Small School Safeties
by Matt Miller
By Matt Feminis and Josh Buchanan (D2 Football)
Corey Lynch (6-0 206), Appalachian State (I-AA)
Lynch is one of the most productive free safeties in the small school ranks, and is known for his blocked kick that sealed ASU?s historic 34-32 upset of Michigan back in September. As a Florida prep star, Lynch excelled as a two-time all-state defensive back/running back. While in high school, he intercepted 31 passes. As a four-year starter at Appalachian State, Lynch added 24 interceptions and seven fumble recoveries. The program?s first three-time All-American since linebacker Dexter Coakley, Lynch was in on nearly 360 career tackles, earning All-Southern Conference honors four times. His only injury was a dislocation-fracture of his elbow in 2004 that forced him to have surgery. His straight-line speed and run support have been questioned, but Lynch has clearly shown a knack for causing turnovers. He is one of the top special teams performers in this draft, and is considered a seventh round/priority free agent grade by most.
Bobbie Williams (6-0 212), Bethune-Cookman (I-AA)
Williams is a four-year starter at the free safety position who has collected interceptions the last three years, while adding 70-plus tackles in each of the last two seasons. At this time, he?s likely the small school safety prospect with the best chance at hearing his name called. A Buck Buchanan Award finalist (top defensive player), Williams is a relatively grounded kid who views his father as his biggest athletic influence. Williams was interviewed by Josh Buchanan, and mentioned Brian Dawkins as the NFL player he models his game after. He also lists graduating as a goal, and is well aware of the pro success enjoyed by past B-C standouts Rashean Mathis (Jaguars) and Nick Collins (Packers). Originally from Miami, Williams is a physical, versatile defensive back whose primary position is free safety. He considers himself a center fielder-type with the ability to tackle. His reported 40 times range from 4.45 to 4.65, so he?ll have to post a sterling pro day to help his chances. Right now without a Combine invite, he?s a seventh round/priority free agent prospect.
Michael Eubanks (5-11 193), Delta State (Division II)
Eubanks is an ideal example of player who will change positions in the pros from what he played in college. He has been one of the best linebackers in Division II over the last four years, but lacks the ideal size to play that position in the NFL. Eubanks was a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy (Most Outstanding Player) this year after he led the team with 90 tackles (27 for loss), 12 sacks, and 14 quarterback hurries. He finished his magical career as a three-time All-American, three-time first-team All-Gulf South Conference performer, and two-time conference Defensive Player of the Year. Many expected Eubanks to weigh around 220 pounds when he came to the Cactus Bowl, but he weighed in around 193 pounds, spurring the talk of a move to strong safety. He earned defensive player of the game honors after collecting six tackles (five for loss), three sacks, forced fumble, and an interception returned for a touchdown. He also has the bloodlines, as his brother John was drafted by Washington after playing his college career at Southern Mississippi. When all is said and done, a move to strong safety will probably be best because of his speed (reportedly in the 4.55-4.64 range) and ability to close on the football. Right after the Cactus Bowl he has a late round grade from some teams and projects as a seventh rounder/priority free agent on Draft day.
Other notables: Brannon Carter (Northern Iowa); Jermaine Moye (California (PA)); Tony LeZotte (James Madison); Jose Yearwood (Brown); Henti Baird (Hampton); Lamar Herron (Texas Southern)
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