NFL Draft: Breaking Down the Top Safety Prospects

Auburn Tigers running back Tre Mason (21) is tackled by Washington State Cougars safety Deone Bucannon (20). Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier in the week I ranked the Green Bay Packers roster needs by position heading into the 2014 NFL Draft. Now, it’s time to look at the top draft prospects at each of these positions of need.

It has been well documented this offseason that the Packers are in dire need of another starting-caliber safety heading into the draft.

The Packers would be wise to take a close look at a very diverse class of safeties this year. There are safeties with size, like Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Ed Reynolds who can roam the back end.

There are downhill safeties – Calvin Pryor and Deone Bucannon – who can lay a big hit and make that impact play that changes momentum on the field. And there are safeties with speed that excel in coverage – Jimmie Ward and Terrence Brooks.

The Packers will have their pick of the litter come draft day, or at least we hope.

Here are my top 20 safety prospects for the 2014 NFL Draft. I grouped the players into four tiers.

Tier One being potential impact players at the next level.

Tier Two being players who could be solid starters or make contributions as a rookie.

Tier Three being developmental prospects who have some upside but may not be ready to contribute immediately.

And Tier Four being role players who could offer depth on the roster.