6. S Michael Hamlin, Clemson, 6'2", 214
Possibly the best all-around safety in the draft, Hamlin knows how to both play deep in coverage and attack the line of scrimmage. While making the secure tackle is Hamlin's priority, he's not afraid to go for the big hit.
Either way, he usually maintains complete control and balance, while keeping wide receivers in front of him.
Similar to another Michael, namely, Tennessee Titans safety Michael Griffin, Hamlin's all-around game will likely keep him from being a major play-maker in coverage. His average speed and cover skills will likely limit him, but he still retains the potential to be an above average safety in the NFL.
A cerebral player of Hamlin's character has a long career for a team looking to build a strong defense around solid leadership.
7. S Rashad Johnson, Alabama, 5'11", 203
Making the big play was, undoubtedly, Johnson's forte at Alabama. A very aggressive safety by nature, Johnson always has his nose around the ball and shows the awareness to find it in the air.
With such diminutive size, Johnson's questions will begin and end with his thin frame and the possible durability issues that come with it.
Although he has very smooth hips and athleticism, Johnson's playmaking ability may eventually lead to significant injuries.
Yet despite his small frame, Johnson always plays bigger than his size indicates and isn't afraid to mix it up at the line of scrimmage, making him an ideal fit for a defense like the Philadelphia Eagles.
8. OG Trevor Canfield, Cincinnati, 6'5", 307
The other half of the tandem that made my list based completely on film, Canfield is consistently one of the nastiest and toughest men on the field. When he goes against the opposition, he is always strong at the point of attack.
As with Britton, I immediately noticed his hand punch, and his ability to maintain balance and position throughout the play. Also like Britton, he lacks the athleticism of many guards when he is forced to pull for running plays.
Without putting on extra weight, Canfield would fit best in a zone-blocking scheme, where he could lock onto defenders and play in a limited area.
9. RB Jeremiah Johnson, Oregon, 5'9", 209
An "all-purpose" back by trade, Johnson has the versatility to play in the NFL as a complimentary receiving back, but also as a returner on special teams. Lacking explosive speed and immense size, Johnson does not have the physical attributes that most NFL teams search for.
Yet despite his lack of game-breaking ability, he runs with great balance and knows how to stay on his feet after contact.
Although Johnson will likely have trouble with pass protection at the beginning of his pro career, his natural hands and what I believe is one of the best stiffarms I saw this year, should allow him to contribute to a team looking for a second or third back willing to work hard as an NFL rookie.
After watching former teammate Jonathan Stewart make the transition so easily in his rookie season, Johnson could eventually find himself a part of his own rotation as a valuable piece of a playoff team.
10. DT Terrance Taylor, Michigan, 6'0", 306
As the only Michigan Wolverine on my list, Taylor has a lot to live up to. Being one of the few Michigan players likely to be drafted this year, Taylor has the responsibility of dedicating himself to representing the maize and blue.
After gaining some of his normal playing weight back, Taylor should be able able to contribute as a very solid nose tackle in the NFL. Being only 6'0" allows Taylor to play close to the ground and use his strength to gain leverage over opposing offensive linemen.
His bulk and strength should allow Taylor to clog the running lanes, but also disrupt the backfield whenever he has an opening.
As mainly a run stopper in the NFL, Taylor will have to keep his weight under control. While watching him at Michigan, it was obvious he wasn't in the best of shape. For Taylor to utilize his strength and push the center into the backfield, he must keep himself in maximal condition.
If he can stay in shape, Taylor will have a very long career and be able to break the "less than fit" image set by former Michigan and current NFL defensive tackles Alan Branch and Gabe Watson.
With so many unknowns and so many immeasurables that must be taken into consideration when drafting players, NFL teams must do their homework in order to maximize their draft picks.
Talent scouts could truly prove their worth if they are able to grab one of these possible steals later than their talent indicates.
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