Mel Kiper, Todd McShay reveal former Michigan star who should be rising ahead of NFL Draft

Daxton Hill put together a standout collegiate career at Michigan and is now ready to take his game to the next level. While the safety tallied 150 tackles, four interceptions and three fumble recoveries in three seasons with the Wolverines, he’s projected to be a late first-round pick in this week’s NFL Draft – and rightfully so.

Although Hill recorded strong numbers at Michigan and should be a first-round pick come Thursday night, the safety’s name isn’t being mentioned much – and ESPN NFL Draft insider Mel Kiper Jr. discussed that earlier this week on the network’s First Draft show.

“Daxton Hill – I don’t hear this guy’s name mentioned at all,” Kiper said. “I don’t know why, maybe because it’s the safety spot and they don’t want to talk about it. I think he’s a pure defensive back who’s right there with [Washington cornerback Trent] McDuffie. I think he’s a mid-first-round caliber player. … He’s No. 14 or 15 on my board right now. Love Daxton Hill.”

Just like Kiper, fellow ESPN NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay also gave plenty of praise to Hill – making it clear that he’s built for the NFL.

“I’m the same ranks,” McShay said. “I think I’ve got him at 15 right now in this class. I agree – he’s the silent player that no one wants to talk about. They’re not sure – is he a free safety, is he a nickel corner, what is he? He’s a damn good cover guy who makes plays on the ball. He’s not that big, but he plays a lot bigger than his size, in terms of his aggressiveness versus the run.”

Despite his name not being mentioned as often as it should be, Hill is still set to hear his name called on Thursday when the 2022 NFL Draft gets underway in Las Vegas – and that’s what matters.