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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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Apr 8, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Marcus Maye (20) looks on in the fourth quarter during the Orange and Blue game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Blue won 38-6. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Marcus Maye (20) looks on in the fourth quarter during the Orange and Blue game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Blue won 38-6. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /

Florida Gators safety Marcus Maye had a quiet senior season by his own standards, but he missed the last four games of 2016 with a broken arm. Maye was still part of a unit that allowed just 16.8 points (6th in the FBS) and 148.5 passing yards per game in 2016. He was selected to second-team All-SEC for his play and gives pro teams an NFL-ready body with room for development in the NFL Draft.

Maye had 50 total tackles (29 solo, 21 assisted), five pass breakups and an interception in 2016. In his junior season, he earned USA Today All-American honors with 77 total tackles (43 solo, 34 assisted), 6 pass breakups, 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries and 2 interceptions. He was third in the conference that season in forced fumbles and eighth in the FBS.

The senior safety split time at the nickel back and safety positions in 2014. He’s got solid tackling ability at 6-foot and 210-pounds and has good instincts in pass and run support.

Related Story: NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 10 quarterbacks

Maye didn’t perform at the NFL Combine remains one of the top-rated defensive backs in this year’s NFL Draft. He’s currently projected to be a second-round pick.

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