New York Giants

2017 NFL Mock Draft: Pass Rushers Fly Off Early and Often

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

As the season goes on, the ability to predict the top end of the 2017 NFL mock draft should get easier. Instead it’s gotten more difficult.

There is no question as to the teams that will likely be fighting for the top 10 picks but it’s the players they’ll be fighting for. One week it seems like a big name is destined for going early and the next another has knocked them down the ladder. No position is sure to mess everything up more than the quarterbacks who could end up hatching some surprises.

1. Cleveland Browns

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

Experts aren’t yet sure about Mitch Trubisky if only because he’s so new. The North Carolina standout is in his first year starting. Yet the proof is on the field. He’s a gamer who can make the tough throws, stays poised in pressure situations and brings athleticism to the position. His accuracy and ball placement are top caliber. It comes down to whether he can be a leader of men. Cleveland can’t know that for sure until they draft him.

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

Myles Garrett is the chief of them all. The Texas A&M standout has everything. All the tool. He’s explosive off the snap, strong, big enough to handle large tackles but also fast enough to beat blockers to the edge. He can rush from a variety of different angles and positions and just shows an awareness for how to harass the quarterbacks. There are some minor injury concerns but when he’s on his game, it’s almost impossible to stop him.

Nov 12, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Nick Fitzgerald (7) gets away from Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

Jonathan Allen isn’t flashy. He’s just good. Very good. There are many top tier defenders on that Alabama defense but he’s the best of the bunch. A defensive end who mixes size and power with sneaky quickness and explosion. He’s stout against the run and often forces offenses to double team him, freeing up teammates to get single blocked and sacked. He can play on the edge or in the middle. On top of that he’d bring an expectation of winning with him.

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

4. Chicago Bears

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

What makes Derek Barnett such an intriguing selection is his proven production. He has not had fewer than nine sacks in any of his years at Tennessee. He’s also now tied for the most in school history. The man he’s pulled even with? Reggie White. That’s pretty good company to keep for any pass rusher. Barnett is big, strong, and runs with a non-stop motor. He’s got the quickness off the snap and can bend the edge without losing speed.

Oct 29, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) and teammates run out of the tunnel before the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

5. New York Jets

Quincy Wilson

CB, Florida

This draft class is quite rich at that position but it’s difficult to figure out who the best one is. Agreements are hard to come by. In the end Quincy Wilson is the pick. There are plenty of reasons why. He’s a great athlete with fluid agility, speed, length and size. He can follow a top receiver anywhere on the field and doesn’t get beat very often. He’s also got ball skills and solid instinct for being in the right position at the right time. Todd Bowles will find plenty of uses for him.

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

6. Cincinnati Bengals

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

Malik McDowell is almost certain to declare for 2017 after a rough year for a bad Michigan State team. Scouts love his combination of size, length and quickness. He’s one of those rare talents that can move inside or outside depending on situation. He can shoot gaps to create pressure in the backfield and has enough strength to handle the run. Put him next to Atkins either in the middle or on the edge and that’s a combination that could do damage.

Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Keon Hatcher (4) catches a pass for a touchdown as Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) defends during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

7. Tennessee Titans (via LA)

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

Alabama is much the same way and they’ve gotten that from Marlon Humphrey. Though he’s only a sophomore he’s already been playing like a seasoned veteran. He’s got the size to match up with any receiver and shows that ability be sticky in coverage, not giving much room to make catches. Some have voiced concerns about him being stiff at times but the tape speaks for itself. Kept in the right situations he is not a wise choice to attack.

Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) looks over to the sidelines during the third quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

8. Carolina Panthers

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

Carolina loves to run the football and Jonathan Stewart is getting up there in age. Finding the next generation of “Keep Pounding” style can’t hurt, especially given the importance of protecting Cam Newton. Leonard Fournette is undoubtedly one of the most talented runners to come out of college in a long time. He’s big, physical, strong and way too fast somebody that size should be. He can wear defenses out but is fast enough to hit the home run if given lanes.

Nov 26, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a pass for a touchdown while being defended by South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Jamarcus King (7) during the first quarter at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

9. Arizona Cardinals

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Mike Williams had a slow start to 2016 but he has finished on fire for Clemson. His numbers are piling up, as are the highlights. This 6’3″ receiver is the total package. Enough bulk to win 50/50 battles, enough speed to stretch defenses deep, solid route running skills and a pair of soft hands. Any time his team has needed a big play, he’s always the one they look for. Imagine how good he might end up being if he has a chance to learn from Fitzgerald.

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

10. Green Bay Packers

Teez Tabor

CB, Florida

The quickest solution to such problems is getting another body at cornerback who knows how to cover. This 2017 class is loaded at the position. Teez Tabor is the “other” Florida product who is every bit as good as his teammate, Wilson. He’s athletic, fluid, physical and shows a ballhawk mentality when teams dare to throw in his direction. There are some fundamental things to clean up but he could really help settle down some of the problems on the back end in Green Bay.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) blocks USC Trojans linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (42) during the game at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

11. Indianapolis Colts

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

Cam Robinson is creating plenty of debate in scouting circles. Many see him as the best tackle in the class, a beefy blocker who can open running lanes but still has enough length and fluid footwork to hold up in pass protection. The big stumbling blocks are his off-the-field concerns. He’s had law trouble and also is surrounded by rumors of being a bit of a head case. Good news? None of those problems have surfaced for months.

Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) before the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

12. San Diego Chargers

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

Jabrill Peppers is arguably the most exciting prospect in the entire draft class. He’s a world class athlete who can do almost anything on the football field. He’s logged time at safety, running back, linebacker, wide receiver and punt returner just to name a few. A creative coaching staff can take advantage of this. Mostly though he’ll fill the safety void and give them serious chops around the line of scrimmage both tackling and blitzing.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws a pass against the Southern California Trojans during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

13. New Orleans Saints

Deshone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

There is speculation he might choose to return to Notre Dame but given how little head coach Brian Kelly has helped his development, that seems like a misguided idea. Kizer has put up decent numbers despite playing in a vanilla scheme with limited weapons and protection around him. It really hasn’t been a fair assessment of what he can do. Give him what the Saints have built for Brees over the years? Of course they’d be willing to take the plunge.

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

14. Tennessee Titans

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Jamal Adams doesn’t get the same hype as Peppers up in Ann Arbor, but he might be the better overall safety. He’s not quite the same athlete but he makes up for that and then some with his nasty disposition and his impressive instinct. He has a sense for the moment, being able to read where the ball is going before the play develops. He’ll deliver fierce hits to ball carrier and has enough speed to hang with receivers deep.

Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Gareon Conley (8) gets the crowd into the game during the second quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

15. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Gareon Conley

CB, Ohio State

Many prominent scouts continue to insist that Ohio State junior Gareon Conley is being overlooked in draft circles. He’s been a steady, dependable member of a great Buckeyes defense in 2016. His production both as a tackler and cover man are good. He’s got size, athleticism and speed to face any type of receiver. There is no reason to think he couldn’t play immediately and hold up his end.

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

16. Buffalo Bills

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Notre Dame

Mike McGlinchey is a bit of a mystery in the draft community. People aren’t sure about him. In any regard. They don’t know if he’ll return to school. They don’t know if he’ll play tackle or guard or center. His evaluations are all over the place. In truth he has the size, strength and athletic combinations to be a tackle. His intelligence and solid fundamentals should make him a reliable blocker on the right side.

Nov 5, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) sacks Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Kyle Shurmur (14) during the fourth quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Auburn won 23-16. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

17. Baltimore Ravens

Carl Lawson

DE, Auburn

The one argument experts will have against Carl Lawson is that he has some injury concerns. He’s dealt with his fair share at Auburn. That being said when the young edge rusher is healthy it’s not wise to ignore where he is before the snap. Lawson is explosive coming off the edge and has those traits of a classic 3-4 outside linebacker. He can bend the edge or cut back inside and just has a sense of how to beat blockers. The quickness and sneaky power are there.

Nov 26, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball past Florida Gators defenders during the second half of the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

18. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

Dalvin Cook though will be the one that draws the most attention for Philadelphia. He’s a multidimensional threat who can run between the tackles, break it out wide or catch screen passes with equal ease. One thing that is stands above the rest is he’s a big play threat every time he touches the ball. His vision, agility, speed and quickness make it difficult for defenders to get a bead on him before it’s too late.

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

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Corey Davis

WR, Western Michigan

Corey Davis isn’t going to get the hype like others. That comes with the price of playing at Western Michigan. Even so many are taking notice of how productive he’s been. In fact a few daring experts compared him to Terrell Owens. That’s a lofty image, and it’s possibly a fit. Davis is no joke. At 6’3″ he boasts good size, sports a well-rounded frame, strength to hand tough coverage, speed to threaten deep and better-than-average route running skills.

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) reacts after sacking the Texas A&M Aggies quarterback at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

20. Pittsburgh Steelers

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

His stock has fluctuated a lot over the past couple months but it’s hard to deny Tim Williams is a good football player. He’s a dynamic pass rusher at Alabama who features the body type, bend, and explosion made for a 3-4 outside linebacker. He comes off the edge with some attitude and plays with fire. There are some off-the-field concerns that will need serious attention but if he checks out this young man would look great in black and gold.

Nov 26, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) pulls in a pass against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

21. Denver Broncos

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

The general consensus is that Alabama standout O.J. Howard is the best in the class. With good reason too. Not many tight ends can torch a defense in a national championship game for over 200 yards. That performance along with steady production since shows that Howard is a serious receiving threat that scares defenses with his combination of size, strength and speed. He’s a virtual mismatch no matter who is covering him.

Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) is tackled by Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) in the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

22. Detroit Lions

Marshon Lattimore

CB, Ohio State

The younger of the talented Ohio State duo. Marshon Lattimore features a similar skill set to his teammate Conley. He’s a good athlete, has size, plays physical and shows enough speed and fluidity to handle press coverage against almost any wide receiver. His fundamentals are a bit raw but he’s improved steadily. The ball skills and instinct are there. It’s a matter of smoothing out the rough edges.

