National Football League

2017 NFL Mock Draft: DeShone Kizer, defensive stars headline class

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 5:47 p.m. ET

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The order for the 2017 NFL Draft continues to change from week to week, aside from who holds the top spot. Here is our latest mock draft.

The Cleveland Browns continue to be in line for the first overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft, after a drubbing at the hands of the New England Patriots on Sunday. As the NFL calendar moves towards Week 6, we take a look at a brand new draft order for April’s draft. A few playoff teams from last season have started slowly through five weeks, and could be picking higher in the draft then they are used to.

Here is a look at the 2017 NFL Draft after Week 5 of the NFL season.

Oct 1, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws in the second quarter against the Syracuse Orange at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

DeShone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

There is no doubt that the Cleveland Browns will be going quarterback with the first pick of the 2017 NFL Draft, as their current situation is a calamity. On Sunday, Cody Kessler became the third Browns starting quarterback to miss time due to an injury, as the team turned to Charlie Whitehurst to finish the game. Cleveland was hoping that signing Robert Griffin III in the off-season would stop the bleeding, but this season has gone from bad, to worse.

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The team expects to get Josh McCown back soon, and that should help for the rest of this season. However, they are in desperate need of that franchise quarterback they thought they were drafting in guys like Tim Couch, Johnny Manziel, Brady Quinn, and Brandon Weeden, all taken in the first round. Since returning to the NFL in 1999, the team has started 26 different quarterbacks, which is by far the most in that span of time.

DeShone Kizer is a redshirt sophomore, and while he has not had a ton of experience, he is the most gifted quarterback in the draft. He has the arm, speed, and size to compete at the next level, and already has the pressure of playing for the University of Notre Dame. He would be expected to come in and revive the franchise, which based on his skill set, is the best quarterback available in this draft to do so.

The Cleveland Browns are a long way away from being relevant in the NFL, but they do have some nice young pieces on their roster. Wide receiver Corey Coleman showed flashes before being injured, and Joe Haden is a solid defensive back. Spending this pick on a good, young quarterback could be just what the team needs to retain future Hall of Fame tackle Joe Thomas after the season.

Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) hits Furman Paladins quarterback P.J. Blazejowski (7) during the first quarter at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

The San Diego Chargers continue to find ways to lose, and on Sunday, a botched field goal attempt led to their demise in the fourth quarter. The team has been decimated by injuries this season, and just does not have the depth to overcome it on either side of the ball. They did get back their first round pick from a year ago in time for the game on Sunday, but they still fell to 1-4.

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Last year, the Chargers spent their first round selection on Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa, who registered two sacks in his NFL debut against the Raiders this past Sunday. If the Chargers continue to struggle and are saddled with a top pick again in 2017, they will likely go defense again. Malik McDowell is the kind of defensive tackle who can plug the holes, and with Bosa on the outside, it would give San Diego a nice young nucleus on the defensive line.

The Chargers have been a disappointment the last few seasons, after dominating the AFC West for so long. San Diego already has two Big Ten products on their defensive front in Bosa and Corey Liuget, so adding McDowell, who plays for Michigan State, would give them a three-headed Big Ten monster. He would be perfect for San Diego’s 3-4 scheme, and could be used all over the defensive line.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (11) during the first quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

The Miami Dolphins need a lot of help, and yes, they could go quarterback with the No. 3 pick in the draft. However, head coach Adam Gase appears ready to go with Ryan Tannehill for the foreseeable future, sticking with the 28-year old quarterback out of Texas A&M. If the team does pass up on an arm at three, look for them to scoop up another Texas A&M product in Myles Garrett.

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Garrett has all the intangibles to be a dominant player right out of the gate in the NFL. He is a punishing tackler, who has the size and speed to get up and down the field. An intimidating presence since his first snap for the Aggies, Garrett would give the Dolphins another star defensive player alongside Ndamukong Suh. So far, Suh has not been worth the money for Miami.

Suh is still an force on the defensive side of the ball, and adding Garrett would only help take some of the pressure off of him on the inside. The Dolphins are looking for an identity under Gase, and play in a division where defense is key. Picks this high are expected to step in a perform right away, and Garrett would do just that for Miami. He is just too good of a player to pass up if he is still available at 3.

Oct 7, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball against Boston College during the first quarter at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

The San Francisco 49ers have a gaping hole at the quarterback position, one in which they are trying desperately to fill this season. After starting the year with Blaine Gabbert under center, the team made the move to Colin Kaepernick this week. First-year head coach Chip Kelly is still looking to make his mark on the NFL game, after being one of the more innovative college coaches in recent memory.

