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NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 10 defensive backs

By Jerran Anderson

Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) carries the ball as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) defends during the first half at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) carries the ball as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) defends during the first half at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-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 /

Malik Hooker is the last of a slew of Ohio State Buckeyes’ defensive backs in this year’s deep draft class. Hooker proved to be a great anchor on the Buckeyes’ defense in 2016.

The early draft entree had 74 total tackles (43 solo, 31 assisted), 7 interceptions, 5.5 tackles for loss, 4 pass breakups and three interception returns for touchdowns. He was a first-team All-American and Big-Ten selection after making 13 starts in his final collegiate season.

Hooker had a 16-yard interception return for a touchdown in the season finale 30-27 double overtime victory over Michigan back on November 26. He also had seven tackles.

He had seven tackles and an interception against the Clemson Tigers in the College Football Playoff Semifinal, but it wasn’t enough in a 31-0 shutout. Hooker, did however, injure himself in that game and as a result, didn’t perform at the NFL Combine after undergoing surgery.

Despite lingering injury concerns, Hooker is still being looked at as a top safety in this year’s draft. He’s currently projected to be a top 10 pick.

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