CLEMSON in the NFL

Two Tigers listed in ESPN's NFL Mock Draft

Two Tigers listed in ESPN's NFL Mock Draft


by - Assoc. Editor -

ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay has released his 2016 NFL Mock Draft 3.0 on Wednesday, and two Clemson defenders were listed in the first round.

Defensive end Shaq Lawson was projected to the Chicago Bears at the #11th selection.

"The Bears need more impact players on defense, and Lawson -- who led the FBS with 25.5 tackles for loss last season -- fits the bill," McShay said. "He plays with a good mixture of relentlessness, technique, and discipline. Lawson isn't the best athlete on tape, but he tested well at the combine and has a good first step."

Lawson finished the season with 86 tackles, 25.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hurries.

Defensive back Mackensie Alexander was projected to go to the Pittsburgh Steelers at the #25 selection.

"Tight end is a need, and we have a first-round grade on Hunter Henry, but you have to think the Steelers are going to spend this pick on a defender," McShay said. "Quick-twitched, instinctive and capable versus the run, Alexander is a really good all-around player. But he finished college with zero interceptions and lacks ideal length; he measured 5-foot-10 with arms less than 31½ inches at the combine. Houston CB William Jackson III, who had an impressive combine workout and has really underrated tape, is another possibility here."

The Tigers with Alexander were the number two defense in the country in passes completed holding opponents to 47.6 completion percentage. In 638 snaps this season, QBs completed 11 passes vs. Alexander.

Defensive end Kevin Dodd was ranked #11 of the best prospects remaining after the first round of McShay's NFL Mock Draft.

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