2017 NFL Draft: 5 Fastest Rising 2017 NFL Prospects
By Jon Dove
Jabrill Peppers, DB/LB, Michigan
Michigan’s Jabrill Peppers has been on the NFL draft radar since he began his college career. He was a highly sought after high school recruit and has quickly developed into an elite NFL draft prospect.
Peppers is one of the most polarizing players in this draft based on his potential and uncertain position fit. Michigan moved him closer to the line of scrimmage this year having him play a hybrid linebacker role.
He has excelled with this change showing the instincts and toughness needed to play in the trenches. However, Peppers is still on the smaller end of what evaluators want to see for a linebacker.
The situation is complicated by the fact that Peppers has shown elite skills as both a safety and cornerback. It’s rare to see a player capable of being a top-10 pick at three different positions.
Despite this position uncertainty, Peppers figures to be a top-5 pick and someone capable of making an immediate impact. He’s not like other prospects without a defined position because he has shown the ability to handle multiple spots.
Where he lands on draft night will ultimately determine his position in the NFL. A team like the Chicago Bears would likely use him at safety or cornerback, whereas the New Orleans Saints could line him up at linebacker.
Either way, Jabrill Peppers is going to be one of the first few players selected in the 2017 NFL Draft.