2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch: SEC
By Kyle Edmond
![TUSCALOOSA, AL - NOVEMBER 10: Kylin Hill #8 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs dives for a touchdown over Shyheim Carter #5 of the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The touchdown was called back on an offensive penalty. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) TUSCALOOSA, AL - NOVEMBER 10: Kylin Hill #8 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs dives for a touchdown over Shyheim Carter #5 of the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The touchdown was called back on an offensive penalty. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/988b130f359eccdc1f4c650dfd486307d81bcf9854845dc61dd39c7ff20f31d1.jpg)
Missouri – Nick Bolton, Linebacker, Junior
After being named a First Team All-SEC and Third Team All-American after the 2019 season, Nick Bolton is preparing for a monster season in 2020 to propel him into the 2021 NFL Draft.
Bolton was also listed as the top-graded SEC linebacker as well as leading the conference in tackles per game, two accolades that are impressive for any player, but especially a sophomore. His 107 tackles also led the team and were second in the conference behind only Jacob Phillips, who played in three more games than Bolton and totaled just six more tackles.
Bolton added to a complete stat line with two interceptions, eight pass breakups, three quarterback hurries, one sack, and 7.5 tackles for loss. Needless to say, he can contribute all across the field in nearly every role, making him a valuable piece for any defense.
He might not be receiving the hype just yet nationally, but come draft time Bolton will be a name to watch as he climbs charts, especially if he posts similar numbers during the 2020 season. He also will have the option to return for his senior season, but if his junior year resembles anything like his sophomore season, there will be little left to prove at the collegiate level for him.