2019 NFL Draft: Names to keep an eye on at NFL Combine

Safety

This safety group is extremely intriguing, as currently the top prospect in the class is an FCS player from Delaware, slotted over an Alabama center fielder. That, however, could change after a week in Indianapolis. As not many names outside of the top-three prospects are generating much buzz, look out for those guys sitting at the top of the big board at the safety position.

Nasir Adderley, Delaware

Small school, big dreams. Adderley enters the 2019 NFL Draft, despite coming from Delaware in the FCS. With the chance to become the second first rounder in school history, joining Joe Flacco, Adderley enters the pre-draft process as the top safety on many big boards.

Playing both corner and safety with the Blue Hens, Adderley is no liability in coverage, and with his 6-0, 200-pound frame, he is no chicken in the run game either. Having a productive senior year and a productive Senior Bowl, Adderley has another chance in Indianapolis to be just that: productive.

Deionte Thompson, Alabama

The other safety that finds himself as the top safety on some boards is Deionte Thompson. A big-bodied safety at 6-2 and right around 200 pounds, Thompson is known for his aggressive style of play, though almost too aggressive as he has a tendency to over pursue and jump routes too early.

A safety that can play in the box or deep over the top, Thompson has flexibility and versatility that make him an attractive prospect. The Combine will be an interesting time for him, although his weaknesses do not pertain to his athleticism, but rather his tape. Keep an eye on how he interviews with teams.

Taylor Rapp, Washington

Taylor Rapp, a name that has been gathering a lot of buzz over the past few weeks, but does not have the cover skills to jump Thompson and Adderley. The stout 6-0, 200-pound safety logged four sacks, five tackles for loss and two picks during his 2018 campaign with the Huskies. His skills would be best utilized with a team seeking a hard hitter who can play well against the run and in the box.

Needing to show he has the burst to play over the top, testing well in speed and agility drills will go a long way for Rapp who is not known to show the range to cover the field. A hot name at this point, Rapp should see his name get even hotter after his trip to Indianapolis.