The safety class features plenty of diversity amongst the top-tier prospects in this year’s NFL Draft. In terms of height and weight measurements, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a position group with more fluctuation than the safety spot. While it’s not considered to be a strong safety class overall, several high-impact players are expected to enter the league.
Our consensus safety is Malaki Starks of Georgia who brings big-time pedigree, as a top high school recruit, college football national champion and two-time All-American. A menace on the backend of the Bulldogs defense, Starks displayed tremendous versatility throughout his collegiate career and is expected to be a plug-and-play starter in the NFL.
Many talent observers are head over heels about the athleticism of South Carolina marvel Nick Emmanwori. With some of the most impressive testing measurables ever recorded at the combine, Emmanwori possesses a rare combination of size and speed. However, be advised that the athletic traits don’t always translate to on-field play. There’s no doubt he owns the upside to be a very good pro but there could be some growing pains initially during his transition.
No one is more instinctual than Oklahoma ball-hawk Billy Bowman. Somewhat undervalued due to his lack of size, the Sooner safety had 11 career interceptions, including three of which he returned for a touchdown. We are expecting him to have an Eddie Jackson-type of presence on the backend in the pros.
Out of sight for most of the season but not out of mind would be Kevin Winston of Penn State. The lengthy, physical defender sustained an early season-ending injury but recovered in time to perform for NFL scouts during the Nittany Lions pro day workout right before the draft. He did not disappoint. In fact, Winston might bring the most upside, considering he is a first round talent that could likely be had on Day 2 of the draft.
Flying under the radar would be Andrew Mukuba of Texas. It’s not often that you hear players say that they transferred out of Clemson due to lack of development. Such is the case with Mukuba, who landed in Austin with the hopes of being challenged as a player. He certainly rose to the occasion, responding with a career-high five interceptions.
Looking for a sleeper? Try ‘the other’ Georgia safety Dan Jackson on for size. Playing in the shadow of the aforementioned Starks, the former walk-on starred at the Senior Bowl and shined at his pro day, despite being snubbed by the combine selection committee.
Since 2020, an average of 57 defensive backs have been drafted each year. Approximately, one-third tend to be safeties. Expect that trend to continue, as we anticipate anywhere from 16-22 total safeties to be chosen during the 2025 NFL Draft. Below, you will find our final big board rankings for the safety position.
2025 SAFETY BIG BOARD
RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | HAND | ARM | WING | 40 (10-YD), MPH | VERT | BROAD | SHUTTLE | 3-CONE | PROJ
**Note**Heights of players are measured to the nearest eighth of an inch – for example, “6003” would stand for 6 ft. and 3/8 inches tall. (The first number refers to the feet, the second two numbers refer to the inches, and the last number refers to eighths of an inch.). Arm, hand, and wingspan are written differently – 3012 would mean 30 1/2 inches, 0934 would mean 9 3/4 inches, and 7558 would mean 75 5/8 inches.
Malaki Starks, Georgia, 6007, 197, 0948, 3158, 7838, 4.50 (1.51), 23.12, n/a, 33”, 4.45, 7.26, Rd1
Billy Bowman, Oklahoma, 5097, 192, 0858, 2848, 7068, 4.42 (1.52), 23.13, 17, 35.5”, 10-03, n/a, n/a, Rd1
Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina, 6031, 220, 0900, 3248, 7828, 4.38 (1.49), 23.53, 20, 43”, 11-06, n/a, n/a, Rd2
Kevin Winston Jr., Penn State, 6014, 215, 0948, 3248, 8078, 4.48, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, Rd2
Xavier Watts, Notre Dame, 5116, 204, 0858, 3128, 7648, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, Rd3
Andrew Mukuba, Texas, 5112, 186, 0900, 3000, 7538, 4.45 (1.53), 22.87, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, Rd3
Dan Jackson, Georgia, 6001, 194, 0868, 2978, 7318, 4.45, n/a, 34”, 4.33, 7.12, Rd4
Lathan Ransom, Ohio State, 6002, 206, 0848, 3048, 7518, 4.53, 20, 36.5” 10-1, 4.26, n/a, Rd4
Jaylen Reed, Penn State, 5115, 211, 0900, 3038, 7428, 4.49 (1.51), 22.34, 19, 33.5”, n/a, n/a, n/a, Rd4
Maxen Hook, Toledo, 6004, 202, 0918, 3148, 7548, 4.55 (1.55), 22.08, n/a, 34.5”, 10-04, n/a, n/a, Rd4
Jonas Sanker, Virginia, 6003, 206, 0968, 3228, 7758, 4.48 (1.51), 22.77, 12, 36.5”, 10-08, 4.48, 7.06, Rd4
Dante Trader Jr., Maryland, 5107 196, 0878, 3128, 7518, n/a, 12, 31”, 09-09, 4.32, 7.09, Rd5
