2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 12

Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs for a large gain after a reception during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs for a large gain after a reception during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

35. . S. Ohio State. Malik Hooker. 12. player

After taking a wide receiver with their first selection, the Titans can probably afford to look at the best player available with their second first-round pick. Looking at who is still on the board, Ohio State’s Malik Hooker could be a welcome addition to Tennessee’s defense.

Hooker might have the best ball skills of any defensive back in this draft class. As Ohio State’s star safety, Hooker stays in the defensive backfield and reads the eyes of the quarterback before taking off and trying to jump the route.

Along with those elite ball skills, Hooker has the speed and fluid hips to cover the field sideline to sideline. Hooker can sometimes bite on the play fake, but if he can work on that, then he could become a key contributor to a defense like Tennessee’s.