Jonathan Dowling Drafted by the Oakland Raiders

Dec. 26, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Central Michigan Chippewas wide receiver Cody Wilson (11) makes catch while being tackled by Western Kentucky Hilltoppers defensive back Jonathan Dowling (1) in the second quarter of the 2012 Little Caesars Bowl at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

A second Hilltopper has been drafted here in 2014, and it is former WKU safety Jonathan Dowling, who was drafted 247th overall by the Oakland Raiders.

Dowling only played two years on the Hill, after being recruited by and committing to Florida, but finished his career recording 135 total tackles, with 95 of them going for solo ones. He also lead all of the Sun Belt in interceptions in 2012 (6), as well as lead the NCAA in forced fumbles (6).

Dowling, much like we talked about with Andrew Jackson, has some maturing to do, but more so in his game than personality. Dowling is very much a big-hit player, not liking to bow to fundamental wrapping up to make a solid and sure-fire tackle. He wants to get on SportsCenter too badly. (Also, he was penalized, ejected and suspended for a late hit in the endzone in 2012.)

If Dowling can learn to become coachable, he should find himself on the field a healthy amount. His size at the safety position (6’3, 190) raised concerns, as he is seen by many to be “lankey,” and needs to put on some more muscle to compete with the true “big boys,” of the NFL, but he has good hands and a ball-hawk instinct that simply can’t be taught.

The drafting of both Jackson and Dowling marks the 8th time WKU has had two players drafted, but only the second time since 1991.

For a west-coast perspective, check out the coverage from our new pals Just Blog Baby.

The Draft is coming to a close, but hopefully A.A. can hear his name called before it’s all said and done.