It used to be that if you drafted a safety in the first round of the NFL Draft you were either desperate or just crazy. But, times have changed. The position of a safety has been redefined and ultimately has become a cornerstone position on a defense.

The way the National Football League is headed, and the philosophy change of offenses, safeties in today’s NFL are looked upon as hybrids rather than Range Rovers.

A safety is expected to play both the run and the pass and be an effective pass rusher on blitzing downs. In the 70’s, 80’s and most of the 90’s, safeties were merely a “safety net” for a defense. If a receiver got past a cornerback on a go-route, a safety was expected to be over the top of the receiver and defend as the ball reached its destination.

There are a lot of safeties that are premier players in the league today. Players like Brian Dawkins, Ed Reed, and Darren Sharper are consistent playmakers for their defenses and have established a reputation of having a nose for the ball.

In this year’s NFL Draft, there are two players that have defensive coordinators enamored with their all-around defensive game, LSU’s LaRon Landry and Florida’s Reggie Nelson.

Landry and Nelson are extremely talented players that possess two totally different approaches to the game.

Landry is a physical presence that gets involved with all facets of the game. He’s an outstanding leader that has good coverage ability, but excels against the run. Landry will be an effective blitzer at the next level and should show the same kind of intensity that Dawkins displays for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Nelson is a playmaker that looks to make the big hit. He’s very aggressive against the pass and is always looking to turn defense into offense. He is a very instinctive player, but over pursues and gets beat for big plays. But, he will be a playmaker in the National Football League if he stays disciplined, and he is strongly compared to Ed Reed of the Ravens.

Landry, a senior, and Nelson, a junior, both had outstanding 2006 seasons. Landry posted 68 total tackles, along with three interceptions and a sack. Nelson recorded six interceptions and 51 total tackles.

The question teams face is, “who will be the better pro?” It all depends on what you’re looking for in a safety. Both have the physical ability to be great, and it will ultimately depend on the scheme they play at the next level.

If you’re looking for a steady leader who will provide excellent defense against the run and good coverage ability, you want to draft Landry. If you want a playmaker that can provide a spark to a defense and give you a chance to score points with your offense on the sidelines, Nelson is your man.

If I were to pick either Landry or Nelson, I’d have to favor Landry. I love his experience and attitude towards the game. He has great passion and leadership qualities that will allow him to be successful in the professional ranks. I think Nelson will become a very good player, but from what I’ve seen of Landry, I just believe he will be a perennial Pro-Bowl player.