Which safeties are the best in the NFL Draft of 2024, and how does the position group stack up?
In 2022, safety Javon Bullard, a key player for Georgia’s consecutive national championship victories, earned additional recognition during the Peach Bowl against Ohio State and the national championship game against TCU. Despite controversy surrounding a play where he avoided a targeting penalty, Bullard was named Defensive MVP, showcasing his skills with a sack, three solo tackles, and a crucial pass breakup in the Peach Bowl. In the national championship game, he further solidified his impact with two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Despite’s loss to Alabama in the 2023 SEC GeorgiaChampionship Game, Bullard’s performance remained noteworthy, with four solo tackles and a pass breakup. His ability to excel in significant games positions him as a valuable player in the eyes of potential NFL teams.
Looking ahead to the 2024 NFL Draft, Bullard is expected to be among the early selections for his position. Despite the Browns having a solid safety lineup with Grant Delpit’s contract extension and the promising rookie Ronnie Hickman, there’s room to consider a veteran addition at safety rather than drafting for depth.
The top five safeties in the 2024 NFL Draft class are as follows:
1. Kamren Kinchens from Miami (Projected slot: Second round)
– Notable for versatility and ball-taking ability, although needing improvement on double moves.
2. Javon Bullard from Georgia (Projected slot: Second round)
– Acknowledged for intelligence, versatility, and impact in both run defense and pass coverage.
3. Tyler Nubin from Minnesota (Projected slot: Second round)
– A sizable player effective in both run and pass defense, with concerns about agility in space.
4. Calen Bullock from USC (Projected slot: Third round)
– Tall and long safety with strengths in playing downhill and coverage, but needs to refine tackling and gain strength.
5. Cole Bishop from Utah (Projected slot: Third to fourth round)
– Recognized as a strong safety, excelling in the run game with instincts, though less effective in deep coverage.
