NFL Draft: Week 4 Prospect Stock Report

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Sep 26, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Central Michigan Chippewas running back Jahray Hayes (11) is tackled by Michigan State Spartans defensive end Shilique Calhoun (89) during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. MSU won 30-10. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Defense: Draft Stock Up

Shilique Calhoun (DE – Michigan State)

 Shilique Calhoun is one of the top edge rushers in college football, but has been wildly inconsistent at Michigan State. When he’s on his game, as he was against Central Michigan, Calhoun looks like a first-round pick.

Simply put, Calhoun was unstoppable. He made his presence felt not only on defense, but on special teams as well. The senior finished the game with 2.5 sacks, three tackles for a loss and a blocked field goal. It didn’t matter who he lined up across from, Calhoun had his way.

His motor around the edge in addition to a solid display of power had been missing earlier this season. This was a statement game for Calhoun, who proved he can have success both against the run and the pass.

 Jeremy Cash (SS – Duke)

Against Georgia Tech’s triple-option offense, Jeremy Cash played about as well as a safety possibly could. The senior finished the Duke victory with 12 tackles, three for a loss, two forced fumbles and a sack. These type of stat lines are typically reserved for outside linebackers, not safeties.

The Blue Devils typically play with three safeties, so Cash lines up all over the field. On one play he may lineup at the line of scrimmage, while other plays he may be the nickel corner or deep safety. While Cash likely won’t transition to CB like Damarious Randall did with the Packers, his versatility will certainly help his draft stock. With a matchup against run-heavy Boston College next on the schedule, expect Cash to once again play at or near the line of scrimmage and amass double-digit tackles.

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Adolphus Washington (DT – Ohio State)

After the departure of Michael Bennett to the NFL, Ohio State needed Adolphus Washington to step up at the defensive tackle position. He did just that against Western Michigan.

Washington recorded three tackles in the game, but his biggest contribution was a 20-yard interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter. On the play, he was doubled by the right guard and right tackle. Although he wasn’t able to generate pressure on the QB, Washington got his arms in the air and picked off the pass intended for the RB in the flat and returning it for the score.

Although it will be extremely difficult for Washington to surpass defensive tackles Robert Nkemdiche of Ole Miss or A’Shawn Robinson of Alabama on draft boards, he’s making his case to be the third DT selected in the first round.

Su’a Cravens (OLB – USC)

Like Jeremy Cash, Su’a Cravens lines up all over the field. While Cash will most likely remain a safety at the next level, it will depend on the team whether Cravens plays safety or linebacker.

In the Trojans’ blowout win over Arizona State, Cravens led the team with six tackles and two for a loss. He also forced a fumble and consistently played tight coverage from the slot. Much like Shaq Thompson in the 2015 NFL Draft, Cravens might be a tweener, but he should be a first-round selection.

Next: Offense: Draft Stock Down