South Carolina football: NFL Draft grades for Gamecock players

After Horn, four Gamecocks fall within the 150 to 180 range on PFF’s rankings. Israel Mukuamu is off the board next, sliding in at No. 159. The junior was a bit inconsistent, but had a knack for the big play. In three seasons, he intercepted seven passes, including a three-pick performance against Georgia in 2019.

Scouts have to be enamored by Mukuamu’s rangy 6-foot-4 frame, and his ability to cover a ton of ground in the secondary. There are question marks, though, about his skills in coverage, which is why he’s fallen to a day two grade after some preseason projections saw him going in the first round.

Mukuamu can excel in the right scheme, and may be best suited for a zone coverage defense that allows him to use his eyes and instincts in space as opposed to turning and running with receivers.

Ernest Jones comes in just five spots after Mukuamu, ranking as the 164th-best draft prospect. Jones was a team captain and the Gamecocks’ leader in tackles each of the last two seasons. In 1,317 total snaps over the last two years, the linebacker totaled 180 tackles, with 131 being solo takedowns. He also only missed on 19 attempts.

Jones could solidify the second level of a run stuffing defense, but there are questions about his coverage skills. He seems to be the wildcard as far as draft order goes, but is most likely a late round selection to a team looking for quality depth.