2015 NFL Draft: Landon Collins Emerging As Top Defender

Sep 20, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Landon Collins (26) celebrates his interception in the fourth quarter of their game against the Florida Gators at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama won 42-21. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

It’s one thing to say that Alabama safety Landon Collins is the best defensive back of the 2015 NFL draft class.  Some however think he’s the best defender.  Period.  That is high praise especially given the wealth of defensive talent that is eligible for 2015.

Collins considered better than Mark Barron and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix

The reasoning for the high marks comes not just from his play on the field, which has been exceptional.  He leads the Crimson Tide with 32 tackles and also had a huge interception that keyed their win over Florida.  An AFC scout went so far as to say that Collins is the best of the safeties Alabama has produced over the past few years, which includes Mark Barron and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, both of whom were highly graded 1st round draft picks and are now starters in Tampa Bay and Green Bay.

"“If you look at him, he plays special teams, he plays defense, and he’s all out. He’s just a football player. Good range, good hands, explosive tackler, always around the ball. … Barron was a good player, but more of a thumper. Ha Ha was more rangy. This guy is a mixture of both.”"

As yet Landon Collins has not declared himself for the 2015 NFL draft.  He’s likely waiting to see how the rest of his season plays out.  If he does well he’s almost certain to be a top pick come next April.  He’ll have a chance to pad his stats against Ole Miss, a team that has delivered six interceptions on the season.