appears to be a perfect spot to grab a player of Turner's pedigree. Sweat signing a big contract with the Bears also makes drafting an edge more appealing instead of signing another player for big money.

In terms of player fit, Turner seems more comfortable rushing from a 2-point stance. But as the lines of 3-4 vs. 4-3 defenses continue to blur every year with teams in nickel more often, this doesn't seem to be a huge concern. We know Matt Eberflus will value pass rushers who can also set the edge against the run, and Turner is a much better run-defender than he gets credit for.

Pro Comparison

Ceiling: Danielle Hunter 
Average Outcome: Leonard Floyd
Floor: Lorenzo Carter