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2017 NFL Mock Draft: NFC West Makes Major Power Play

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Nov 5, 2016; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) scores a touchdown on his forth quarter run against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Kenan Memorial Stadium. The North Carolina Tar Heels defeated the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 48-20. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

There hasn’t been much change to the top 10 in terms of pecking order but this latest 2017 NFL mock draft reflects a major shift in team needs.

Some teams no longer can ignore their acute quarterback concerns while others are content knowing that this class is filled with a lot of question marks. There are plenty of top talents at other positions though, which makes the early selections quite fascinating to watch. None more so than the #1 pick. Will Cleveland throw a curveball?

1. Cleveland Browns

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

Mitch Trubisky is the hot name in most circles of late, and with good reason. The North Carolina standout has shown himself to be arguably the most complete prospect at that position. He’s got the size, athleticism and mobility to run. His arm is strong enough to make throws down the field and he demonstrates good touch and accuracy. His biggest drawback thus far is experience. It’s his first year starting. So the coaches will have to be careful with how much they put on his plate.

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

2. San Francisco 49ers

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

That changes with the arrival of Myles Garrett. Widely considered the best prospect in the 2017 class, he is a force when going after the quarterback. A rare mix of size, strength and explosion. He plays with plenty of speed but can often outmuscle blockers too. The arsenal of different moves is already diverse and growing. He can play defensive end or outside linebacker. There isn’t a scheme he doesn’t fit. Such players are hard to find and can’t be passed up.

Nov 5, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) sacks LSU Tigers quarterback Danny Etling (16) during the first quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

3. Carolina Panthers (via JAX)

Panthers get #3 pick

Jaguars get #6 picks, 2nd in 2017 and 4th in 20183

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

There really isn’t a lot to hate about Jonathan Allen. He may lack the pure athleticism and flash of Garrett but he’s a proven pass rusher with size, power and deceptive quickness. He runs with a consistently hot motor and is difficult to block both on pass and run plays. Give his a sliver of an opening and he’ll take full advantage of it. Put him on that line with Kawann Short and Star Lotulelei and Carolina will really have something cooking in that defense.

Nov 5, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. (4) is tackled by Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) in the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. Armstrong would be taken from the field directly to a nearby hospital. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

4. Chicago Bears

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

Immediately people will ask why him and not the hot name Jabrill Peppers if they were targeting a safety? Simple math: 5-0. That is how many interceptions Hooker has in 2016 compared to Peppers. It’s obvious that Hooker has substantially more instinct and ball skills in coverage. That is something the Bears defense is sorely missing on the back end. He’s also 6’2″ and shows plenty of willingness to play near the line of scrimmage. This is a top tier talent who is made to play on Sundays.

Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs as guard Josh Boutte (76) blocks Arkansas Razorbacks linebacker Dwayne Eugene (35) during the second quarter of the game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

5. New York Jets

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

Often the best way to do that is by taking responsibilities off their plate. That means a good defense couples with a power running game. Leonard Fournette is the most talented runner in the 2017 class. He has that rare mix of size, speed, power, vision and quickness. Tough enough to run between the tackles but can accelerate for the home run once to the second level. If the Jets don’t want to lean on their young QBs too soon, then they can just feed the ball to this guy.

Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the second half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

6. Jacksonville Jaguars (via CAR)

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

One spot that could use more help is defensive tackle. Malik Jackson has not lived up to the massive contract the team gave him. Malik McDowell could help with that problem. Michigan State has struggled mightily this year but they’re still a program with intriguing talents. McDowell stands above the rest. A rare athletic specimen. At 6’6″, 290 lbs he has great dimensions coupled with the quickness and agility men that size should not have. He could become that dangerous interior pass rush their edge rushers can feed off of.

Nov 5, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) runs a route during the second quarter against the Syracuse Orange at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

7. Tennessee Titans (via LA from CIN)

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Bringing one in could mean the final piece to their puzzle. It took some time thanks to an injury prior to the season, but Clemson receiver Mike Williams is emerging as the best in the class. Most expected him to. He’s the total package with a 6’3″ frame, good speed, agility, strong hands, and a knack for handling tight coverage to still make big plays. This is the guy Mariota will look for when he absolutely needs a 1st down or a big play.

