Three Tigers listed in SI.com's NFL Mock Draft |
Sports Illustrated released its
2016 NFL Mock Draft on Wednesday and three Clemson defenders were listed in the first two rounds.
Defensive end Shaq Lawson was projected to the New York Giants at the #10th selection and was the second defensive lineman off the board. "Super Bowl 50 offered the latest reminder that a potent pass rush can undermine just about any team in the league," SI.com said. "The Giants are lacking there, and Lawson is a force." Lawson finished the season with 86 tackles, 25.5 tackles for loss (led the nation), 12.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hurries.
Defensive back Mackensie Alexander was projected to go to the Oakland Raiders at the #14 selection in the first round.
"His height notwithstanding, the 5' 11" Alexander has the look of an eventual No. 1 NFL cornerback," SI.com said. "I say “eventual” because college quarterbacks’ reluctance to test him combined with his limited experience (he was a redshirt sophomore in 2015) presents limited tape. When the ball was thrown his direction, Alexander clamped down on receivers, erasing space with a physical demeanor."
The Tigers with Alexander were the number two defense in the country in passes completed holding opponents to 47.6 completion percentage. In 638 snaps this season, QBs completed 11 passes vs. Alexander.
Defensive end Kevin Dodd with his impressive three-sack performance in the National Championship game was predicted to go in the second round to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the #39 selection.
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