With the 55th-overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins selected linebacker Raekwon McMillan from the University of Alabama.
McMillan was one of many defensive stars Ohio State produced for this class, and he might have the most upside yet to be discovered. Unlike most of the other draftees, McMillan is just 20 years old, giving teams ample time to groom him into a three-down linebacker who can play against both the pass and run.
As both a sophomore and junior, McMillan was honored as an all-Big Ten standout, earning second-team mention in 2015 before jumping to first-team last season. McMillan projects to be an inside linebacker who has the speed to cover tight ends and backs, but also has enough strength to take on a fullback or guard before making a tackle in the box.
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 240
40-time: 4.61
Bench: 23 reps
Vertical: 33”
Broad: 121”
3-cone: 7.15
The main question with McMillan is how good can he become, beyond what he already is? If he doesn’t improve much, he’s an average linebacker who can help a team but not be one of the focal points. Obviously, this would be a disappointment. However, his skill set suggests that some coaching could do wonders.
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Again, at only 20 years old, there should be ample room for growth. If that happens, McMillan could very well end up being a steal, but there is some risk factor that has to be taken into account. And, as always, there is the concern that he was carried by some of the better players surrounded him at Ohio State. Time will tell.