Leading up to the 2021 NFL Draft beginning on April 29, we will be posting an under the radar draft profile once a week. Starting off the series is University of Pittsburgh safety, Paris Ford.

Ford is a game-changing defensive-back. Ford can make a play from anywhere on the field, whether that be a huge hit, crazy interception, or making a sack on the quarterback. Despite being a little bit smaller, Ford reminds me a lot of former Steeler Troy Polamalu. Both Ford and Polamalu flew around the field to make plays for their team’s secondary. During his time at Pitt, Ford showed that ability with insane interceptions, pass deflections, and three forced fumbles in 2019 (Sports-Reference.com). In addition, Ford has an unmatched energy while out on the field. That passion is what makes me believe that Ford could very well transition into a leader and star in the NFL.

Ford’s draft stock quickly dropped after opting out of the 2020 NCAA season. Teams do not know enough about Ford, who only has two college seasons under his belt. Despite that, teams like the Washington Football Team, Minnesota Vikings, and Las Vegas Raiders all need a playmaking safety. As a result, Ford could very well find himself with a starting role in his rookie season. Even the Pittsburgh Steelers could take a shot on Ford in the later second or third round and make Ford part of a star-studded duo with Minkah Fitzpatrick.

With the NFL Draft Combine as well as individual workouts still coming up, Ford’s draft stock could fall even more, or rise to what it would have been had he played in the 2020 NCAA season. Regardless of how Ford performs at those events, he will make an immediate impact on whichever team takes a chance on him.