RJ Mickens Jr, Clemson, 6000, 199, 0878, 3228, 7758, 4.49 (1.55), 23.10, n/a, 41.5”, 10-01, n/a, n/a, Rd5
Craig Woodson, California, 6001, 200, 0868, 3048, 7528, 4.45 (1.53), 22.67, 13, 36”, 10-07, n/a, n/a, Rd5
Malachi Moore, Alabama, 5112, 196, 0900, 2958, 7528, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, Rd5
Alijah Clark, Syracuse, 6006, 188, 0948, 3078, 7768, 4.50 (1.53), 21.97, n/a, 33”, 10-02, n/a, n/a, Rd6
Sebastian Castro, Iowa, 5112, 203, 1048, 3068, 7438, 4.59 (1.59), 22.03, 30.5”, 09-09, 4.34, n/a, Rd6
Kitan Crawford, Nevada- Reno, 5105, 202, 0948, 3100, 7528, 4.41 (1.52), 23.31, 18, 41.5”, 10-08, 4.03, 6.81, Rd6
Marques Sigle, Kansas State, 5113, 199, 0928, 3068, 7400, 4.37 (1.50), 23.53, 18, 38”, 10-10, n/a, n/a, Rd7
Hunter Wohler, Wisconsin, 6020, 213, 0928, 3058, 7538, 4.57 (1.54), 21.87, n/a, 37”, 10-00, 4.25, 6.72, Rd7
Malik Verdon, Iowa State, 6035, 218, 0948, 3248, 7838, n/a, n/a, 37.5”, 10-0, 4.34, 7.06, HPFA
Mike Smith Jr., Eastern Kentucky, 6011, 209, 0928, 3200, 7728, 4.53, 15, 38”, 10-1, 4.30, 7.20, HPFA
MJ Griffin, Louisville, 6003, 189, 0878, 3238, 7868, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, HPFA
Garnett Hollis, West Virginia, 6002, 203, 0800, 3200, 7600, 4.50, 11, 36.5”, 10-5, 4.30, n/a, HPFA
Shaquan Loyal, Rutgers, 5115, 202, 1000, 3118, 7548, 4.58, 15, 34”, 4.19, 6.77, HPFA
De’Rickey Wright, Texas A&M, 6036, 208, 0858, 3468, 4.71, n/a, 34”, 4.44, 7.23, HPFA
Johnathan Edwards, Tulane, 6005, 203, 0900, 3228, 7718, 4.39, 13, 38.5”, 10-4, 4.41, n/a, HPFA
Mishael Powell, Miami, 6006, 210, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, 13, 32.5”, n/a, n/a, n/a, HPFA
J.J Roberts, Marshall, 5110, 192, 0878, 3148, 7548, 4.41, 20, 40.5”, 10-6, 4.11, 6.76, HPFA
Justin Barron, Syracuse, 6036, 225, 0918, 3118, 7668, 4.68, n/a, 34”, 4.38, 6.98, HPFA
Robert McDaniel, Jackson State, 6020, 212, 0978, 3248, 7800, 4.55 (1.56), 14, 38.5", 10-08, 4.50, 7.25, PFA
Major Burns, LSU, 6020, 207, 0918, 3148, 7578, 4.51, 12, 37.5”, n/a, 4.44, 7.13, PFA
Glendon Miller, Maryland, 6020, 196, 0868, 3228, 7748, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, PFA
Trey Rucker, Oklahoma State, 5116, 212, 0918, 3068, 7328, n/a, 19, 36”, 9-10, n/a, n/a, PFA
Seyi Oladipo, Boise State, 5112, 209, n/a, n/a, n/a, 4.64, (1.62), 19, 33”, 10-3, 4.52, 7.10, PFA
Shamari Simmons, Arizona State, 5115, 183, n/a, n/a, n/a, 4.70, 12, 35”, 9-11, 4.43, 7.44, PFA
Bryan Addison, UCLA, 6042, 198, 0900, 3118, 7628, 4.57, 8, 36”, 10-7, 4.62, 7.41, PFA
Trikweze Bridges, Florida, 6021, 196, 0958, 3378, 7958, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, PFA
Shilo Sanders, Colorado, 6000, 195, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, n/a, PFA
Tyron Herring, Delaware, 6010, 201, 0928, 3178, 7718, 4.49, 10, 31.5”, 9-11, 4.41, 7.25, PFA
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PLAYER PROFILE KEY (How to read the prospect header):
RK. LAST NAME | FIRST NAME | SCHOOL | POSITION | JERSEY # | YEAR | HOMETOWN | PROJECTION | VALUE
HEIGHT | WEIGHT | HAND | ARM | WINGSPAN | FORTY (10-YARD SPLIT), MPH | BENCH | VERT | BROAD | SHUTTLE | 3-CONE
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TIER 1 PROSPECTS -- FRANCHISE TALENT
None.
TIER 2 PROSPECTS -- PRO BOWL TALENT
1. STARKS, MALAKI | Georgia | S | #24 | Jr | Jefferson, GA | Pro Bowl Talent | Round 1
Combine: 6007 | 197 | 0948 | 3158 | 7838 | 4.50 (1.51), 23.12 | n/a | 33” | n/a | 4.45 | 7.26
One-Liner: A natural free safety who was asked to play multiple spots this past season, causing a dip in production but there are flashes of brilliance that could make him a high-impact performer in the pros.
Evaluation: Viewed as a premier prospect who checks off all the boxes in terms of size, athleticism, speed, instincts, smarts, pedigree and production, Starks was playing a bit out of position in 2024. As a result, he was a bit more susceptible to the big play and saw his numbers dip across the board. This was due to the fact that he played nearly 40% of his snaps in the slot. While it wasn't always pretty, it did open up scouts to his ability to match up against wideouts in press-man coverage. Starks is at his best as a center fielder type safety who can utilize his range and step up in the box when needed. He possesses natural instincts, is quick to close and plays physically. Starks is a solid tackler for the most part but his aggressiveness can make him over-pursue at times, as there are more missed tackles than you would like to see. In addition, he can be overpowered by bigger, imposing linemen against second level blocking in the run game. Despite the flaws, If he can prove to smooth out the inconsistent bumps, Starks owns Pro Bowl playmaking potential.
