Georgia Tech Football: 2016 NFL Prospects - S/KR Jamal Golden

As a Prospect

Coming out of high school, Jamal Golden was an athlete. At Wetumpka High School, Golden played in every facet of the game. On offense, Golden was the star quarterback who accounted for 3.477 yards and 37 touchdowns. On defense, Golden was a cornerback, not to mention he was also the team's primary kick and punt returner. Playing all of these different positions, Golden led his team to the Class 6A area championship as a senior. His accolades include being named Alabama's Old Spice Player of the Year, Gatorade Player of the Year and Mr. Football. All of that, and he was only a three-star recruit according to Rivals. Golden committed to the Jackets on January 5, 2011.

On the Flats

Paul Johnson has made excellent use of Golden's versatility and athleticism during his time on the Flats. Playing primarily in the secondary, Golden first found his true calling as Tech's primary return man. In just his second year on the Flats, Golden gained 952 all-purpose yards without playing a single snap on offense. After missing most of 2013 with a shoulder injury, Golden returned to the Flats ready to play this season.

Golden finished tied for the team lead in interceptions with four. He also had some very memorable plays from this season. The two that come to mind immediately are the two videos below.

Looking Forward

Jamal Golden is on the fringe of being a good NFL prospect. He has got the athleticism down. He also showed last year that not only is he capable of making big plays when he needs to, but that that ability came from watching film. He is also a very good returner. The thing that I believe is holding him back is sustained success. He showed last year that he was better than a lot of people thought. If he can continue to show that he's a good safety, which means playing good coverage in addition to just being a ballhawk, Golden definitely will be given a shot in the NFL.

What does Golden have to do this season to deserve a shot in the NFL?