The 2021 NFL draft kicks off in less than two weeks and we are trying to provide a breakdown of what the potential expectations are for each prospect coming from the Ohio State University. The first day will likely only see one Buckeye hear their name called in Justin Fields, but days two and three should supply plenty of action.
We’re next taking a look at one of the multiple linebackers that could go in the draft for Ohio State, Tuf Borland. He was a former four-star recruit from the state of Illinois, and despite some of his limitations from a fast-twitch athletic standpoint, was a very productive collegiate player for the Buckeyes.
It’s time to take a look at some comparables for Borland, first from former Ohio State players, then from an all-around NFL perspective.
Player Profile
Name: Tuf Borland
Position: Outside Linebacker
Height: 6 feet, 0 inches
Weight: 229 pounds
Tuf Borland is a LB prospect in the 2021 draft class. He scored a 1.3 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 1861 out of 2137 LB from 1987 to 2021. https://t.co/on5CotPgd8 #RAS via @Mathbomb pic.twitter.com/94exHLMm5V
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 14, 2021
NEXT … The closest all-around comp to Borland
All-around Comparison: Roquan Smith
Smith was a top ten pick in the 2018 draft to the Chicago Bears and has been an absolute stud, being named All-Rookie in 2018 and an All-Pro this past season. Borland is the poor man’s version and it is very unlikely he sees the same kind of success, especially considering the difference in pure athleticism. Both players do possess rare instincts that allow them to always be in the right spot at the right time.
Top 3 ILBs I would personally build my franchise around:
-Bobby Wagner
-Roquan Smith
-Deion Jones— Football247 (@brandontalksfb) April 15, 2021
NEXT … Best former Ohio State comp
Borland’s best Buckeye Comparison: Jerome Baker
Baker was a third-round selection to the Miami Dolphins in 2018 and has had a fairly successful career since arriving in the NFL. Much like Smith above, Baker has rare athleticism that Borland just can’t compete with. He was a few tiers above Borland as a prospect, but they both share the discipline needed to be in the right spot.
@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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