Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
5. Mackensie Alexander, CB Clemson
Mackensie Alexander shut down opponents at Clemson for the past two seasons. Alexander earned a spot on the Freshman All-American team in 2014, and after 2015 he became a third team All-American and first team All-ACC. The red-shirt sophomore dominated opponents only allowing 29.6% completions and 0 touchdowns. In two games against Oklahoma, he thoroughly shut down wide receiver standout, Sterling Shepard in the 2014 Russell Athletic Bowl. Shepard did catch 7 passes for 84 yards in a Oklahoma vs Clemson rematch at the 2015 Orange Bowl.
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While Alexander shut down top opponents, he took away exactly 0 interceptions and only had 10 passes defended in two seasons. The lack of production may show a lack of ball skills, but teams were scared to throw to Alexander’s side of the field. Even still, 0 interceptions can cause concern when trying to validate picking him early in the second round.
Picking fifth in the second round at 36 overall, the Ravens could grab Alexander since depth at cornerback needs to be addressed, but they might be hoping for Eli Apple from Ohio State or Houston’s William Jackson III falls to them. Both players are taller with more proven balls skills.
Next: 4. Keanu Neal