Oakland Raiders: Ranking the top ten safeties in the 2016 NFL Draft

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Dec 31, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jarvis Baxter (1) eludes the tackle of Clemson Tigers safety Jayron Kearse (1) during the second quarter of the 2015 CFP semifinal at the Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Jayron Kearse, Clemson

At 6’4”, 216 pounds, former Clemson product Jayron Kearse has freakish size for the safety position. With his length and overall athleticism, Kearse had several bright moments during his final season with the Tigers, as he accumulated 62 combined tackles, one interception, and 6.5 tackles for loss in 15 games.

Kearse has all of the tools necessary to dominate at the next level, but his lack of effort and unwillingness to remain aggressive in the box has scouts questioning his desire for the game. Also, Kearse lacks ideal acceleration to effectively break on the ball in coverage.

If he is willing to put in the work to develop at the next level, Kearse could develop into a star with Oakland at free safety, but his boom-or-bust potential should keep him on the board through Day 2 of the draft.

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