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NFL Draft 2017: Five Late-Round Hidden Gems

By Erich Hilkert

Dec 28, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Josh Reynolds (11) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Kansas State Wildcats at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Josh Reynolds (11) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Kansas State Wildcats at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

1. player. 13. Round 5, Pick 7 (151). Safety. Iowa. Desmond King

While Desmond King thrived at cornerback at Iowa, the general consensus is he will need to move to safety in the NFL. King simply doesn’t have the foot speed to consistently line up at cornerback.

The Chargers drafted safety Rayshawn Jenkins in the fourth round ahead of King. King may compete with Jenkins and veteran Dwight Lowery for a starting role at free safety, depending on how Gus Bradley slots his roster. Having Lowery teach him the nuances of the position would be beneficial, as it will be an adjustment from cornerback.

Still, King was one of the best values in the draft in the fifth round. He had been rated as highly as early second round at one point. His slower 40 time likely hurt his stock. However, King has already shown the qualities of a potential starting free safety down the line.

Next: 10 Best Moments of 2017 NFL Draft

Additionally, King can earn immediate playing time on special teams after serving as Iowa’s primary kick and punt returner.

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