NFL Draft – SS Rankings
Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
11.) Daniel Sorenson, BYU (6’1, 205): Elite agility and change of direction skills. Sorenson had the fastest 3-cone, 20 yard shuttle, and 60-yard shuttle times at the combine and it wasn’t even close. His 3-cone was .43 faster than the closest guy and his 60-yard shuttle was almost a full second faster than the next guy. Tough, a sound tackler and a hard-worker, but lacks recovery speed (4.67 at combine) and struggles a bit in deep coverage. Sorenson should be at least a solid back-up who can play in a pinch and could be a stand-out on special teams. Draft projection: 6th-7th round
12.) BooBoo Gates, Bowling Green (5’11, 227): You won’t find Gates on many prospect lists, but he is a well-rounded strong safety with enough skills to play at the next level. He’s a good hitter against the run, solid in coverage, and explosive enough to return two kicks and a punt for TDs during his college career. Gates will excel on special teams coverage off the bat, is a dangerous return man, and has the potential to develop into a starting safety down the road. Draft projection: 7th round – UFA
13.) Alden Darby, Arizona St (5’10, 197): Undersized, but versatile safety who could play either safety spot if needed. Darby played strong safety in college, but played free safety at the Shrine game and had two interceptions. I saw quite a few of Darby’s games living a few blocks from ASU’s stadium and he was one of my favorite players on the defense. He always seemed to be in the right place and made a lot of big plays thorughout the season. He’s small, but effective. Draft projection: 7th round – UFA
14.) Nat Berhe, San Diego St (5’11, 193): Undersized and lacks great speed, but is a fundamentally sound tackler with good instincts and the quickness to excel in coverage on short-to-intermediate routes. Solid player who is probably better suited as a back-up but could surprise and earn a starting gig somewhere. Either way, Berhe should be an excellent special teams player. Draft projection: 7th round – UFA
15.) Sean Parker, Washington (5’10, 193): He’s undersized but strong in run support and has had some highlight reel hits during his college career. His height limits his coverage ability but he has good hands if he can get to the ball (11 Ints last 3 seasons). Parker should be a solid gunner on special teams and could surprise on defense if given the chance. Draft projection: 7th round – UFA