NFL Draft 2018 player rankings – Saquon Barkley worthy of top pick?
Jaire Alexander
CB, Louisville
Jaire Alexander still hasn’t returned to the field since his opening week injury, but he should be back very soon. The Louisville cornerback is making sure he’s completely healthy before getting back on the field.
He should be just back in time for the stretch run of the season. The Cardinals bounced back with a win this week after losing to Clemson at home last week. Alexander’s return should really spark the defense when he gets back.
It will be interesting to see if they have him back on punt returns when he gets back, but if he is that will also be an added dimension. His ability to find the football and create turnovers are something the Cardinals miss from him.
While the team has been fine in his absence, he makes them that much better. His coverage skills are some of the best in the nation and his added bonus of being a big time special teams player makes him all the more special.
Micah Kiser
LB, Virginia
With each passing week, Micah Kiser continues to climb draft boards. His stock is on the rise because of his versatility. After showing off his ability to get after the quarterback last week, Kiser was showing off his coverage skills this week.
He had two passes defensed and was moving sideline to sideline as he racked up nine total tackles on the day in a road win over Boise State. For a Virginia program that didn’t have the highest of expectations to begin the year, they’re off to a nice start.
Kiser has really separated himself from the other linebackers in the country and is going to be a leader wherever he ends up. High tackle totals, sacks and great plays in coverage are guaranteed each week from him.
That’s what teams want from their linebackers inside in the NFL and he fits the mold perfectly. He’s definitely been one of the biggest beneficiaries from a great start to the season this year for Virginia.