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*Walt taking 2014 and 2018

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Ohio State's Lattimore Receiving High First-Round Grades

A few weeks ago, WalterFootball.com was the first to report that Ohio State redshirt sophomore safety Malik Hooker was receiving high first-round grades for the 2017 NFL Draft. Sources from multiple teams are raving about Hooker and believe that he is a potential top-10 pick. Hooker isn't the only Buckeye defensive back who is held in such high regard. Redshirt sophomore cornerback Marshon Lattimore is also receiving high first-round grades, and sources from multiple teams are saying that Lattimore could be a top-16 pick if he declares for the 2017 NFL Draft. 

Lattimore has 15 tackles, six passes broken up and three interceptions thus far in 2016. He has had some excellent games, including his performances against Tulsa and Oklahoma. Lattimore has been very good in coverage with the size to match up against big wideouts and the speed run with receivers downfield. The 6-foot, 192-pounder has teams excited about his skill set, and they believe that he is a future No. 1 cover corner in the NFL.  

While teams are very excited about Lattimore and Hooker, sources say there are some rumors that one or both might return to Ohio State in 2017. That isn't uncommon this time of year, but late in the season, many players change their mind and decide to enter the draft. Lattimore and Hooker could hear their names called early on the opening night of the draft, and that can be very persuasive to getting players to leave early.