Mel Kiper praises specific aspect of Nakobe Dean's game

Mel Kiper is a big believer in Georgia linebacker Nakobe Dean. After leading the Bulldogs to their first national championship in forty years, Kiper believes Dean could be a star at the next level.

Evidently, Kiper believes in Dean for a myriad of reasons. However, a specific aspect of the Georgia star’s game makes the ESPN NFL Draft guru think he’s going to be a star.

“Look at the Denver Broncos and Nakobe Dean and what he meant to that Georgia Bulldogs talent-laden defense,” started Kiper. “He was a guy called the signals, lined up everybody properly. Made sure they were in the right alignment. He made plays in coverage, got after quarterbacks. He’s an outstanding open field tackler.

“The Denver Broncos could also be thinking quarterback but the defense, particularly at linebacker, needs help. That’s one of their major needs The versatility of Nakobe Dean showed up week after week in the SEC.”

As you can see, Dean’s ability to lead the defense could be enticing to the Broncos — and other teams, as well. While some believe Denver will attempt to draft a star quarterback once again, the opportunity to draft Dean may be too much to pass up.

Last year, Denver selected cornerback Patrick Surtain II over quarterbacks like Mac Jones and Justin Fields. If they opt to go with Dean over prospects like Kenny Pickett or Matt Corral, Broncos fans shouldn’t be discouraged — they’re getting one of the best players in the entire draft.

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If Kiper is right and Dean is selected by the Broncos, he could captain their defense for years to come. If he’s wrong, there’s no way the Georgia star will have to wait long afterwards to hear his name called.

Throughout Georgia’s championship season, everything that made Dean great was on full display. The linebacker showed off his tremendous play-making abilities, as well as his top-notch leadership skills all season long.

Players like Dean are few and far between. If the Denver Broncos can get their hands on Nakobe Dean, they should turn the card in immediately.