Quotable: “It’s the same thing he does on the field. He’s holding people accountable. I think that’s one of his greatest traits. Yes, he’s a good football player. Yes, he’s a great ball hawk, all that kind of stuff. But at the end of the day, Malaki holds people accountable, and he holds himself accountable. That’s why he’s a good player.” Georgia Co-Defensive Coordinator Travaris Robinson on Malaki Starks
Background: He suffered a torn labrum and had to undergo shoulder surgery during the 2024 offseason. Suffered a broken leg as a freshman in high school. Struggled growing up, as family dealt with bouts of homelessness when he was younger during the third through sixth grades. Known to have prestige, character and high confidence. A two-time All-American and All-SEC selection. Was a five-star recruit who also starred in basketball and track (state champion long jumper). Majored in sports management. recipient of the Herbert and Burdelle Mobley Family Scholarship and the Susan & Mark Tomlinson Family Football Scholarship. Declared early and was invited to the NFL Combine invite.
TIER 3 PROSPECTS -- SOLID STARTER
2. BOWMAN JR., BILLY | Oklahoma | S | # 2 | Sr | Denton, TX | Solid Starter | Round 1
Combine: 5097 | 192 | 0858 | 2848 | 7068 | 4.42 (1.52), 23.13 | 17 | 35.5” | 10-03 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: An in-the-box safety, shot out of a cannon, quick to close, with great awareness and instincts, along with the ability to bait the quarterback.
Evaluation: Come across the middle and watch the weasel go pop–Bowman is a field general that opposing quarterbacks must account for on every play. An incredible athlete, Bowman constantly shows up around the football and is highly active. He flies to the ball-carrier and is quick to close in on space. The strong safety has excelled under head coach Brent Venables, showcasing propensity for creating turnovers and becoming an offensive player with the ball in his hands. His quick instincts and closing speed, enable him to jump the route and make the opponent pay. Bowman finished with 11 career interceptions and had three pick-six returns for touchdowns during the 2023 season. While Bowman will lay the lumber when presented the opportunity, he needs to clean up some of his tackling woes and become more dependable in the open-field. His biggest knock is the lack of size, so the team that drafts him will have to live with some of his vulnerability in the strength department at times. However, his positives far outweigh the negatives, as Bowman is arguably the top safety in this year’s draft and reminds us of Eddie Jackson (Alabama/Bears). He is a cornerstone-type player.
Quotable: "I want to suffocate offenses. Offense is easy to play. You know your play. You know where the ball is going. All you got to do is get the ball and make somebody miss. On defense, it brings so much more of a challenge. So it's so much more fun. But my goal is just to suffocate offenses. I don't want to give them nothing. I want to hold them to zero-to-three. When the ball is in the air, it's mine." – Billy Bowman on his style of play.
Background: One of the Sooners team leaders, very intentional and has a deliberate work ethic, according to coaches; the first one in the building, last one out-type. Starter in 41-of-47 career games for Sooners. Received a second round grade by the NFL Advisory Board following his 2023 campaign but opted to return in order to boost his draft stock. A consensus four-star recruit from Ryan High School. Multidisciplinary Studies major. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
3. EMMANWORI, NICK | South Carolina | S | #7 | Jr | Irmo, SC | Solid Starter | Round 2
Combine: 6031 | 220 | 0900 | 3248 | 7828 | 4.38 (1.49), 23.53 | 20 | 43” | 11-06 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A freakazoid athlete with great production, plus unheard of size/speed dimensions and measurables that will make NFL scouts drool.
Evaluation: Aside from his athleticism, what makes Emmanwori so unique is his versatility to freelance as a center fielder versus the pass, or slide down in the box and step up against the run. He has long range with the ability to cover lots of ground and natural ball-instincts. Emmanwori has spent most of his time at safety and moonlights in the nickel spot but could also step in at linebacker if needed. The one issue that pops up in his game is poor tackling technique. Ultimately you will have to learn to live with the good (rare elite athleticism) and the bad (below-average physicality). Emmanwori demonstrates insane change of direction of ability, along with incredible backpedal, with Olympian-like fluidity and hip-swivel. At 6-foot-3, with a near 80-inch wingspan, 4.38 forty and 1.49 ten-yard split, these are characteristics that can’t be taught. In fact, his 43” vertical jump was the highest ever recorded by a player weighing at least 200 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine. While Emmanwori projects as the next Cam Chancellor, if maximizes peak potential, he may remind others of Obi Melifonwu with some questions about his toughness.
Quotable: "My college coach actually coached Kam Chancellor in college so he used to compare us a lot. I remember him telling me that a lot of dudes [scouts] tried to say he was a linebacker coming out of college and all this other type of stuff. We have gotten a lot of comparisons." – Nick Emmanwori on his comparison to former Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor
Background: Full name is Nicholas Ovundah Eze Emmanwori. The youngest of five brothers, the competitive demeanor definitely shows up on game day. Appeared in 37 games, making 36 starts over a three-year career. A three-star recruit as a linebacker out of Irmo High School. Majored in psychology. Decided to opt out the second half of Citrus Bowl unbeknown to the coaching staff, creating a bit of a stir on his way out of the door. Brother, Okachi, played DB at Presbyterian, Wofford and Tennessee Tech. Declared early; NFL Combine invite.
4. WINSTON JR., KEVIN | Penn State | S | #2 | Jr | Columbia, MD | Solid Starter | Round 2
Combine: 6014 | 215 | 0948 | 3248 | 8078 | 4.48 (pro day) | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A big, fast, physical safety who serves as an enforcer on the backend of the defense owns first-round ability but missed the entire 2024 season, so he could be selected later on in the draft.