Nov 19, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) grabs Chattanooga Mocs running back Alex Trotter (24) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

23. Houston Texans

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Reuben Foster is lower on the ladder of the key players named in that history-making Alabama defense. Yet he might be their most important. The inside linebacker has drawn comparisons to Patrick Willis. He’s a tough, instinctive and aggressive player who fills run gaps and makes tackles. His athleticism allows him to flow sideline to sideline to chase down ball carriers. He also has enough speed to function in coverage, allowing him to stay on the field.

Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Chris Wormley (43) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

24. Washington Redskins

Chris Wormley

DE, Michigan

Few names have risen faster on draft boards over the past month than Chris Wormley. The Michigan defensive tackle has really showcased his talents in some big games. He was a constant presence in that classic against Ohio State. Not only does he boast the size and length befitting a 3-4 defensive end, he also has the strength to hold the point of attack and quickness to rush up the field.

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

25. Kansas City Chiefs

Zach Cunningham

ILB, Vanderbilt

Zach Cunningham is fast becoming a favorite of draft fanatics. The Vanderbilt linebacker has built a strong reputation for playmaking skill. He’s got the size and strength to shed blockers and stop the run. He shows the range to chase down ball carriers sideline to sideline too. The guy just always seems to be around the football. To top it off he carries himself like a leader. His play seems to elevate those around him, just like Johnson.

Nov 26, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Demarcus Walker (44) chases down Florida Gators quarterback Austin Appleby (12) during the second half of the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

26. Atlanta Falcons

Demarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

Vic Beasley appears to be coming into his own. Now it’s time to get him a wing man to rush from the opposite side. In many ways Demarcus Walker is the perfect compliment. Where one is a about flash and explosion, this guy is about effort and strength. Walker plays with attitude and never gives up on a play, regardless of situation. His demeanor and work ethic are infectious, serving to help teammates play a little bit harder.

Nov 25, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Austin Allen (8) drops back to pass and is pressured by Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) during the first half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 28-24. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

27. Miami Dolphins

Charles Harris

DE, Missouri

Wake and Williams are the two oldest of the trio and the Dolphins have no edge rushers in the pipeline who can replace what they bring. Thankfully the upcoming class should be packed with options. Charles Harris is among the most notable. Missouri has produced some good defensive ends in the past. He brings good size and quickness to the position. His array of pass rush moves alone is impressive. He just understands how to get after the quarterback.

Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Ryan Anderson (22) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

28. New York Giants

Ryan Anderson

OLB, Alabama

Ryan Anderson is a name that will rise on their radar. The Alabama standout isn’t the pure pass rush specialist like teammate Tim Williams, but he might be the more versatile of the two. He’s a good athlete who can be moved around the field like a chess piece. He does excel at attacking the backfield but can also drop into coverage who chase ball carries to the sideline. Steve Spagnuolo will enjoy utilizing his skill set to the fullest.

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

29. Seattle Seahawks

Ryan Ramczyk

OT, Wisconsin

Losing Russell Okung is appearing to be a big one at left tackle. George Fant is an undrafted free agent rookie replacing him, a bad sign if ever there was one. Ryan Ramczyk would be a big answer to their prayers. The Wisconsin left tackle has had plenty of experience at the job. He’s big, tough, athletic and fluid in pass protection. Given the limited options in this class, somebody of his value and talent can’t be passed on.

Sep 17, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Chidobe Awuzie (4) rushes on Michigan Wolverines quarterback Wilton Speight (3) and causes a fumble in the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

30. Oakland Raiders

Chidobe Awuzie

CB, Colorado

Finding a capable cover corner would be a big help. Yes D.J. Hayden wasn’t what they hoped for but that’s no reason to get gun shy. Some may be surprised by the selection of Chidobe Awuzie, but they shouldn’t be. He’s one of the main reasons Colorado has had so much success in 2016. A true press corner who go man-to-man with anybody he faced. An athletic kid with good speed who plays a sticky style that makes it tough on receivers to find room.

Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Chris Evans (12) loose his helmet after he is tackled by Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Carroll Phillips (6) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

31. New England Patriots

Carroll Phillips

OLB, Illinois

Historically Bill Belichick wants players who can do more than one thing on the field. Versatility is a huge thing with the Patriots. Carroll Phillips is much the type of player they would like. He’s a hybrid type of edge player with enough size for defensive end but enough speed and athleticism for linebacker. Phillips can rush the pass well but is also good at getting into the backfield on run plays too. New England will be able to use his talents any number of way.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans defensive back Adoree Jackson (2) celebrates during a NCAA football game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

32. Dallas Cowboys

Adoree Jackson

CB, USC

Adoree Jackson would be a fine pickup for them, and for a number of reasons. He’s a tremendous athlete who plays a style of defense that would fit well in the Rod Marinelli scheme. He’s got good ball skills but is best when allowed to read the plays in front him and then reacting. On top of that he is probably one of the best returners in the 2017. This will give Dallas another potential special teams weapon.