2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch: PAC-12 Conference

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Running back CJ Verdell #7 of the Oregon Ducks carries the ball against the Utah Utes during the second half of the Pac-12 Championship Game at Levi's Stadium on December 06, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 06: Running back CJ Verdell #7 of the Oregon Ducks carries the ball against the Utah Utes during the second half of the Pac-12 Championship Game at Levi's Stadium on December 06, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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2021 NFL Draft, Aashari Crosswell
2021 NFL Draft prospect Aashari Crosswell #16 of the Arizona State Sun Devils (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Arizona State – Aashari Crosswell, Defensive Back, Junior

The Arizona State secondary could quietly make an impact this coming season with multiple key pieces returning. One of those pieces will Aashari Crosswell.

Playing under Herm Edwards, an accomplished coach (especially when it comes to defensive backs), Crosswell has blossomed into a 2021 NFL Draft prospect. A year ago, he was a key cog on the Sun Devils’ defense alongside Jack Jones.

Last season, Crosswell saw the majority of his impact come from pass breakups, logging 10 which tied for the second-most on the team. He also added two interceptions, which also tied for second on the team. However, Crosswell also played a role in multiple facets of the game. Crosswell also tied for the team-lead in fumbles forced with three, recovering one. As for tackles, he logged 50 over the course of the season.

Crosswell might not have been the best defensive back on the team a year ago, but his ability to create plays and turnovers will draw the attention of NFL scouts and create buzz moving towards the 2021 NFL Draft.

A strong season in 2020 could even propel his stock into the conversation of the first few rounds of the draft. He also has the option to return to Arizona State for the 2021 season as well.