Evaluation: If you were to mold the ideal safety frame, it would look something like Winston Jr. who possesses a great physique, along with cat-like instincts and the ability to lay the lumber when presented the opportunity. He can play either safety spot, or the Joker/Star role (think Derwin James). Winston Jr. does a great job of knifing around oncoming blockers to make the tackle. In fact, he crashes the line of scrimmage with reckless abandon and blows up ball-carriers like a heat-seeking missile. However, there are times where his height does allow some slot receivers to get leverage on him for blocks and he can get caught playing with a high pad level; he’ll need to refine his stack and shed timing. Unfortunately, a partially torn ACL suffered in Week 2 ended his 2024 campaign before it could even get started. Prior to the injury Winston was thought to have been first round bound. He does boast experience on special teams, including kick return, kick coverage, punt return, punt coverage and field goal block units. If he proves to bounce back healthy and returns to form, Winston Jr. could ultimately wind up being one of the top talents in this year’s draft.
Quotable: “It was so hard for me. I never expected to play my first game and then the next week in practice I was going to get hurt. But you know, I had to come back. Starting this season off, my motivation was to be there for my teammates and be a leader on this team, no matter whether I’m on the field or not. I had to commit to that and make sure I’m here when [we’re] on the sideline and guys get frustrated. I got to be there to calm them down.” – Kevin Winston on being sidelined
Background: Durability will be a major concern with limited experience and having missed the past season. Was a reserve as a freshman and missed most of his junior year, so he has just one season of starting experience and will have played one full game in the 18 months leading up to September kickoff. A team captain known to be a highly mature player. Majored in criminal justice. Son of Natasha and Kevin Winston Sr., who was a member of the James Madison 2004 FCS National Championship team; has one sister, Khloe. Enjoys swimming and riding bikes in his free time. Declared early; NFL Combine invite.
5. WATTS, XAVIER | Notre Dame | S | #0 | rSr | Omaha, NE | Solid Starter | Round 3
Combine: 5116 | 204 | 0858 | 3128 | 7648 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A durable playmaker with elite instincts and ball skills, along with tremendous leadership.
Evaluation: Need a turnover? Call Watts. Need a big stop on define? Call Watts. Need a mess in aisle nine mopped up? Call Watts. Nevermind Saul, it’s Watts that NFL teams want. Possibly the premier read-and-react safety in this year’s draft, no one is quicker to swarm to the football than Watts, who plays a physical brand of football. An instinctive playmaker who does a phenomenal job at reading the quarterback, he can swing the pendulum in a heartbeat with his propensity for the interception. An extremely pugnacious player, there are some concerns about his inconsistent tackling. For what it’s worth, Watts managed to cut down his miss tackle rate from 18.8% in 2023, to 12.6% in 2024 but he’ll need to harness some of that aggression. Overall, this is a starting caliber safety that some NFL team will be lucky to pluck if he still remains on the board on Day 2.
Quotable: "Some of them have just been concerned with my tackling. Obviously, I'm an aggressive player, so sometimes I take aggressive angles. They kind of have questioned what I do when it comes to tackling." -- Xavier Watts on his NFL feedback
Background: A fifth-year senior (55 games, 33 starts) and team captain; emerged from his soft-spoken nature to become a vocal leader on the field and off, per staff. A three-star recruit and former wideout. Won the Nebraska High School Scoreboard Show Heisman Award. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
6. MUKUBA, ANDREW | Texas | S | #4 | Sr | Austin, TX | Solid Starter | Round 3
Combine: 5112 | 186 | 0900 | 3000 | 7538 | 4.45 (1.53), 22.87 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A fast, physical defensive back who serves as an enforcer on the backend of the defense and owns cat-like instincts, along with a true nose for the ball.
Evaluation: After four productive seasons at Clemson, Mukuba transferred to Austin for his final season and enjoyed his finest campaign to date. Able to cover an immense amount of ground, his ability to close quickly enables him to prevent opposing wideouts from gaining many yards after the catch. In addition, Mukuba has an innate ability to read the quarterback and jump routes, leading to a bushel of interceptions (five) this past season. While he takes smart angles against both the run and the pass, Mukuba does have a fair amount of missed tackles, which he will need to clean up at the next level. However, his overall rapid development is an indication that his best football is still ahead of him. Blessed with prototype size, elite speed and personal background that makes playing the game of football look easy, Mukuba is a warrior ready to enter the arena and do battle on any given Sunday.
Quotable: “My time there at Clemson, I just felt like I wasn’t really getting better. I wasn’t being pushed enough to where I could reach my potential, my peak. I feel like the program wasn’t where it needed to be for me and the whole team to be successful. I feel like after (junior year), it was only right for me to transfer.” -- Andrew Mukuba on why he transferred from Clemson to Texas
Background: Came to America from Zimbabwe and discovered the gridiron in fifth grade. A four-star recruit, he would become the first true freshman to start at Clemson (35 games, 31 starts), since the school began keeping track in 1972 Played his final season at Texas (started all 15 games) and finished with career-high five picks. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
TIER 4 PROSPECTS -- AVERAGE STARTER
7. JACKSON, DAN | Georgia | DB | # 17 | Sr | Gainesville, GA | Average Starter | Round 4
Pro Day: 6001 | 194 | 0868 | 2978 | 7318 | 4.45 | n/a | 34” | 4.33 | 7.12
One-Liner: The ultimate story of an underdog who continues to prove his naysayers wrong every step of the way as a do-it-all safety with extensive special teams experience.