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It does not take a crystal ball to know that the 49ers are going to be selecting towards the top of the first round in 2017, and there are a handful of quarterbacks to choose from. Kizer is likely to be off the board by No. 4, but Clemson’s Deshaun Watson is one heck of a consolation prize. A preseason favorite for the Heisman Trophy, Watson has had an up and down season for the Tigers, but has all the tools to be a very good NFL quarterback.

Kelly loves to run an uptempo offense, and Watson would be perfect for that kind of scheme. He has the ability to make plays with his arm, and his legs, and shows the kind of poise in the pocket you usually do not see with college quarterbacks. If San Francisco pulls the trigger on a quarterback early in the 2017 NFL Draft, they would hit the jackpot with a guy of Watson’s ability.

Oct 8, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) throws a pass during the first half against Florida State Seminoles at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Kaaya

QB, University of Miami

It is time to turn the page on the Jay Cutler era in Chicago, as fans and players are getting tired of his act. He shows no passion playing the quarterback position, and a fa nbase like the Chicago Bears have deserves better. There is no doubt that Cutler is as physically talented as any quarterback in the NFL, but he does not appear to have the drive to lead a team to the Promised Land.

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Down at the University of Miami, there is a quarterback who could step in right away and take the reigns from Cutler in Chicago. Though he does not get a ton of publicity, Brad Kaaya has slowly become one of the better quarterback prospects in all of college football. In a huge game this past weekend against the hated Florida State Seminoles, Kaaya showed incredible touch on his balls, which is something NFL scouts drool over.

After throwing 12 interceptions as a true freshman in 2014, Kaaya has thrown nine picks in his last two years combined. He is very smart with the ball, which is something that Bears fans are not used to seeing. Cutler has been so bad that the fans are actually happy that Brian Hoyer is their starting quarterback. The franchise needs a new leader, and Kaaya would be a nice upgrade at the quarterback position.

Oct 8, 2016; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Jabrill Peppers (5) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at High Points Solutions Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

Jabrill Peppers

DB, Michigan

There really is no place like home. Jabrill Peppers is from East Orange, New Jersey, which is only a short drive from Metlife Stadium, where the New York Jets play their home games. Peppers, who starred at nearby Paramus Catholic High School, would be a welcome addition to any franchise, but with the Jets, he would be an instant fan favorite.

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Jets fans are known for booing their selections on draft night, but that would certainly not be the case if they select Peppers. The star linebacker came home this past week to play against Big Ten foe Rutgers, and put on a superhuman show in the team’s 78-0 victory. He excelled on both sides of the ball, and at some points, looked like he was a video game character.

The New York Jets have plenty of pieces in place to be a contender in the AFC, but they are lacking that one star who can take over a game. Peppers has a Charles Woodson-type quality in him, and could follow Woodson’s footsteps to a Heisman Trophy this season. He would be a perfect fit for what the Jets try to do on defense, and could also help out in the secondary, returning punts, as well as the Wildcat.

Sep 24, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) carries against the Auburn Tigers during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

It seems like Leonard Fournette can not get out of college quick enough. The star running back for the LSU Tigers has had a decent season in the Bayou, but nothing like what was expected of him during the preseason. Many believed he would rush his way to a Heisman Trophy, but the 2016 season has been a bit of a lost one for the junior.

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Fournette did not play in two of the Tigers first four games due to injury, and the team’s game against Florida was cancelled this past weekend due to Hurricane Matthew. When he has played, he has gone for over 100 yards in each of the three games, but the Tigers have been a major disappointment this season. Some believe he should just sit out the rest of the season, and get ready to bring his talents to the NFL game.

The Carolina Panthers have a nice running back in Jonathan Stewart, but he is getting way up there in age. On Monday night, with Stewart out, the Panthers used the tandem of Fozzy Whitaker and Cameron Artis-Payne in their 17-14 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Adding Fournette to the roster would take a ton of pressure off of quarterback Cam Newton, who is relied upon to take big hits trying to score in the red zone. Fournette would be a perfect compliment to Newton on offense.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) in action during the game against the USC Trojans at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

The first offensive lineman off the board on draft night is sure to be Cam Robinson, the big offensive tackle from the University of Alabama. Robinson is a dominating force up front for the Crimson Tide, who appear on their way to another national championship. Jacksonville has a ton of talented weapons on the offensive side of the ball, and Robinson could be an All-Pro type player on the line.

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Blake Bortles is regarded as one of the better young quarterbacks in the league, and wide receivers Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns are one of the best tandems in the AFC. After the 2016 season, four of the team’s starting offensive lineman will be free agents, so grabbing a stud lineman is going to be key for the franchise going forward. Robinson will likely be used as a guard, or right tackle in the NFL.