Nov 5, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) looks to pass the ball in the second quarter against the Navy Midshipmen at Everbank Field. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

8. San Diego Chargers

DeShone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

Not too long ago Deshone Kizer was considered the top quarterback prospect. The reasons were obvious enough: big, strong, mobile, intelligent and an accurate arm that could push the ball down the field. Unfortunately the struggles of his team coupled with questionable coaching have hurt his stock. It’s clear he needs some work, but Kizer may have the most upside by a wide margin. It’s a worthwhile risk to take for a team in transition.

Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

9. Cincinnati Bengals

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

So the Bengals look to get somebody at end who can take full advantage of Atkins’ presence in the middle. Derek Barnett doesn’t have the same athletic flash as Garrett does, but his consistent ability to beat blockers is just as impressive. Barnett has never had fewer than nine sacks in a season during his college career. He’s a sturdy, dependable and relentless rusher who just knows how to get into the backfield and attack the quarterback.

Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) carries the football against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa beat Michigan 14 to 13. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

To see Jabrill Peppers still on the board must be a shock for Tampa Bay. He is easily one of, if not the top athlete in the entire draft. His upside is astronomical. He can play a multitude of positions but it’s felt safety is where his skill set fits best. So why did he fall to #10? He’s not entirely proven at that position yet. Peppers is an excellent tackler and brings blitzing ability. The problem is he hasn’t learn how to excel in coverage yet. It will be on the coaches to help him learn.

Nov 5, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Danny Etling (16) is hit by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) as he slides during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

11. Indianapolis Colts

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Reuben Foster may not get the big attention in that Alabama defense, but there is no doubting his importance to it. He is their principle man in the middle, reading the action at the line of scrimmage and constantly making plays. Foster fills gaps to stop the run, tackles very well, can blitz to apply pressure and has enough athleticism to make teams think carefully about picking on him in coverage. He’s the kind of lynch pin that Colts defense can build around.

Oct 29, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) against the Georgia Bulldogs during the second half at EverBank Field. Florida Gators defeated the Georgia Bulldogs 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

12. Green Bay Packers

Quincy Wilson

CB, Florida

Ted Thompson has never had any problem investing in cornerbacks, and this draft is a great opportunity for that. Quincy Wilson is part of the best corner tandem in college football at Florida. He doesn’t get the same hype as his teammate, but scouts are beginning to notice that he may be the more talented of the two. Not only tall with a well-defined frame, he’s a tremendous athlete with speed who can lock down receivers one-on-one.

Nov 12, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) works out prior to the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

13. Buffalo Bills

Teez Tabor

CB, Florida

To get a legitimate talent like Teez Tabor at #13 is rare. In most years he’d be a top 10 lock but circumstances have made it possible for the Bills to grab him. Tabor could be even more talented than former teammate Vernon Hargreaves. He’s taller and a more fluid athlete in coverage. His ball skills are very good and he doesn’t give a lot of room to receivers. People will try to nitpick certain parts of his game but under Ryan those can be swept away.

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) celebrates his sack of Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Trevor Knight (8) during the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

14. New Orleans Saints

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

Tim Williams has seen his stock go through some wild swings of late but the fact remains he is one of the top edge rushers in the class. Absolutely at his best when he’s allowed to pin his ears back and go. Tackles have nightmares trying to block him because he’s quick and able to bend the edge. Before they’re able to recover in time he has the closing speed to get the quarterback on the ground. He has some consistency issues in his fundamentals, but once those are ironed out he’ll be great.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; USC 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

15. Pittsburgh Steelers

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

Cam Robinson has his share of detractors. Some believe he has way too many off the field red flags. Others are skeptical of his overall athleticism and feel he’d be a much better guard in the NFL. The reality is he’s a very good tackle. Like any Alabama blocker he’s tremendous in the running game, able to open up lanes for his backs. In pass protection he may not be a glorious sight but he’s solid and dependable with good size and movement skills.

Nov 5, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) drops back to pass against the Kansas State Wildcats at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. The Cowboys won 43-37. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports

16. Arizona Cardinals

Mason Rudolph

QB, Oklahoma State

Most have him pegged for being a 2nd or 3rd round choice. However, when examining his skill set it makes perfect sense the Cardinals would pick him. Rudolph is a big quarterback who is at his best in a vertical offense. He loves to go down the field. Not only does his have the strong arm to do so but he’s repeatedly shown to have the accuracy as well. Bruce Arians is a coach who constantly looks to take his shots down the field. Rudolph is a uniquely ideal fit for that system.

