Derick Hall projected first round pick in NFL Analyst Mel Kiper's mock draft 1.0
NFL Draft Analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has released volume one of his annual mock draft. Former Auburn edge rusher Derick Hall made the first round projection.
Due to need and the potential to lose a few players to free agency, Kiper sees Hall as a good fit as the No. 27 overall pick to the Buffalo Bills.
They need to restock in this draft. And even though Buffalo has used first- or second-round picks on Greg Rousseau, Boogie Bashamand, AJ Epenesa in the past three drafts, its depth on the edge has to get better. That’s why I see Hall, who had 15.5 sacks over the past two seasons, as a stellar fit on Day 1. He could turn into a steal here.
Hall at Auburn
Hall, a former 4-star recruit from Gulfport, Miss., played in the very first game he put on an Auburn uniform. His first playing action came against Oregon in 2019. He did not record any stats in that game. He went on to have 13 tackles during his freshman season.
Hall became a full-time starter in 2020 as a sophomore. He remained a starter throughout the rest of his Auburn career.
Hall recorded 146 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, 19.5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 interception.
During his senior season, Hall was recognized by his work in the community. He won the Solomon Community Service Award, and is currently a semifinalist for the Jason Witten Man of the Year Award. He also finished as a first team All-SEC selection.
Draft buzz
Hall is hoping to rise his already high draft buzz at the Senior Bowl.
According to nfldraftbuzz.com, Hall is currently projecting as high as a mid-2nd round draft selection and holds a rating of 87.1/100. He is listed as an edge/defensive end. Hall is the 10th ranked player at his position in the 2023 draft class according to the site.