Jacksonville plays in a very winnable division, and one good draft class could vault them up to the top of the AFC South. Bortles and company are solid, and second-year running back T.J. Yeldon is still coming into his own. Robinson would be a key addition to the run game as well, giving the Jags arguably the best young group of talent on the offensive side in the division.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) celebrates after recovering an onside kick during the fourth quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Humphrey

Cornerback, Alabama

The New Orleans Saints need a lot of help on the defensive end, specifically in their secondary. The offense still has a ton of firepower with Drew Brees under center, but the defense cannot seem to stop anyone. Other teams in the division are getting better on the offensive side of the ball, specifically the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers.

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Marlon Humphrey is the kind of defensive back that can come in and be the leader in the secondary. He plays in an advanced system at the University of Alabama, and after bursting onto the scene as a redshirt freshman in the National Championship Game last season, has already gotten first round buzz. The Saints would be a perfect fit for him, and he is likely to leave the Crimson Tide after this season.

There may not be too many more good years in Brees’ arm, so the Saints need to do whatever they can to shore up their holes on defense. Humphrey is definitely a first round talent, and should be the first cornerback off the board in April. The team also needs help up front on defense, but being able to stop the likes of Matt Ryan and Cam Newton from picking them apart in the secondary is the most pressing issue at this point.

Oct 8, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first half against Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

The Indianapolis Colts have one of the best young quarterbacks in all of football, and have no issues moving the ball through the air. Prior to the 2015 season, the team picked up veteran running back Frank Gore to take some of the pressure off of Andrew Luck, and he has played very well for the Colts. Still, he is nearing the end of his excellent career, and the team is in need of a new feature back.

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Enter Dalvin Cook, who is one of the better collegiate running backs we have seen in a long time. Cook is the kind of runner who can run over, or around you, and he has been a record-setting back at Florida State. His time at the university is certain to come to a close at the end of the 2016 season, and he is one of the more NFL-ready players in this draft.

Running backs are not always valued in the NFL Draft these days, but guys like Cook and Fournette are hard to pass up. He can be the kind of back that Luck has never had in his career, and should be able to keep defenses honest. Indianapolis is not too far away from being a contender once again in the AFC, and they are not going to want to waste any more of Luck’s good years. Look for Cook to be the pick if he is still available for the Colts at No. 10.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Anthony Wales (20) is grabbed from behind by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) and defensive back Eddie Jackson (4) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Tide defeated the Hilltoppers 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

The Detroit Lions have a lot of holes to fill, but the offensive side of the ball is in better shape than the defensive side. Since Ndamukong Suh left, the team has not had the kind of pressure up front that can change a game around. Adding a player like Jonathan Allen from the University of Alabama would give the team an impact player up front going into the 2017 season.

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Allen is a versatile player, who can be used in the interior line, and on the outside. He runs a sub 4.8 40, and is the kind of player who needs to be double, and triple teamed at times. The former high school linebacker was twice named All-SEC on defense, and is coming off a 2015 season where he registered 12 sacks.

The senior has played in some huge games during his time at Alabama, and is one of the more NFL-ready defensive players in this year’s draft. The Lions play in a very tough division, which features teams like the Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings. They are a distant third in the NFC North, and missing on a draft pick in April could set them back even further. Allen is a safe, solid choice at 11.

Sep 17, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) makes a pass during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Alabama won 48-43. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

Chad Kelly

QB, Ole Miss

The Arizona Cardinals are off to a horrid start to the 2016 season, after being a favorite to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl during the preseason. Quarterback Carson Palmer has been a godsend since coming over from the Oakland Raiders a few years back, but injuries are starting to take their toll. He suffered a concussion in Week 4 that forced him to miss the team’s Week 5 game against San Francisco, though the team still throttled the 49ers.

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Still, the team will need to find a new quarterback soon, as Drew Stanton is definitely not the answer to take over in the desert. Palmer may have two good season left, which makes this the perfect time to draft his successor. Ole Miss quarterback Chad Kelly is one of the better NFL prospects at the position, and could take the reigns when Palmer is ready to call it a career.

Kelly, who is the nephew of a certain Hall of Fame quarterback from the Buffalo Bills, has the arm strength to succeed at the next level. He has come up huge in big games for Ole Miss, playing in the best conference in college football. The senior is a tough kid, who can take the hits and keep driving his team down the field. His game translates to the NFL, and would be a nice grab at 12 if he is still available.