Oct 15, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) celebrates after picking up a fumble during the third quarter of a game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

17. Tennessee Titans

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Jamal Adams may not have the dynamic athleticism of Hooker or Peppers, but he’s not a bad athlete. He’s more of a throwback safety. Using his big bodies, explosive acceleration and toughness he is a hunter around the line of scrimmage. Ball carriers and receivers always look for him before the snap because he can deliver some wicked shots. He’s rarely out of position and uses his excellent instinct to sniff out plays before they happen.

Nov 5, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) carries up the field against LSU Tigers defensive back Dwayne Thomas (13) during the first quarter at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

18. Miami Dolphins

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

Gase loves using the tight end so don’t expect him to ignore it during the draft. O.J. Howard is exactly the type of weapon he’d love to get in that offense. Howard is another of these en vogue basketball type athletes. He’s not only big but able to move remarkably well. He has the size to box out defenders and the speed to torch them down the field if they’re not careful. He has a strong pair of hands and can be deadly if complimented by a ground game.

Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Gareon Conley (8) during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Ohio State won 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

19. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Gareon Conley

CB, Ohio State

His name still isn’t in the public eye very much, but top scouts insist Gareon Conley will be one of the first corners off the board in April. They’re right. The Ohio State standout has all the tool. He’s got the bigger body with good athleticism and speed. He plays a physical brand of football both in coverage and as a tackler. Nothing about his game can be considered a weakness. The more experience he gains, the better he’s played.

Oct 15, 2016; Akron, OH, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) tosses the ball after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Akron Zips at InfoCision Stadium. Western Michigan Broncos won 41-0. Mandatory Credit: Jason Mowry-USA TODAY Sports

20. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Corey Davis

WR, Western Michigan

Sometimes in the draft teams will focus on the fastest players, especially wide receivers. However, in the NFL it’s not always the speed but the quickness and sudden movement skills that are deadly. Top route runners are often major targets. Corey Davis is a perfect example. He’s not a burner but he runs crisp routes and features a 6’3″ frame that is easy to hit. He’s helped turn Western Michigan into a relevant program by being just a consistent nightmare for defensive backs.

Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

21. Oakland Raiders

Raiders get #21 pick

Redskins get #24 pick and 4th in 201721

Zach Cunningham

ILB, Vanderbilt

That is why they trade up to grab Zach Cunningham. The Vanderbilt linebacker has emerged as one of the best playmakers in college football. He’s a tackling machine who showcases outstanding instinct for the position. Sometimes he knows what the offense is going to do before they even snap the ball and can blow the play up before it gets started. Oakland doesn’t have anybody like that. Cunningham plays hard and fast. Just what they need.

Oct 29, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Northwestern Wildcats fullback Garrett Dickerson (9) is tackled by Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

22. New York Giants

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

Finding somebody who can start making big plays is big on their agenda. Often the best way to accomplish this is by looking to one of the top college programs for help. Ohio State produces NFL talent at a regular clip each year. Raekwon McMillan is their latest finished product at inside linebacker. Per usual he’s a good tackler who can get heat as a blitzer. What stands out is his comfort in space and ability to drop into coverage. Not flashy. Just rock solid.

Sep 24, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Wisconsin offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) blocks Michigan State defensive end Evan Jones (85) during the second quarter of their game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY Sports

23. Denver Broncos

Ryan Ramczyk

OT, Wisconsin

One of the fast-rising names on draft boards of late is Wisconsin’s Ryan Ramczyk. He quite literally came out of nowhere. A transfer from Division II, he quickly became the left tackle for the Badgers and is showing himself to be arguably the best pure pass protector at that position in this class. He’s a fluid athlete with great movement skills and doesn’t make a lot of fundamental errors. Quarterbacks almost never have looked over their shoulder with him on their blind side.

Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Brantley (57) against the Missouri Tigers during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

24. Washington Redskins (via OAK)

Caleb Brantley

DT, Florida

Caleb Brantley would be a good fit for their system. The job of a 3-4 defensive end first and foremost is stopping the run. His combination of strength and explosion have made him a superior run stopper for the Gators. It also opens the door for the Redskins to turn him into a possible pass rush threat if he can learn to put that explosive acceleration to better use. It will be a bit challenging given his stockier frame but the ability is there.

