College Football Week 3: NFL Draft big board rankings
Jaire Alexander
CB, Louisville
Lamar Jackson isn’t the only first round caliber prospect on Louisville’s roster, as Alexander has proven himself worthy of a spot on the big board, although an injury could slow him down.
Alexander was unable to play in Louisville’s 12-point win over North Carolina to open ACC play after suffering a leg injury on a blocked field goal attempt in the Cardinals victory against Purdue due weeks ago. While the coaching staff is calling Alexander day-to-day, he was unable to take the field a week later, and there hasn’t been a definitive update for his injury status this week against Clemson.
After seeing the field minimally as a freshman, the preseason All-American emerged out of nowhere as a star in 2016. Alexander was one of the most productive corners in the nation with five interceptions to go along with 39 tackles and nine pass breakups.
As those interception numbers would indicate, Alexander is one of the best ballhawking defensive backs in the country, and his aggressive play style complements his athleticism nicely. Alexander will be a bit too small for some teams at 5-11 and 192 pounds, but his playmaking ability both on defense and special teams is a difference maker.
If Alexander is able to play on Saturday, he will get a tough test against the superior athleticism of the Clemson offense.