1. Tom Zbikowski, 5′11, 211, Notre Dame: Zbikowski could’ve entered last year’s draft, but returned to school for a fifth year. He had a solid season and was a Thorpe Award semifinalist, but the fact that the Fighting Irish had a bad year made many question his decision.

His background as a boxer says it all about his toughness, but that toughness is accompanied by a lot of talent and play-making ability. Zbikowski excelled during his career not only in defense, but also as a punt returner, and had seven non-offensive touchdowns in his career (three punt, two INT, two fumble).

There’s little question about his status as the top strong safety prospect on the board, and after running a 4.44 40 at the combine, he showed off the necessary speed required to keep up on the next level. There’s a chance he could fall into the third round, but the second round wouldn’t be a reach for him at all.

2. Josh Barrett, 6′2, 223, Arizona St.: Injuries in the 2007 season hurt Barrett’s stock, but by running a 4.35 at the combine, he flew back on the radar in a big way.

With his size and speed, a team could try to move Barrett to linebacker, but if he stays at safety, he stands to be a big-impact player.

Some team will be hoping that Barrett could slip past the third round, but that’s highly unlikely, as he could even jump into the second round.

3. Tyrell Johnson, 6′0, 207, Arkansas St.: Johnson might be a little-known prospect thanks to having played in the Sun Belt Conference, but he’s a big-time player. Johnson finished his four-year career as the conference’s all-time leading tackler with 363, and was the SBC Defensive Player of the Year in 2007 (94 tackles, 6 INT).

With his size, speed (4.41 at the combine), strength (27 bench press reps), and cover skills, Johnson won’t fly under the radar for long. He’ll likely land in the third round thanks to his low profile, but that will be a steal.

4. Jamar Adams, 6′2, 212, Michigan: When you can lay on a lick on one of the toughest players in the game, Owen Schmitt, you’re pretty good, and that’s what Adams did at Senior Bowl practice in January.

He’s not blazing fast, but he makes plays (92 tackles, 3 INT, 10 pass breakups). And once again, if you can lay a lick on Owen Schmitt, you’re pretty good. Adams should go early on the second day.

5. Craig Steltz, 6′2, 213, LSU: LSU had two first-team All-Americans this past season. One was Glenn Dorsey, and the other was Steltz, who had 101 tackles and six interceptions for the national champion Tigers.

Steltz isn’t the fastest guy, but like teammate Jacob Hester, gives 110% on every down. He’s likely not going to go in the first three rounds, but he’ll be a solid pick in the fourth or fifth round.

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