Nov 5, 2016; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Jake Bentley (4) tries to outrun Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) during the second half at Williams-Brice Stadium. South Carolina wins 31-21 over Missouri. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

25. Baltimore Ravens

Charles Harris

OLB, Missouri

Charles Harris is one of those pass rushers who will get overlooked because he doesn’t have the ideal size or athleticism that makes people go, “Wow.” The thing is though he’s quite good at doing his job, which is sacking the quarterback. That is what the NFL is about. Not being an athlete but being good at football. Harris is a high motor player with quickness and violent hands. He gives blockers fits and is difficult to stop when in a rhythm.

Oct 22, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) in action against the Oregon State Beavers during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Washington won 41-17. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

26. Detroit Lions

Sidney Jones

CB, Washington

Their recent loss was unfortunate but doesn’t erase the fact that Washington has some high quality prospects worth checking out. Sidney Jones sits atop that list. The young corner doesn’t quite have the same ball skills as former Huskies alum Marcus Peters, but he’s got the same mix of size, speed and athleticism. He sticks with receivers down the field and does a solid job of trying to play the football in the air. He will make a good compliment to Darius Slay.

Nov 12, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

27. San Francisco 49ers (via ATL)

49ers get #27 pick

Falcons get #34 pick and 3rd in 201727

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

Not that the San Francisco 49ers are complaining. They are quick to pounce on this opportunity, giving Chip Kelly a dual threat quarterback perfectly suited to play his up-tempo, spread offense. Watson can run and understands how to get the ball out fast. If he has a good ground game to take the pressure off him, he can light up the score board. This has a chance to be a match made in heaven, presuming the 49ers can actually get some decent blocking and receivers on the field.

Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Jake Rudock (15) throws a pass as he pressured by Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40) during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

28. Houston Texans

Jarrad Davis

ILB, Florida

Jarrad Davis would make for an excellent fit because he plays a style conducive to the 3-4 scheme. He’s a tremendous tackler and run defender, but also is especially good at blitzing to create pressure. The speed and range he shows also makes him less of a liability in coverage. All told he’s just around the football a lot. His pedigree at a proven program makes this pick less risky too. Houston can put him right to work.

Sep 17, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) dives for but cannot make an interception past Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver A.D. Miller (13) during the second half at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

29. Seattle Seahawks

Marshon Lattimore

CB, Ohio State

His teammate Conley may have gone sooner but Marshon Lattimore is not to be swept aside as being the “other” guy at Ohio State. He’s a solid player in his own right. Lattimore does his job in regards to tackling and clearly understands the key duty of playing coverage. Not only does he match up with receivers of all types, he’s quite adept at finding and making plays on the football. This is what the Seahawks want from their players.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) celebrates the win over the Tennessee Volunteers during the second overtime at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeated the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

30. Kansas City Chiefs

Justin Evans

S, Texas A&M

Texas A&M has a pair of highly skilled safeties but it’s Justin Evan that will catch the attention of scouts first. He’s got the coveted mixture of size and athleticism teams pine for. He plays around the line of scrimmage well and has shown an ability to be a ball hawk. That is the type of player defenses love having on the back end. No matter the situation, they can play in it. Evan may not get the hype of others, but that doesn’t mean he can’t play.

Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

31. New England Patriots

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Notre Dame

It’s not clear yet whether Mike McGlinchey will return to college or not but if he comes out, he’ll likely be one of the first tackles off the board. Notre Dame is known these days for producing well-coached, smart and tough offensive linemen. McGlinchey is no different. He can play a variety of positions up front including both tackles spots. That versatility is what New England always looks for in its players.

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end DeMarcus Walker (44) rushes against the Mississippi Rebels during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Florida State Seminoles defeated the Mississippi Rebels 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

32. Dallas Cowboys

Demarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

Randy Gregory already looks like a bust and Demarcus Lawrence is good but not a stud. They need another body. Ironically it’s another Demarcus (seriously, they’ve cornered the market on these guys). Demarcus Walker has been the definitive presence on defense for Florida State whenever they’ve been able to pull off some wins. His motor is always running and he plays with a major chip on his shoulder. A real tone-setter.