Hayes Pullard NFL Draft Preview: Stock, Mock Drafts and Projections

Hayes Pullard has been projected everywhere from undrafted to the third round of the NFL draft, with hopes that his instincts will make up for lack of size.

Why Hayes Pullard will get drafted

Pullard himself made the case for his being drafted in an open letter published on The Players’ Tribune Tuesday.

What it comes down to is intangibles. Despite being undersized, Pullard has a wealth of experience, is a student of the game and has displayed the mental toughness it takes to overcome the obstacles in his way.

What Hayes Pullard did at USC

In four years as a starter, Pullard earned led USC in tackles three times. He ranks sixth among Trojans all-time in tackling.

He was named a freshman All-American and earned a sophomore All-American honorable mention before being voted to the All-Pac-12 second team in 2013 and an honorable mention in 2014.

Named a team captain in 2013, Pullard was awarded USC’s Trojan Way Leadership Award.

What the scouts are saying about Hayes Pullard

Mike Mayock of the NFL Network projected Pullard in the middle rounds saying, “he’s a tough guy, he’s smart, he comes downhill.”

Standing just 6-0, the biggest criticism of Pullard is his lack of height and the limitations on his build.

Dane Brugler of CBS Sports labeled Pullard “too reactionary and not an instigator” but noted strengths in terms of instincts, leadership and productivity.

At NFL.com, Lance Zierlein projected Pullard in the sixth or seventh round but stated that he has the “athleticism to be a solid NFL player.”

Where Hayes Pullard is going in Mock Drafts

Lance Zierlein / Chad Reuter (NFL.com): Denver Broncos, 5th round, 143rd overall
Charlie Campbell (Walter Football): Kansas City Chiefs, 4th round, 118th overall
DraftTek (Computer Algorithm): Cincinnati Bengals, 4th round, 135th overall

Now’s your turn to put on your scouting cap. Where do you see Pullard being drafted? Vote in our poll below and sound off in the comments.

Where will Hayes Pullard go in the NFL draft?

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