Evaluation: On behalf of the NFL, we would like to apologize for the failure to invite ‘Dirty Dan’ Jackson to Indianapolis. Despite the shaft, the walk-on warrior has established himself as one of the most polished safeties in this year’s draft. He possesses an impressive combination of football intelligence, toughness and speed (scouts clocked him in the 4.3-range at pro day). He’s a reliable tackler who has laid the smackdown with some momentum-changing big hits. While there are some concerns about his pass coverage ability, he seemed very capable during the week of Senior Bowl practices. It’s one department that he will need to continue to make strides in as he transitions to the pros. It’s hard to predict where Jackson will land in the draft, as there is a bias that exists amongst front office personnel when it comes to non-scholarship athletes. However, he has defied all odds, played at a high level and has experience on all special teams units, making him a safe bet to outplay/outlast many of his counterparts.
Quotable: "This is one of the greatest stories of college football that nobody talks about. I mean, the guy didn't walk on until we called him. He got in school here and said, 'Hey, coach, I would like to play football at Georgia.' Like, we didn't recruit him…This guy showed up at our doorstep, and as a starter, as a competitor, and [he’s] blocking field goals. He didn't have to come back this year. He came back because he loves this place. He loves Georgia. He don’t do it for him. He don't do it for money. He's never asked for anything. He loves the place." – Georgia HC Kirby Smart on Dan Jackson
Background: Players/coaches rave about his leadership and example he sets in the building every day. He arrived at Georgia in 2019 as a walk-on. He received scholarships from other schools but opted to turn them down, eventually earning a scholarship at UGA. Appeared in 47 career games with 19 starts. A foot injury limited Jackson to seven games in 2022. Played high school at North Hall High, where he also lettered in basketball and track. Set a school-record in the 110-meter hurdles. Majored in Agribusiness. Grew up the son of a die-hard Bulldogs fan and grandson of a Georgia graduate. Senior Bowl invite.
8. RANSOM, LATHAN | Ohio State | rSr | #8 | Sr | Tucson, AZ | Average Starter | Round 4
Combine: 6002 | 206 | 0848 | 3048 | 7518 || Pro Day: 4.53 | 20 | 36.5” | 10-1 | 4.26 | n/a
One-Liner: An aggressive defender who makes clutch plays and possesses starter traits but comes with durability concerns.
Evaluation: Serving as the last line of defense for the championship Buckeyes defense, Ransom projects as an in-the-box strong safety at the next level. He possesses a very high football IQ and is quick to diagnose plays. Combined with an aggressive, downhill thumper-style of play, it’s no coincidence that Ransom constantly finds himself in the middle of momentum-changing plays. The Arizona native owns a knack to come up clutch due to his attention to detail, such as his ball-snap anticipation on special teams (two blocked kicks) and the awareness to punch the ball loose from the ball-carrier when he goes in for the tackle. While there are some speed and range limitations, Ransom is adequate in pass coverage. Sometimes draft gems are born on Day 3 and Ransom stands a good chance to shine bright on the big stage.
Quotable: “Awesome, awesome young man. Great leader. He's just one of those guys that is why you get into coaching – to be a part of that kind of career. Lathan has had adversity injury-wise on the field and he is finishing strong. He really is. Our players have the utmost respect for him and I expect that he's going to have a great (finish) to his career.” – Ohio State DC Jim Knowles on Lathan Ransom
Background: There are some durability concerns, which stem from a broken left fibula and tibia he suffered covering during the 2021 Rose Bowl and a season-ending Lisfranc injury in 2023. A five-year player at Ohio State (55 games, 37 starts). Arrived as a four-star recruit from Salpointe Catholic High School in Tucson, Arizona. He was a top-100 national recruit. Was teammates with Bijan Robinson (Falcons) at Salpointe High School. His final college season culminated in a National Championship and First-Team All-Big Ten honors. The son of Linda and Nathan Ransom. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
9. REED, JAYLEN | Penn State | S | #1 | Sr | Detroit, MI | Average Starter | Round 4
Combine: 5115 | 211 | 0900 | 3038 | 7428 | 4.49 (1.51), 22.34 | 19 | 33.5” | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A ball-hawk safety who can be streaky at times and will need to harness some of his aggression.
Evaluation: Played in the hybrid ‘Lion’ position for Penn State this year was Reed, who served as a key cog down the middle of the defense. The Detroit native possesses a sturdy frame, natural football instincts and an extremely high motor. In fact, his aggressiveness and physicality sometimes toes the line with the referees, as Reed was called for four penalties this past year. Plus, he can tend to over-pursue at times, which can get him into trouble in the open field at times. While he has made vast strides in pass coverage, there is still room for improvement. The ideal fit for him at the next level would most likely be as an in-the-box safety, where he can best utilize his physicality and ability to sniff out the ball. Initially, Reed will likely have to make his mark on special teams, as he continues to hone his overall skill-set but there is upside to like here. The Nittany Lions have churned out some quality-caliber NFL safeties in recent years, see; Ji’Ayir Brown (49ers) and Jaquan Brisker (Bears). The confident Reed is the next in line and ready to roar.
Quotable: “I always felt like I was underrated. I still feel like I’m underrated. I see all these freaking mock drafts every single day. I’m going in the seventh round. I always take that under my belt. Don’t let the media control my head space.” – Jaylen Reed on his NFL Draft stock
Background: A four-year senior who appeared in 50 career games. Majored in recreation, park and tourism management. A four-star recruit out of Martin Luther King Jr. High School (won a state championship as a sophomore and forced eight fumbles as a junior); also played basketball and track. The son of Terrance Reed and LaToyia Johnson; stepfather is Jimmie Mitchell. Has one brother, Jimmie Mitchell, and one sister, Kayla Reed. Plays football in honor of his grandmother. Hobbies include playing video games. Would like to be a football coach or business owner after his football career is over. NFL Combine invite.
