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Five Auburn Football Players Most Likely to be Drafted by the NFL

By Chris Roush

Nov 28, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) runs the ball as Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) tackles during the third quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) runs the ball as Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) tackles during the third quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports /
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3. Safety Jonathan “Rudy” Ford

After starting his Auburn career as a running back, Ford had a monster junior season with 118 tackles and two interceptions. His numbers were down in 2016, with just 64 tackles and no interceptions. But Ford showed his skills at going after the ball, and his size — he’s 6 feet tall and a solid 200 pounds — make him attractive to teams looking to bulk up in the defensive backfield.

NFLDraftScout.com lists Ford as the No. 234 prospect, but the No. 9 free safety on the board. Our friends over at DawgPoundDaily.com, however, point out that the Cleveland Browns are looking at Ford at the Senior Bowl, noting, “Ford has the size needed to play safety and is a player who can consistently tackle with the right form, something that teams value the most. Drafting a safety would especially make sense for the Browns given their struggles defending the tight end position all season long as large red-zone targets gave this defense fits in 2016.”

The Browns already have four Auburn alums on their roster, so Ford will feel right at home. Ford is unlikely to play in the Senior Bowl due to an ankle injury.

Projection: Fifth round to the Browns.

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