Clemson's Kevin Dodd might have the hottest NFL Draft stock this year

The junior had five sacks in his final three games of the 2015-16 season.

The buzz surrounding former Clemson players in the upcoming 2016 NFL Draft might all be centered around defensive end Shaq Lawson. However, there's another Tigers defensive lineman who has been rapidly climbing up draft boards left and right — defensive lineman Kevin Dodd.

The Atlanta Falcons, who have the No. 17 pick in this year's NFL Draft, is projected to take Dodd in the first round according to ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper. Dodd, although he interestingly enough didn't record a single sack until the 2015 season, is known for his pass-rush ability. Kiper cites Dodd's numbers when it comes to tackles for loss.

"Shaq Lawson led the nation in tackles for loss, but Dodd was right there with him, No. 2 in the nation, and a constant presence in the backfield. Kiper said via Falcons.com. "The Falcons added pass-rush help with Vic Beasley last year, but is Beasley an every-down player? At 275 pounds, Dodd has the frame to hold up against the run and should help a D-line that lacks depth."

Part of Dodd's recent high emergence on mock drafts is due to the splash he made during the Tigers' final three games of the 2015-16 season — against North Carolina, Oklahoma and Alabama he registered 4 sacks and 13 total tackles.

Assuming his invited to the NFL Combine, he's projected by NFL Draft Scout.com to run a 4.84 40-yard dash — close to his teammate Lawson, who's projected at 4.67. Don't get us wrong — Lawson has earned his right to be mentioned first before Dodd when discussing Clemson defensive lineman as future NFL prospects, but don't be surprised if a team — Atlanta or otherwise — gets a steal when picking Dodd this April