10. HOOK, MAXEN | Toledo | S | #25 | rSr | New Palestine, IN | Average Starter | Round 4
Combine: 6004 | 202 | 0918 | 3148 | 7548 | 4.55 (1.55), 22.08 | n/a | 34.5” | 10-04 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: An in-the-box tackle machine with prototype size and speed who has overachieved at the mid-major level.
Evaluation: A fifth-year senior and four-year starter, Hook is an instinctual safety who flies to the football and loves to lay the lumber. Hook is quick to diagnose plays and covers an immense amount of ground. Coming into the combine there was little buzz surrounding the mid-major product, however he would depart Indy leaving NFL scouts with something to talk about. Hook had one of the better positional drill workouts amongst the safeties in attendance, demonstrating natural instincts, ball skills and owns an excellent frame. There are few safeties expected to be drafted early, which means Hook could get pushed down to the middle rounds. His flexibility would be appealing to any organization who seeks to boost their secondary, as Hook could dual as a special teams dynamo and provide help as a nickleback.
Quotable: “One thing people don’t know is his loyalty to Toledo. He definitely had opportunities, he had Power Four and (college football) playoff teams calling. There were a lot of schools out of high school that tried to get in late but Toledo believed in him, they stole him and they know they stole him. You will not regret drafting him, he is always switched on.” New Palestine High School football HC Kyle Ralph on Maxen Hook
Background: Was a multiple All-MAC First Team Selection; brings vast special teams experience. A three-star recruit out of New Palestine High School, he guided them to winning back-to-back state championships with a perfect 14-0 record in both the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 seasons. Parents are Matt and Amy Hook. Graduated with a degree in accounting; working on his MBA in leadership. Invited to the NFL Combine and Senior Bowl.
11. SANKER, JONAS | VIRGINIA | S | #20 | Sr | Charlottesville, VA | Average Starter | Round 4
Combine: 6003 | 206 | 0968 | 3228 | 7758 | 4.48 (1.51), 22.77 | 12 | 36.5” | 10-08 | 4.48 | 7.06
One-Liner: An aggressive, physical safety whose size, speed, leadership and tenacious style provides a skill-set that is suitable to start in the NFL.
Evaluation: Blessed with the physical attributes necessary to thrive in the pros, Sanker also owns the mental acumen to be a huge asset at the next level. A dependable tackler against the run and adequate in pass coverage, he demonstrates great awareness and instincts. In addition, Sanker takes excellent angles to the ball-carrier and can close the distance between the ball-carrier in a jiffy. His frame can withstand fighting through blocks at the line of scrimmage; he’ll mix it up with the big fellas and has shown the ability to shed blocks effectively on the way to making the tackle. Toughness would be one of his more under-appreciated attributes, while Sanker also boasts special teams experience as a gunner. Expect to hear his name called somewhere during the early-to-mid rounds.
Quotable: "You know, someone said something about Brian Branch. I think I can see a lot of similarities with a guy like Brian Branch with the Lions, just because of, you know, how versatile he is and how they're able to move him around in so many different spots. And he's a great tackler, but he's also, you know, very, very violent on the ball. So I think that says a lot about my game as well." -- Jonas Sanker on who he compares to
Background: Only player in school history to win ACC Defensive Player of the Week four times in a single season (2024). The third-oldest of seven siblings. Dad, George, is 57 and lives with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and can no longer form words. A three-star recruit at The Covenant School, was all-state on both sides of the ball and also a basketball standout. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
12. TRADER JR, DANTE | Maryland | S | # 12 | Sr | Delmar, DE | Average Starter | Round 5
Combine: 5107 | 196 | 0878 | 3128 | 7518 | n/a | 12 | 31” | 9-9 | 4.32 | 7.09
One-Liner: A flexible defensive back who can line up at either safety spot, or nickelback with sharp react-and-react acumen.
Evaluation: A three-year starter who can play either safety spot, Trader demonstrates fluid athleticism, along with the adaptability to play in the box, or freelance as a center fielder. A member of the Terrapins lacrosse team early in his collegiate career, Trader possesses physicality and aggressiveness that consistently shows up on film. In addition, he has been praised by coaches for his leadership both on and off the field. Senior Bowl invite.
Quotable: “He’s always working, always doing extra, always in the film room. On the field, you’re gonna see a smart, reliable player, he’s gonna make plays. And then off the field, you couldn’t ask for nobody better, he does all the right things, he’s a great leader in the locker room. I’m excited for him.” – Former teammate and current Raiders cornerback Jakorian Bennett
Background: Started 35-of-47 career games. Limited to 10 games in 2024 (injury); also played lacrosse for Maryland early on in his collegiate career. Was the No.5 lacrosse player in the nation coming out of McDonald High, where he also starred on the gridiron. He is the son of Dante Sr. and Roniell. His father played football at Widener. Majored in African American Studies. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
13. MICKENS, RJ | Clemson | S | #9 | Sr | Southlake, TX | Average Starter | Round 5
Combine: 6000 | 199 | 0878 | 3228 | 7758 | 4.49 (1.55), 23.10 | n/a | 41.5” | 10-01 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A Clemson legacy player with tremendous experience and athleticism.
