SAFETIES

The Times takes a position-by-position look at the top college prospects and veteran free agents available:

TOP SAFETY PROSPECTS

Adam Archuleta, Arizona State, 5-11, 210--Is seemingly always around the ball, a credit to his anticipation. May take a year to adjust from college linebacker to pro safety, but is worth the wait. He is a projected first-round pick.

Derrick Gibson, Florida State, 6-1, 218--Has the size and physical ability to become a Pro Bowl safety. He loves to make the big hit and wraps up his tackles. Must work on coverage techniques. Possible first-round selection.

Gary Baxter, Baylor, 6-1, 204--Played cornerback in college but is projected as a safety by NFL scouts. A gifted playmaker, his coverage skills rank him near the top of this class. Exceptionally quick. Projected to be a second-round selection.

Hakim Akbar, Washington, 6-0, 210--Outstanding physically, he excels against the run, but his coverage technique needs work. Sometimes gets caught taking a risk.

Idrees Bashir, Memphis, 6-2, 206--A great cover safety who needs to improve his footwork and tackling.

BEST OF REST

Adrian Wilson, North Carolina State, 6-2, 212--Huge upside. Jarrod Cooper, Kansas State, 6-0, 222--Run stopper. James Boyd, Penn State, 5-11, 204--Reads routes well. Tony Driver, Notre Dame, 6-2, 210--Has knack for the ball. Marlon McCree, Kentucky, 5-10, 195--Linebacker in college.

SLEEPERS

Cory Hall, Appalachian State. 6-2, 205--Has the physical tools. Robert Carswell, Clemson, 5-11, 219--Loves to hit.

VETERAN FREE AGENTS

J.J. McClesky (Arizona), Damien Robinson (Tampa Bay), Brock Marion (Miami), Larry Whigham (New England), Tim Hauck (Philadelphia).

* NEXT: CORNERBACKS