2017 NFL Draft: 10 Most underrated prospects heading into offseason

There are some really talented safeties in this draft class, including guys like LSU’s Jamal Adams, Ohio State’s Malik Hooker and Michigan’s Jabrill Peppers. However, when it comes to safeties with a nose for the ball, Washington’s Budda Baker belongs near the top of the list.

On paper, Baker doesn’t get the attention he deserves because he comes in at just 5-foot-10 and 192 pounds. However, Baker was still one of the most productive all-around safeties in college football this season with 71 tackles including 10 for loss, three sacks, two interceptions and six passes deflected.

Despite his small frame, Baker continues to add weight and get stronger. He’s a fast and aggressive safety with plenty of range to cover the entire field. He’s also surprisingly disruptive when playing at the line of scrimmage, eluding blockers on his way to the ball carrier.

Baker is a reliable safety against the run or in pass coverage. While he can occasionally whiff in the open field, Baker is still a willing and aggressive tackler. Teams may consider moving Baker to cornerback at the NFL, but given his instincts and aggressiveness, he could probably thrive at the next level as a nickel corner who can blitz off of the edge.

The Huskies have plenty of NFL prospects coming out this year, but Baker belongs near the top of that list.