Sep 3, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) against the Bowling Green Falcons at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 77-10. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Raekwon McMillan

LB, Ohio State

Since stepping onto the field as a freshman for the Ohio State Buckeyes, Raekwon McMillan has proven to be one of the best linebackers in all of college football. A former freshman All-American, McMillan has earned the right to be a captain for Urban Meyer’s Buckeyes, and could be one of the best linebackers in the upcoming draft. The Bengals need help at the linebacker position, and McMillan could jump right in and be a force.

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Playing his collegiate ball in the state of Ohio, the junior’s fans would be able to stay instate to see him play for the Cincinnati Bengals. At 6-foot-2, McMillan has the size to play on the outside, though he has been a beast at the inside linebacker position for Ohio State. During his college days, McMillan has played alongside talent like Joey Bosa and Darron Lee, but the scouts have noticed him as well.

McMillan is a quiet kid, who likes to lead by example. That kind of attitude would fit perfectly into the kind of culture set by Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. Coming into the 2016 season, the Ohio State defense was very inexperienced, and McMillan has served as a leader for the young group. He is going to be a great pro, and the Bengals could find a gem if they stay instate and draft McMillan.

Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Jazz Peavy (11) is tackled by LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) after catching a pass during the second quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

The safety position is a definite need for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have some dynamite weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback Jameis Winston and wide receiver Mike Evans should an excellent duo for years to come, and Doug Martin is a stud at running back when he is healthy. The knock on the Bucs have been their defense, which can look very weak against the pass.

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The Bucs have a pretty soft secondary, as Chris Conte and Bradley McDougald are not considered great players at their position. Adams has reminded people of another LSU safety of his size, Tyrann Mathieu, who has been a star since coming into the NFL. Adams has the same kind of play-making ability as Mathieu, and would instantly upgrade the Bucs at the safety position.

Tampa Bay is very young, and they have a brand new head coach in Dirk Koetter. The team may be a year or so away from being considered an actual contender in the NFC South, and adding a player like Adams is just another stepping stone along the way. The son of former New York Giants first-round pick George Adams, the younger Adams is one of those safeties who loves to come up and help in run support as well, making him a versatile player to have in the secondary.

Oct 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) is pursued by Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Ahkello Witherspoon (23) in the fourth quarter during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. USC defeated Colorado 21-17. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

JuJu Smith-Schuster

WR, USC

The term NFL ready definitely applies here, as JuJu Smith-Schuster could be the next big wide receiver to come out of USC since Keyshawn Johnson. Smith-Schuster is an absolute play-maker for the USC Trojans, who has really come on as of late since the team made the switch to Sam Darnold at the quarterback position. JuJu has the kind of skills that can change a game in a heartbeat, and would be a welcome target for fellow Pac-12 alum Marcus Mariota.

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The 22-year old Mariota is coming off a four-touchdown game against the Miami Dolphins last week, and is fully entrenched as the team’s franchise quarterback. Wide receiver Tajae Sharpe has played extremely well this season, and is the team’s top option at the wideout position. Smith-Schuster could step right in as the WR1 for the Titans, moving Sharpe to WR2, and giving Mariota a solid tandem of receivers on the outside.

Last season, Smith-Schuster caught 89 balls for over 1,400 yards for a Trojan team that made it to the Pac-12 Championship. He started out slowly this season, mostly due to Max Browne not getting him the ball, but has retaken his spot as the best wide receiver in the Pac-12. He has gone for over 100 yards in each of the past two games, as USC has begun to turn their season around. He would make an immediate impact at the NFL level, and would be a steal for the Titans at 15.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes past Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) during the second half at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Barnett

DE, University of Tennessee

When the New York Giants are winning Super Bowls, it is because of their unit up front on the defensive line. In recent years, the Giants defense has looked like a leaky faucet, allowing teams to run all over them. Last season, they were arguably the worst defensive team in all of football, and while they have improved this season, they still have a lot of work to do on that side of the ball.

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Enter Derek Barnett, who is as good a linebacker as there is in college football. The junior from the University of Tennessee is an absolute quarterback killer, who has the size and speed to be an impact player at the NFL level tomorrow. The Giants may be only a few pieces away from returning to glory, and a player of Barnett’s caliber can get them there fast.

Playing in the SEC where Myles Garrett is king at his position, Barnett does not get as much publicity as he does. However, Barnett is nearly as talented as Garrett, and has had ten sacks in each of his first two seasons with the Volunteers. He already has sacked the quarterback five times through the team’s first six games, and has 9.5 tackles for a loss. He is a play-maker on the defensive end, and would team with Jason Pierre-Paul to form a nice book end for the G-Men next season.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) in the first quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

LB, Alabama

The Kansas City Chiefs have had the luxury of having Derrick Johnson patrolling the linebacker position for more than a decade, as he has become one of the best in the business. Unfortunately, Father Time catches up with everyone, and Johnson is going to be 34 years old this season. The Chiefs are going to need to find his replacement sooner than later, and that man could be Reuben Foster.

