Three Ohio State football players who still need NFL teams
By Ryan Stano
Malik Hooker was one of the best big-play threats the Buckeyes have ever had at the safety position. He had one of the single best seasons anyone’s ever had back in 2016, recording 7 interceptions with three of them going back for touchdowns.
Hooker was a first-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 2017 after that great season. He had a great start to his rookie year, grabbing three interceptions halfway through the year. Unfortunately, his season ended prematurely after he tore his ACL.
Since then, he hasn’t been able to get past the injury bug. He has had knee issues, a hip problem, and another season-ending injury. He tore his Achillies after just playing two games last season. Before that, the Colts had declined his fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
Now Hooker is looking for a team to continue his NFL career. Hooker still has all of the talent in the world. The problem is that the best ability is availability. He hasn’t been available enough to make an impact. Teams seem to be scared off by that.
Even though a torn Achillies is one of the worst injuries to have, he should still get some phone calls. He should sign with a team before next season starts. He is still just 25. If he can get himself healthy, he can still create a lot of turnovers.
The next player on our list is significantly older than Hooker and is fighting to stay in the league. I think he can still help a team, especially on special teams.