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2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 4.0 – The Free-Agency Update

By David Harrison

Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Darron Lee speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Darron Lee speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Darron Lee. 10. player. 31. . LB. Ohio State

It’s rare a team has three top-10 prospects, but that’s exactly what the Buckeyes have produced with Darron Lee going to the New York Giants at number ten.

An athletic player who is fearless when shooting the gap to penetrate against the run, and fast enough with cover skills to play the slot or trail backs leaking out of the backfield, Lee has helped himself immensely since the collegiate season came to a close. His scouting combine performance, followed by more of the same at his pro day, has placed Lee squarely among the drafts top candidates.

Linebacker isn’t the only need for this team, and finding a safety to play next to last year’s top rookie Landon Collins is also a priority. This only strengthens Lee’s case for the 10th overall selection however, as many see his skills as an indicator he may be able to transition to the position if needed.

With linebacker and safety talent expected to be available in the second round, Lee should be able to shift to wherever the team needs him, and contribute on special teams at the same time.

Going along with newly signed defenders Olivier Vernon, Janoris Jenkins, Damon Harrison, and the re-signed Jason Pierre-Paul, Lee will be a great addition to a defense poised to make the jump as the NFC East’s best defense.

 

Previous Pick:  Darron Lee – LB – Ohio State

Next: 11. Chicago Bears

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