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Foster has been one of the main cogs in the Alabama Crimson Tide’s defensive machine for the past few seasons. Considered by many to be one of the more feared hitters in all of college football, Foster has come out of the shadow of SEC Defensive Player of the Year Reggie Ragland. In fact, many people believe that Foster is more athletic that Ragland, and he projects better to the NFL game.

Playing in the AFC West, it is very important to have a solid core of linebackers. The Chiefs have always been a hard hitting bunch, and adding Foster would extend their lineage of solid linebackers who love to hit people. The division is loaded with offensive talent, and what separates the Chiefs are their ability to shut people down. Foster has done that his whole career at Alabama, and he will be able to do that at the NFL level.

Nov 29, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (12) intercepts Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (not pictured) during the first quarter at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Quincy Wilson

CB, University of Florida

The Tennessee Titans would pick twice in four picks if the season ended tomorrow, thanks to the trade they made with the Los Angeles Rams before the 2016 NFL Draft. The Titans traded away their No .1 overall pick, which the Rams used to select Jared Goff. As of now that trade looks like a win for the Titans, as Goff still has yet to throw a pass in a regular season game for Los Angeles.

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Having two picks in the first round is definitely a luxury, and after going offense earlier, the team should go the defensive route at No. 18. Aside from Jason McCourty, the Titans cornerback situation is a hot mess. Quincy Wilson has been a stud at the position during his time with the Florida Gators, and his skill set is perfect for the NFL.

Wilson, alongside fellow NFL prospect Teez Tabor, has given the Gators one of the better secondaries in the SEC since he arrived on campus. The junior has the size to play at the next level, and although he does not have blazing speed, he reacts very well when the ball is in the air. The AFC South is loaded with good quarterbacks, and if the Titans want to legitimately contend, they are going to have to shore up their weak secondary. Wilson can help do that immediately.

Oct 1, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) is congratulated by offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) after Notre Dame defeated the Syracuse Orange 50-33 at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Notre Dame

Mike McGlinchey is a big man, and has the perfect demeanor for the city of Buffalo. He is as hard a worker as they come, and has spent his time at Notre Dame helping rebuild the program into national contenders once again. There are not many players on the offensive line in this draft that can hold a candle to Big Mike, and he will likely be the second offensive tackle off of the board next April.

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BuffaLowDown 2dBuffalo Bills Fantasy Football: Week 5 Top Three Performers

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With McGlinchey, the Bills would be getting the kind of offensive lineman that they can build around. Tyrod Taylor has emerged as a franchise quarterback for head coach Rex Ryan, who usually likes to take defensive players in the draft. Seeing McGlinchey fall to his team would be too hard to pass up, as he has the ability to step in and be a difference maker right away.

The 6-foot-7 McGlinchey made the move to left tackle this season, after playing alongside 2016 first round selection Ronnie Stanley last year. There are not many better offensive lineman in this draft, and if McGlinchey falls to 19, the Bills could be getting a new cornerstone on their offensive line. The Bills have made bad mistakes at the draft in the past, but McGlinchey would be a nice, safe pick to help bolster their line for years to come.

Oct 31, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive tackle Lowell Lotulelei (93) rushes as Oregon State Beavers quarterback Nick Mitchell (14) passes the ball during the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 27-12. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Lowell Lotulelei

NG, Utah

The Utah Utes have one of the better defensive units in the Pac-12, and a lot of the thanks has to go to their star nose guard. Lowell Lotulelei is an absolute monster up front for the Utes, who are only one of two Pac-12 teams ranked in the top-25. Lotulelei has the speed, and bulk to clog up the middle of the line, and would be a perfect fit on a Washington Redskins defense that struggles to stop the run.

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Riggo's Rag 1 wWashington Redskins Fantasy Slant: Redskin To Start And Others Across The League To Play

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The issue for the Redskins has been that they get pushed back on both the offensive, and defensive lines, making life extremely hard for quarterback Kirk Cousins. The secondary in Washington has some good talent on it, but the front line gets no rush, leading to big plays. Defensive backs can only cover for so long until the receiver gets open, so adding a pass rusher like Lotulelei would be an instant upgrade to their defense as a whole.

