2018 NFL Draft: The Floor Team For Each Projected Top 10 Pick
By Erik Lambert
Denzel Ward (CB, Ohio State): Green Bay Packers at #14
If he were just two inches taller, Ohio State corner Denzel Ward would be a lock for the top 10. He’s got that fluid athleticism and toughness that make for lockdown corners in the NFL. Unfortunately being 5’10” is something teams won’t be able to ignore. Size matters in this league. Smaller corners not only struggle against bigger receivers but also can be prone to injury. At least this is what the Green Bay Packers hope every team in front of them thinks because he would be such a godsend for their leaky pass defense.
Minkah Fitzpatrick (S, Alabama): Los Angeles Chargers at #17
The Chargers had the 31st ranked run defense in 2017. A big reason for that was a general weakness up the middle from defensive tackle to inside linebacker to safety. Tre Boston had five interceptions last year but hasn’t been re-signed. Why? He was awful in run defense. Clearly they think they can do better. If Minkah Fitzpatrick drops into their laps, they were right. The Alabama safety is much better against the run and can be as good or better in coverage. He’s that freakishly athletic.