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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Week 14

By Connor Muldowney

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 /

. S. Ohio State. Malik Hooker. 24. player. 124

Ohio State has one of the most athletic teams in the entire country and it’s loaded with underclassmen. Malik Hooker could be the top defensive back chosen out of Buckeye territory in this year’s class and he’s only a redshirt sophomore.

Hooker played very little as a redshirt freshman in 2015, but with both safeties departing, a major opportunity opened up. He responded by posting breakout numbers for the Buckeyes and leading them to a playoff appearance and a matchup with Clemson in the opening round.

The sophomore has played in all 12 games this season, recording 67 tackles, showing he’s not afraid of contact, and picking off six passes and returning three for touchdowns. He also has four pass deflections. This kid is an absolute game-changer in the secondary and he has his immense athleticism to thank for that.

Kansas City has one of the better defenses in the league, but the Chiefs have struggled a bit against the pass this season. They might decide to rebuild, starting with the safety position which has been a bit underwhelming. Hooker has great field vision and he has the skill of reading a quarterback’s eyes perfectly.

Hooker recently mentioned that he plans on returning to Ohio State next season, but that could change if the Buckeyes win the national championship. Don’t expect this kid to hang around too late in the draft as he could be a steal at No. 24 to the Chiefs if he does end up declaring.

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