The 2021 NFL draft is less than two weeks away and we have more than a dozen eligible Ohio State Buckeyes that could hear their name called during draft weekend. We covered most of the former Ohio state stars in previous editions of this piece, but today we break down Justin Hilliard.
Hilliard was a top twenty recruit in his class picking Ohio State over Michigan and Notre Dame, but his career took a little longer to develop due to his lengthy injury history. His impact was certainly felt during the College Football Playoffs when he tallied eight tackles against Clemson.
He became a major contributor on defense as the season wore on last year and really shined during Senior Bowl week.
Player Profile
Name: Justin Hilliard
Position: Outside Linebacker
Height: 6 feet, 0 inches
Weight: 229 pounds
Justin Hilliard is a machine 🦾#GoBuckeyes pic.twitter.com/21pTjrjveL
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) December 19, 2020
NEXT … The closest all-around comp to Hilliard
All-around Comparison: Matt Milano
Milano was drafted in the fourth round of the 2017 draft to the Buffalo Bills out of Boston College and he has been a steady player ever since. Hilliard is a better prospect than Milano was, but likely will not be drafted as high due to his lengthy injury history. Hilliard has a much larger frame better equipped for the linebacker position and if he can remain healthy could have an even better career than Milano.
NEXT … Best former Ohio State comp
Hilliard’s best Buckeye Comparison: Jerome Baker
Baker was drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins and he has had a very solid career for them since arriving in Miami. Baker was a better prospect than Hilliard coming out, but they share the same rare athleticism. Again if not for the injuries, Hilliard would be in the early round conversation.
@Lastname_Baker (Jerome Baker Mia) is criminally underrated. 112 tackles, 7 sacks, 2 FF, 11 QB hits. Improved on setting the edge and getting off blocks. Pro Bowl caliber player.
— Kevin Guerard (@kevinguerard13) April 14, 2021
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