Lotulelei’s brother, Star, is the current starting nose tackle for the Carolina Panthers, and their games mirror each other. Lotulelei is never going to be all over the stat sheet, but he makes his presence felt by eating up double teams, and tackling in tight spaces. He makes opposing lineman look like punters sometimes with the way he manhandles them. He is an underclassman, so he may not declare for the draft, but if he does, he would be a great addition to the Skins.

Oct 3, 2015; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive end Dawuane Smoot (91) sacks Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. (4) at Memorial Stadium. The Fighting Illini won 14 – 13. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports

Dawuane Smoot

DE, University of Illinois

The Baltimore Ravens have been known to have great defensive players throughout the last 15 years, as guys like Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs have wrecked havoc on opponents. Unfortunately for Ravens fans, Lewis is long one, and Suggs is starting to get long in the tooth. The team is looking for their next big pass rusher, and Dawuane Smoot may be just what the doctor ordered.

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Smoot has an explosive first step, and has had the luxury of playing for one of the more respected coaches in all of football. Illinois is coached by Lovie Smith, who led the Chicago Bears to a Super Bowl during his time as their coach. Smoot has the kind of instincts that are rare from a kid his age, and Baltimore fans would love his motor.

The Ravens have had their issues on offense this season, and recently fired offensive coordinator Marc Trestman. Still, the defense has always been the unit that has led them to the Super Bowl, and they need to reload before it is too late. Prior to the season, Lovie Smith told Dawuane Smoot that he wanted to make him a first rounder, and the coach has done just that. Look for Smoot to land in the first round, with Baltimore being a perfect fit.

Sep 24, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

The Houston Texans have been looking for that big-time tight end since Owen Daniels was catching touchdown passes from Matt Schaub. That sounds like decades ago, and for some Texans fans, it probably feels that way. The next tight end for the Texans could be O.J. Howard, whose athleticism translates well to the NFL game.

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Howard is 6-foot-6, and is an a freak of an athlete. He has extremely soft hands, and while he is not featured much in the Alabama offense, his game is built for the NFL. Houston has extremely talented wideouts, and they just paid quarterback Brock Osweiler a ton of money to be their franchise quarterback. The addition of Howard would give the young signal-caller another huge weapon in the passing game.

Houston has some great players on the defensive side of the ball, and if they can get healthy, they should be able to challenge in the AFC very soon. DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller are both stud wide receivers who love to go deep, so having a guy like Howard who can go over the middle would be huge for Houston. He may not fall this low, but the Texans also may not play well enough to be picking this late in the draft anyway.

Sep 17, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) during the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Teez Tabor

CB, University of Florida

The Browns are certain to go with a quarterback with the first overall selection, and thanks to the Philadelphia Eagles, they will get another chance to make a splash in the first round. The Browns traded their No. 2 pick to the Birds prior to the 2016 NFL Draft, a pick that would go on to become Carson Wentz. The quarterback out of North Dakota State has gone on to be one of the better rookies in all of football this season, and was definitely worth this pick for Philadelphia.

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Cleveland needs as many players as they can get, and after going offense at No. 1, they should go with a defensive player with their second pick of the round. Teez Tabor is one of the better cornerbacks in all of college football, and possesses the speed and size to start right away. The Browns have one solid corner in Joe Haden, so the addition of Tabor would give them incredible depth at this very important position on the defense.

Tabor plays in the SEC, so he is used to playing against big time talent every week. The only issue with Tabor is that he has had some off the field incidents, so teams may want to shy away from him early on. He has all the talent to be a top-10 pick, but could fall to the Browns at this slot next April. If Cleveland can solidify their secondary, it will make life much easier in a very winnable AFC North next season.

Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) rushes the ball against the Washington Huskies during the second half at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

Last season, Christian McCaffrey lit up college football, en-route to one of the more productive seasons in the history of the sport. He led the Stanford Cardinal to a Pac-12 Championship, while finishing as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. This season, defenses have not been so kind to the running back, and he is not finding the end zone quite as much as he did last year. Still, he is a first round talent, and would be a welcome addition if he is available to the Green Bay Packers late in the first.

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McCaffrey can do a little bit of everything, and would be a nice back to add to their depth chart at he running back position. Eddie Lacy is a very good running back, but he can get out of shape and be useless at times. James Starks is a nice change of pace back, but he has not shown the ability to handle the load. McCaffrey could come in and grab the starting role from Lacy, giving Aaron Rodgers a speedster out of the backfield.

The Packers love to spread the ball around, and a guy like McCaffrey would work well in their offense. Green Bay is known for taking shots downfield, and having McCaffrey in the backfield would give Rodgers a solid checkdown option. He can also be used in the return game, as he has shown the ability to break the big one from time to time. Whichever way the Pack decides to use him, he instantly makes their offense better.

