Top NFL Destinations for ASU Safety Xavion Alford
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Sun Devil Safety Xavion Alford will leave a lasting impact at ASU; however, it is time to look to the future, as Alford has declared for the NFL Draft. Alford had an amazing time at ASU and has the skills to translate very well to the NFL. So, what teams would Alford be the best fit for?
Houston Texans
The first team on this list is arguably the team that has had the best defense this year in the NFL. The Houston Texans' defense under third-year Head Coach DeMeco Ryans has been an absolute elite unit this year. From holding the energetic Los Angeles Rams offense to only 14 points, or to just allowing 10 points to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, the Texans' defense has been really great.
The defense is loaded with playmakers such as likes the of Will Anderson, Danielle Hunter, and Derek Stigney Jr. However, Houston's safety position could get upgraded, so Xavion Alford could be a very nice fit in Texan red and blue. Alford's great reaction time that he showed in Brian Ward's defense at ASU would translate perfectly to DeMeco Ryans's defense.
Minnesota Vikings
Like the Texans, the Vikings have a lot of very good players on the defense. However, also like Houston, the Vikings could need an upgrade at the safety position. Harrison Smith has been a Minnesota legend, as he was drafted by the Vikings in 2012. Smith has had a storied career with a lot of highlight moments; however, he is 36. Even if Smith were to play another season, Alford could learn from Smith.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have had a great history of having amazing defenses, such as the Steel Curtain Defense in the 1970s or the great Steelers defense in the 2000s. As of late, their defense has regressed a bit, but they have still been a pretty solid unit. So, adding Xavion Alford with his great instincts and leadership would be a great way to keep the Steelers' defense historically elite.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have quietly been building up one of the better secondaries as of late. This includes players such as cornerback Jaycee Horn, who has had a superstar year, as well as safety and former Las Vegas Raider, Tre'von Moehrig, who has contributed this season as well. Drafting Alford would help solidify a potentially elite secondary.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs' dynasty has primarily been known for their explosive offense. However, their defense under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has been a very nice and clutch unit over the past couple of seasons. From the likes of Defensive Tackle Chris Jones or Cornerback Trent McDuffie, this defense has been an impressive unit over the past couple of seasons.
The safety position could be better, though, for KC, and Xavion Alford would be an amazing fit for the Chiefs' defense. Spagnuolo's defense likes to put the pressure on opposing Quarterbacks, whether it be by blitzing or having confusing coverages. Alford would be a great fit for that type of defense, one that likes to mix things up due to his flexibility.
Overall, Alford's skills would translate perfectly to the NFL and it will be exciting what NFL's defense he could boost.
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Tanner Cappellini holds a mass communications degree from Arizona State University and is pursuing his dream of being the person at the games, practices, and events who takes others inside the team they love.