[2024] Purdue Defensive Tackle Room Breakdown

[BabaYaga]

This might be the shortest room breakdown yet...and will definitely be the second shortest that I do (save the specialists). Purdue has reason for optimism this year at the interior of their defensive line with three pretty solid options. Purdue generally only runs one defensive tackle out on the field but that is okay given their room. This might actually be the deepest position that Purdue has in terms of starting caliber players. Below, we will take a look at who could be in line to start as we head into the spring, the projected starters right now, and a look at the depth that Purdue has in the room. Purdue has three DT's on the roster and one of them is a blue chip prospect. The sole blue chip is a freshman.

Returning Players
Paul Jr. Gonzalez - 3* (SR) - B+
Michael McCoy - 3* (JR) - A-
Sam Chaplin - 4* (FR) - B

Incoming Players
N/A

2023 Season Stats
McCoy - 46 tackles, 17 TFL, 6 sacks
Gonzalez - 5 tackles, 2 TFL

Purdue DT Room Breakdown

Projected starter: Sam Chaplin - Chaplin is a former blue chip prospect and should assume the starting role right away this fall. He has a very high ceiling and might be one of the better defensive tackle prospects in his class. He had a great redshirt campaign and is projected to man the interior for the next four years.

One to Watch: Michael McCoy - McCoy actually had a very good season last year and is a very good junior defensive tackle. He's likely going to slide to DT2 this year but should find his fair share of time on the field for his team. Purdue doesn't feel like they have any lack of talent when they sub off tackles.

Darkhorse: Paul Jr. Gonzalez - Again, Gonzalez will find his fair share of playing time this year and will be very fine in his role. Purdue doesn't see much of a difference between any of these three defensive tackles.

Position Switch Candidate: Look for a defensive end to be moved over to defensive tackle this year to help with the depth at this position. Purdue has its starting man for the next four years but will need some depth at the position as well.

Notes on others:
THERE ARE NO MORE

Purdue DT Room Future Outlook
The DT room outlook for Purdue is average to good. Yes, there is not a ton of depth but when you only have one on the field for 90% of the snaps, it doesn't end up mattering too much. Purdue will supplement this position in recruiting this year and will be able to get a young DE over to the position as well. Short term though, it honestly might be the best position that Purdue has over the next two years. Chaplin will assume the DT1 role this year and hold it down for the next four years. This is the one position so far that doesn't know who will start for them in 2028...but who cares. Purdue is confident in the interior DL.