Sep 10, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans offensive tackle Zach Banner (73) defends against Utah State Aggies defensive end Ricky Ali

Zach Banner

OT, USC

The Seattle Seahawks are one of the better teams in the NFC, and they play in one of the worst divisions in all of football. Russell Wilson was an incredible find in the second round a few years back, and has led the team to two Super Bowls in the last three seasons. The problem with Seattle is that they need help at the offensive tackle spot, and Banner could fill either role for the team.

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Banner is a big man, who is listed at 6-foot-9. He has the prototypical size to be a starting tackle in the NFL, and has played in some big games for the University of Southern California. An All-American candidate, Banner is extremely athletic, and even played basketball at USC early in his collegiate career. He has played both right and left tackle during his time with the Trojans, and has dominated at both positions.

Seattle is a player or two away from getting back to the Super Bowl, and although most would think they need help in other area, offensive tackle is their biggest weakness. They have good skill players on both sides of the ball, and if they can protect Wilson, he should be able to be productive for the next five or so years. Oh yeah, his dad is also Lincoln Kennedy. Enough said.

Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

The Denver Broncos have one of the better defensive units in the NFL, as they have dominated the AFC over the past two seasons. However, one place on the defense they may be looking to go younger is at safety, where their two starters are at least 28 years old. This game is a young mans game, and even the best defensive backs slow down after time. Hooker would be a nice compliment to T.J. Ward and Darian Stewart early in his rookie year, before taking over in year two.

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The redshirt sophomore grabbed the starting job during the spring, after playing sparingly in his first season in 2015. He has emerged as one of the better defensive backs in the Big Ten, and has the intangibles to be a solid player at the next level. Hooker is an absolute ball-hawk, and has already picked off four passes through the team’s first five games. He is also a heavy hitter, and would be used at the strong safety spot at the next level.

At 6-foot-2, Hooker has the size to be a solid player in the NFL. He does not shy away from contact, and has the uncanny ability to break on the ball at the right time. The Denver Broncos know how to coach them up on defense, and Hooker is a student of the game. He did everything he had to to earn the starting job at Ohio State, and is going to be a play-maker on Sundays.

Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) returns a fumble by Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Austin Allen (not pictured) for a touchdown as defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) trails the play during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Williams

LB, Alabama

Tim Williams has had off the field incidents during his time at the University of Alabama, but hey, that has never stopped the New England Patriots before. He was recently arrested for allegations that included marijuana and a pistol, but that should not be enough to keep the Pats at bay. Williams is the kind of edge rusher that head coach Bill Belichick loves, and would fit right into their system.

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The Patriots will have to make a bunch of decisions after this season, as they have plenty of defensive stars that are set to hit free agency. Belichick has a history of letting people walk, replacing them with rookies or retreads. Williams is loaded with athleticism, and could fit multiple roles in Belichick’s defensive schemes.

A senior, Williams has been a part of some special teams during his time with the Crimson Tide. He has played for a legend in Nick Saban, and if he goes to the Patriots, he will be playing for another legend in Belichick. He has all the intangibles to succeed at the NFL level, but he has to make sure he does the right thing off the field. If there is one thing we have learned about Belichick, one strike and you are out.

Oct 1, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) returns a punt against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Desmond King

CB, University of Iowa

The Atlanta Falcons have proven to be one of the better teams in the NFL this season, and appear headed for a playoff appearance. They have shown the world they can beat teams like the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos in recent weeks, two squads who played in the Super Bowl this past February. Already loaded on the offensive side of the ball, Atlanta will likely go defense in round one, and their secondary could certainly use the help.

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The 2015 Thorpe Award winner is an electric player, and has helped the Iowa Hawkeyes on both defense, and special teams. While not the fastest guy on the team, King has the instincts needed to be successful at the next level, and would be a steal for the Falcons this late in the draft. Atlanta plays in a division that loves to air it out, and King would be a nice upgrade to their weak secondary.

Last season, King led the Big Ten with eight interceptions, which has certainly made teams shy away from him this year. He has yet to grab a pick this season, mostly because he shuts down the person across from him. He is a physical cornerback, who would be able to hang with receivers at the next level. He may not win a sprinting race, but he also is not going to get burnt.

Oct 7, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a pass as Boston College Eagles defensive back Isaac Yiadom (20) defends on the play during the first quarter at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

The Dallas Cowboys struck gold during the 2016 NFL Draft, as they picked their quarterback, and running back of the future. Well, at least that is what they had thought, as both players have made an immediate impact on the field in 2016. Dak Prescott has been unbelievable under center for the Cowboys, who lost starting quarterback Tony Romo to a broken back in the preseason. Ezekiel Elliott was supposed to play right away, and he currently leads the NFL in rushing.

