T.J. McDonald, Junior, Safety, USC
Overview:
Like most recruits headed to USC, T.J. McDonald had an impressive prep resume. The Fresno, California product was considered one of the top recruits in California heading into the 2009 collegiate season. And like most great recruits who become Trojans, McDonald had to bide his time and spend a year mostly on special teams.
McDonald got an opportunity to step into the starting free safety job in 2010 and he did not disappoint. Despite his lack of experience, McDonald looked like a veteran and a leader. He led the Trojans with 89 tackles and added three interceptions, four pass breakups and seven passes defended.
Final Projection:
McDonald will need to put together more than one great season to be widely considered worthy of a first round draft pick. McDonald does not lack the physical tools to play either free safety position in the NFL. He has the size and the speed. He will use his 6-3, 205 pound frame to lay out some huge hits and he can run a 40 in the 4.45 range. That should make him a first rounder barring a disappointing 2011 campaign.
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