Top 2017 recruiting one-two punch: Safety

Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.

The class of 2017 is signed and sealed, so as we look back on how programs did, we thought it would be interesting to rank the best 1-2 punches at each position. Today we take a look at the safeties.

Note: Only teams signing two or more at this position are eligible.

TOP ONE-TWO PUNCHES IN 2017: QB | RB | WR | TE | OL | DT | DE | LB | CB

The skinny: It should not be surprising that a program like LSU, which regularly churns out NFL defensive backs, would reel in the top duo of safeties. Leading the way is five-star Jacoby Stevens at No. 2, who committed during the summer, while Grant Delpit at No. 9 is originally from Texas but found his way to IMG Academy for his senior season.

Farrell’s Take: These two both have athleticism and length, and should be a dynamic duo and keep DBU alive for LSU. Stevens is more physically and technically ready right now, but Delpit could honestly have an equal ceiling down the line. Talk about a ball-hawking duo at safety, this is it.

The skinny: For Ohio State to dive into Texas and grab the No. 1 safety in the nation and then go into Georgia and grab the No. 12 safety is a testament to the Buckeyes’ recruiting prowess. Okudah was a longtime Ohio State lean, but gaining his signature was still a big victory, while Pryor committed back in 2015 and held firm with his word. With a great deal of turnover in the Ohio State secondary this year both arrivals will be given an opportunity for early playing time.

Farrell’s Take: Okudah could play cornerback or safety, he’s that talented, while Pryor is solidly built and a natural strong safety in the Ohio State defensive scheme. Both can tackle, they each have excellent ball skills and they each have a non-stop motor, so watch out for this duo down the line.

The skinny: Flipping Nasirildeen, ranked No. 8 in the safety position rankings, from South Carolina in the days leading up to Signing Day solidified the Seminoles' safety group. He joined in-state four-star Cyrus Fagan, who at No. 10 was the No. 2 safety to come out of the Sunshine State behind Delpit. Both newcomers can come in and learn from one of the top safeties in the country, Derwin James, which should give them a jumpstart for this season and beyond.

Farrell’s Take: Having James there for a year will be huge for these guys, especially Nasirildeen who will likely take over James’ role in the defense eventually. Fagan isn’t the biggest safety but he’s fast and has terrific ball skills and I think Nasirildeen could be special with his raw athleticism.