Auburn defensive tackle Nick Fairley had a lot of buzz as a potential No. 1 overall pick after his effort in the BCS title game.
As the draft process has continued, it seems like Fairley go anywhere in the top seven. He has the talent to go first overall, but some teams may prefer the consistency of Marcel Dareus at defensive tackle.
“He’s a great player, I’m a great player. So there’s no comparison,” Dareus said Sunday after starting his Combine experience a bit late.
Fairley has also faced some questions about taking plays off and his propensity to play after the whistle.
“Basically how I address it is everybody is entitled to their opinion. I play the game the way it should be played. I hit a light switch when I hit the field and it doesn’t turn off until after I leave,” Fairley said.
And then he really turns it off. Fairley was one of the most affable players to hit the podium in Indianapolis, with a wide smile plastered on his face throughout. Fairley said he isn’t concerned what pick he is taken -- “That’s a trick question,” he joked. He dispelled any rumors about medical problems when he said he would do all activities in Indianapolis.
Fairley lost weight before the Combine and was down to 291 pounds, which may be a little lighter than teams want.