2022 NFL Draft: 3 Best options for Jaguars No.1 pick

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Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton (14) intercepts a pass intended for Purdue tight end Payne Durham (87) in the end zone during the fourth quarter of an NCAA football game, Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend.2. Kyle Hamilton: Safety, Notre Dame /

When reporters asked Arizona Cardinals’ linebacker Isaiah Simmons, what position he played during an NFL Combine interview, he replied, “defense.” The same could be said of Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton. Also, like Simmons, Hamilton might begin his career at safety but not stay there.

Jacksonville has two good, young safeties in Andre Cisco and Daniel Thomas, but it would not be a surprise if the Jags decide to take the best prospect in the draft. Jacksonville could ask Hamilton to add 15-20 pounds and play linebacker with the departure of Myles Jack. Today’s NFL requires versatile cover players, and Hamilton is just that.

Hamilton can patrol the deep half or deep third, come down and cover the slot, come down and cover the tight end and even cover running backs. Versatility is the name of the game, and Hamilton is versatile.

Many scouts compare Hamilton to Kam Chancellor. What is most striking about Hamilton’s tape is how easy he makes the game look at times. He is smooth and easy out of breaks in coverage and finds the ball effortlessly.

Hamilton also can play downhill against the run and blitz from the safety position.

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