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At 4-1, the Cowboys have turned a lot of heads this season, and could be picking late in the first round in April. If available, the team should draft Mike Williams, who is one of the better wide receivers in all of college football. Sure, he has the luxury of playing with one of the best quarterbacks in the land, but he is an incredible player in his own right.

Current Cowboys star wide receiver Dez Bryant continues to get bit by the injury bug, and despite being loaded with talent, seems to miss games an awful lot. Adding a player like Williams will give the Cowboys the kind of depth they are going to need if they want to consistently win. Guys like Cole Beasley and Terrance Williams are nice role players, but are no where near as talented as Williams. Adding the star from Clemson would give the team incredible depth at the wide receiver position going forward.

Oct 10, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines cornerback Jourdan Lewis (26) scores a touchdown on an interception in the second quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jourdan Lewis

CB, Michigan

The Oakland Raiders are one of the hottest teams in the NFL this season, and many feel they will reach the playoffs for the first time since 2002. Derek Carr has emerged as one of the best young quarterbacks in all of football, and they have incredible weapons at wide receiver position. Running back Latavius Murray is an All-Pro back, and head coach Jack Del Rio has completely turned around the culture for the Silver and Black.

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Unfortunately, the defense continues to struggle, and last week, gave up a ton of points to a short-handed San Diego Chargers team. The Raiders spent a high draft choice on D.J. Hayden back in 2013, and the young cornerback has not played up to the potential he showed at Houston. It may be time to dip into the well and grab another corner with a first round pick four years later.

Jourdan Lewis is a big-time player, and has become a key part of Jim Harbaugh’s defense for the undefeated Michigan Wolverines. Raiders fans have a soft spot for defensive backs from Michigan, as they said goodbye to Charles Woodson last season. The team made some moves in the offseason to shore up their deficiency at corner, but it has not worked. Lewis would be a nice grab late in the first round.

Sep 17, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets running back Dedrick Mills (26) scores a rushing touchdown against Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) and cornerback Tre Herndon (31) in the third quarter of their game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Yellow Jackets won 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Zach Cunningham

LB, Vanderbilt

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of those franchises who are synonymous with defense, so it is not surprising that they would go defense in the first round. The team could lose some big linebackers this offseason, as Lawrence Timmons and Jarvis Jones are in the final year of their contracts. Adding a good, young linebacker could be the route they choose to go, especially if they are picking towards the bottom of the first round.

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Zach Cunningham is not a household name, but he certainly should be. The star linebacker from Vanderbilt has a motor that just won’t quit, and he flies all over the field making plays. He was voted by the coaches in the SEC as a first-team player, after racking up 16.5 tackles for a loss last year. At 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Cunningham is the perfect size to play linebacker at the next level, and the Steelers would be lucky to grab him this late.

There are plenty of solid SEC linebackers in this draft, but Cunningham could wind up being the best of the bunch if he winds up in a system like Pittsburgh. The place is a factory for linebackers, and Cunningham has the intangibles to succeed at the next level. He has been the best player on a bad team for a long time, but that would all change if he puts on the yellow and black for the Steelers.

10 October 2015: Indiana G Dan Feeney (67) pass blocks. The Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the Indiana Hoosiers 29-7 at Beaver Stadium in State College, PA. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire) (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire/Corbis via Getty Images)

Dan Feeney

OG, Indiana University

The Philadelphia Eagles did not have a first round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft until late in the preseason, when the Minnesota Vikings happened to need a quarterback. Starter Teddy Bridgewater blew up his knee during practice, and the Vikings made a trade with the Eagles for Sam Bradford. Well, that trade has turned out good for both sides, as Bradford has the Vikings at 5-0 in the early going.

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The Eagles decided to move rookie Carson Wentz into the starting role, and that ended up being a great decision as well. Wentz is an early favorite for Rookie of the Year, after leading the Eagles to a 3-1 record through the first five weeks. For Bradford, the Eagles picked up the Vikings first round pick, among other things, which at this point would be the last pick of the first round. With that pick, the Birds should go offensive line, and Indiana guard Dan Feeney would be a great selection at 32.

Feeney has been an All-American at Indiana, and has the size and power to move defensive lineman with ease. He could have made himself eligible for the draft last year, but decided to go back to school for one more season. Incredibly, Feeney has allowed only one sack in three-plus years as a starter. Wentz is the key asset in the organization, so spending a first rounder on a player that will protect him, makes perfect sense.