Evaluation: One of the permanent team captains for the Tigers, Mickens is a consummate professional who has been praised by coaches for his leadership. He is very adept in zone coverage when defending the pass. There were questions surrounding his timed speed heading into Indianapolis but Mickens Jr. seems to have squashed any concerns with his athletic testing. That said, he is not as fluid of a mover and doesn't quite flip the hips quick enough to be able to keep up with some of the speedier targets. Overall, Mickens Jr. can contribute immediately on special teams, while providing depth as a backup to either safety spot, or nickelback. He tends to be most comfortable in the box.
Background: Owns NFL bloodlines; the son of former Texas A&M All-American defensive back Ray Mickens, Sr, a third-round pick in the 1996 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. A top recruit out of Carroll High School in Southlake, Texas.
14. WOODSON, CRAIG | California | S | #2 | rSr | Grand Prairie, TX | Average Starter | Round 5
Combine: 6001 | 200 | 0868 | 3048 | 7528 | 4.45 (1.53), 22.67 | 13 | 36” | 10-07 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A well-rounded safety who can contribute against both the run and the pass but does tend to struggle with size at times.
Evaluation: The combination of size, experience and athletic traits is what makes Woodson draw mass appeal. In addition, he adds reliability and durability. The Texas native demonstrates excellent read-and-react skills, along with quick closing ability. A solid tackler, Woodson does need to learn how to disengage and do a better job of shedding blocks, as he transitions to the pros. He constantly showed up around the football this past year and continued to improve each season. Add to the fact that Woodson brings vast special teams experience and this is an ascending prospect who should hear his name called in the middle rounds.
Background: A sixth-year senior who spent his entire career at Cal. A former two-star recruit turned team captain. Suffered a season-ending injury during training camp in 2021. Graduated from Cal in May of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in film and media before adding a graduate certificate in business administration in December of 2023. Participated in Marshawn Lynch's Fam 1st Family turkey drive on Thanksgiving Day 2019. The son of Gregory and Hellen Woodson. NFL Combine and East-West Shrine Bowl invite.
TIER 5 PROSPECTS -- BACKUP
15. MOORE, MALACHI | Alabama | S | #13 | Sr | Trussville, AL | Backup | Round 5
Combine: 5112 | 196 | 0900 | 2958 | 7528 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: One of the more flexible defensive backs in the draft with his ability to play either safety spot and nickelback.
Evaluation: A read-and-react with experience playing multiple spots in the secondary, in addition to special teams, Moore brings a strong overall skill-set. He demonstrates quick closing speed against the run and is a solid wrap up tackler. In addition, Moore has great awareness and does a nice job getting his head turned around, while keeping himself between the ball and receiver. However, he falls short in the size category and has just average speed. Moore likes to wear his emotions on his sleeve, something he’ll need to keep in check at the next level. The Crimson Tide two-time team captain shoved quarterback Diego Pavia late for a personal foul call during a game against Vanderbilt this past year. Moore then proceeded to have a meltdown, in which he chucked his mouthpiece across the field, an incident that he chalks up to the fact that he, ‘just lost it.’ For now, it should be chalked up to his competitiveness and intensity. Moore is viewed as a mid-to-late round prospect who can be an asset as a valuable backup.
Quotable: “He’s a great player, man, he’s physical…using the shoulder pads to break the ball up, that’s a tone-setter… we love hitting. So, when a big hit happens like that, everybody gets fired up.” - Alabama safety Bray Hubbard on Malachi Moore
Background: A fifth-year senior and team captain at Alabama (2020-24); earned starting role as a true freshman and was named to SEC All-Freshman Team. A decorated four-star recruit out of Hewitt-Trussville High School (2019); selected to play in All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Father (Torrey Moore); Played basketball for Middle Tennessee State (1990s). NFL Combine invite.
16. CLARK, ALIJAH | Syracuse | S | #5 | Sr | Camden, NJ | Backup | Round 6
Combine: 6006 | 188 | 0948 | 3078 | 7768 | 4.50 (1.53), 21.97 | n/a | 33” | 10-02 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: A lengthy, physical in the box defensive back, versatile enough to play either safety spot.
Evaluation: The speedy Clark possesses incredible athleticism, along with natural ball skills and toughness. A three-year starter, Clark has a propensity to make tackles behind the line of scrimmage and flashes active hands, batting down passes. While Clark is long and can match up against some of the bigger wideouts and tight ends, he’ll need to bulk up for the next level step up in size. He can tend to lack focus at times, per coaches. Overall, he projects as a valuable backup who can step in and fill multiple safety/slot roles on defense.
Background: Was given a ‘half’ game suspension in November of 2023 for violation of team rules. Transfer from Rutgers; followed Syracuse head coach Fran Brown. Majoring in communications and rhetorical studies in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. A four-star recruit coming out of high school. Nicknamed ‘Cinco.’ Entering 2024: has appeared in 32 collegiate games. NFL Combine and East-West Shrine Bowl invite.
17. CASTRO, SEBASTIAN | Iowa | DB | # 29 | rSr | 4.48 | Oak Lawn, IL | Backup | Round 6
Combine: 5112 | 203 | 1048 | 3068 | 7438 | 4.59 (1.59), 22.03 | 30.5” | 09-09 | 4.34 | n/a
One-Liner: A smart, disciplined player with vast experience and sound instincts but comes with athletic limitations which could make it difficult to identify a true position in the pros.
