2017 NFL Draft: 10 Most underrated prospects heading into offseason

Iowa Hawkeyes cornerback Desmond King made the decision to stay with the program for his senior season rather than declare for the NFL draft last year. Although King tends to get lost in the shuffle of an extremely deep class of defensive backs in this year’s draft, the Iowa prospect should still belong in the conversation as one of the best.

King finished his career with the Hawkeyes with 14 interceptions, including eight during the 2015 season. He only had three interceptions this season, but King was also able to deflect seven passes while adding 3.5 tackles for loss and one pick six.

Some scouts think that King would be best suited as a safety at the next level, but wherever he plays, King is going to make an impact. He’s got quick hips and excellent speed to cover the field with the ball skills to break up passes or create turnovers. King’s biggest asset, however, is his tackling ability, as he rarely misses on tackles and isn’t afraid to wrap up.

The Iowa star is also a reliable return man because of his speed, making him a potential asset on special teams. While he’s the best safety in press coverage and can sometimes get lost by reading the QB’s eyes in zone, King is instinctive and athletic enough to make plays all over the field.

He may not be the flashiest cornerback in this draft class, but King has almost all of the tools that an NFL team needs in a starting corner.