This is a deep DT group and several who can be or are NTs. NFLDS gives 10 DTs 2nd round or better grades. We should be able to get a NT at some point. I don't mind that Cody is one dimensional. His ability to clog up the works inside is as good as any in this draft. He should be able to step in and play a lot as a rookie.There are several others who are interesting too. Linval Joseph, Torell Troup, Geno Atkins (the son of our former FS, Gene), Jeff Owens, Mike Neal, etc. NFLDS has Joseph and Troup with 2nd round grades.
Neither Owens nor Atkins are 2 gapping 3-4 nose tackles. The others you mentioned, yes. Of them, Mike Neal is my favorite. He plays with the best leverage and strenght of all of them.
I'm not ready to give up on Fasano just yet. Actually, I'd like to have David Martin back and at least see what Nalbone and Sperry can do. I'd rather spend the 2nd rd pick elsewhere, particulary Sean Lee, an OLB or S. And if Benn or DT is there- forget about it. I still think that they might take Lafell if we don't get Bryant at #12. Not sold on him, but he fits the profile fairly well at a true need position imo.
I'm not giving up on Fasano. He would be very effective when paired with a TE that can threaten the seam. IMO that was part of the reason that our offense was more effective the year he was paired with Martin. In this draft, Bryant was taken in the first so I don't think Benn, DT or LaFell were considerations. I also thought the Ss were looking at would last until the third. Since I really like Pitta and Hernandez, I felt they would represent the greatest impact.
I'd rather have Alualu than Cody at that spot. Alualu can backup both end and NT positions. I just think he is a better value there than Cody.
I'm with you on Alualu! That kind of rhymed lol. He's got a lot of talent IMO. His hand quickness is not always the best but he's got a great motor and is very strong.
The thing is I think you can find guys that are two down players that take up blockers like Cody does later in the draft. I just don't think he is good value there. Alualu has the potential to be another Randy Starks for us, which is something we are currently lacking.