Evaluation: The versatile Castro was employed in the LEO/CASH position in the Hawkeyes’ 4-2-5 hybrid defensive scheme. It was a safety/linebacker role that required him to be equally adept in both pass coverage and supporting the run. Castro brings a physical aggression, crashes the line with intent and is a willing tackler. However, he can be easily manipulated by imposing blockers and be rendered a non-factor at times. While his instincts are good, Castro, he’s a bit stiff in the hips and limited athletically. Castro was a tremendous collegiate talent in his own right. However, he could find it difficult to enjoy similar success as a pro. His speed and movement skills could leave him vulnerable to mismatches at safety and he doesn’t quite have the size, nor the strength to stick at linebacker. He’ll likely be used as a strong safety who roams close to the line of scrimmage but Castro will need to contribute on special teams. Otherwise, he would be an excellent SAM backer in the CFL, if his NFL career doesn’t pan out.
Quotable: “I feel like I just set myself apart just doing my job, really. I feel like I’m a great football player. I feel like it all just starts with passion. I’m a passionate person, so it makes me a passionate player. So it starts with that and then it just trickles down to other things. I think I’m a mentally tough person, so I feel like I benefit a lot from that when it comes to playing football, but on top of that, at the end of the day, I just love football. – Sebastian Castro on what separates him from the competition
Background: A fifth-year senior and three-year starter for the Hawkeyes (two-time All-Big Ten selection). Played defensive back and quarterback at Richards High, making explosive plays with his legs on both sides of the ball, serving as a two-time team captain and guiding his school to a 12-1 record as a senior. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite. One of the older players in the draft, will be a 25-year old rookie in October.
18. CRAWFORD, KITAN | Nevada | S | #4 | Sr | Tyler, TX | Backup | Round 6
Combine: 5105 | 202 | 0948 | 3100 | 7528 | 4.41 (1.52), 23.31 | 18 | 41.5” | 10-08 | 4.03 | 6.81
One-Liner: An in the box safety who moonlights at nickelback and has experience on all special teams.
Evaluation: The last line of defense for the Wolf Pack, Crawford displays great closing speed and instincts. His versatility and special teams prowess is what will be alluring to teams as a bottom of the roster candidate. Crawford has had some opportunities in the open field where he could really set himself and deliver the blow but tends to shy away from these opportunities. He can make the play but also allows players to gain additional yardage when they should be stopped in their tracks. Overall, it would seem he lacks the necessary size and strength to be a regular defensive contributor but he does own top-level speed and can play multiple spots, so he’ll get a good, hard look-see.
Background: Spent first four seasons at Texas (Honorable Mention Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year in 2023) before finishing up at Nevada. Attended John Tyler High School. Mother is Natika Johnson and stepfather is Eric Johnson. NFL Combine and Hula Bowl invite.
19. SIGLE, MARQUES | S | #21 | Sr | Omaha, NE | Backup | Round 7
Combine: 5113 | 199 | 0928 | 3068 | 7400 | 4.37 (1.50), 23.53 | 18 | 38” | 10-10 | n/a | n/a
One-Liner: One of the fastest players in the draft who can help boost special teams asap.
Evaluation: An instinctive safety with the speed and versatility, Sigle possesses top shelf athletic testing. He’s an aggressive defender who has created a lot of turnovers, has a knack for interceptions and has made big plays at the FCS and FBS levels. His agility and quickness allow him to cover a lot of ground quickly, in addition to adding value on special teams. Sigle comes in just under ideal size and is streaky in man coverage. He’ll begin on special teams and fill in at nickelback as he continues to develop at the next level.
Background: Played in 50 career games, including the final 25 of his career at K-State after transferring in from North Dakota State; started every game he played for the Wildcats. Majored in business administration. A three-year starter and two-year captain at Omaha North; also competed in track. The son of Calvin and Natassha Sigle. Has four sibling, Calvin Jr., Quinzell, Tyrell and ToneshaPronounced mar-KEECE SEE-gull. East-West Shrine Bowl and combine invite.
20. WOHLER, HUNTER | S | #24 | Sr | Muskego, WI | Backup | Round 7
Combine: 6020 | 213 | 0928 | 3058 | 7538 | 4.57 (1.54), 21.87 | n/a | 37” | 10-00 | 4.25 | 6.72
One-Liner: A big, fast, physical safety with sideline-to-sideline ball-hawk prowess.
Evaluation: The sturdy-framed Wohler has a nose for sniffing out the run, as he is quick to find the ball and is a reliable tackler. An elite combine tester, his numbers don’t always translate on the field, as he can be a liability against some of the faster backs and tight ends. While Wohler brings an extremely high football IQ, he does tend to take bad angles at times and he could stand to benefit from cleaning up some of his footwork. Ultimately, a move to linebacker might be in the best interests of continuing his playing career.
Quotable: "Having three different position coaches while I was there, two different coordinators and two different playbooks, it’s not always the most fun having to transition and build those new relationships but it’s a bit of a blessing in disguise. You’re forced to learn a new playbook. You’re forced to be thrown in these new positions that maybe you haven’t played before.” – Hunter Wohler on his various coaches
Background: Over four years, played under three different position coaches, two defensive coordinators—Jim Leonhard and Mike Tressel—and three head coaches, starting with Paul Chryst, followed by Leonhard in an interim role, and finishing under Luke Fickell. Battled injuries as a sophomore. A double-major in business, studying Real Estate & Urban Land Economics/Management & Human Resources. Grew up on the water, jet-skiing. Muskego High School was undefeated during his three varsity seasons, going 37-0 and winning two state titles. Was named 2021 Gatorade State Player of the Year. Completed High School with a weighted 4.29 GPA. NFL Combine and Senior Bowl invite.
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