Los Angeles Rams

2017 NFL Mock Draft: QB Rush Sparks Bold Trades

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

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Oct 22, 2016; Charlottesville, VA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws the ball as Virginia Cavaliers defensive tackle Donte Wilkins (1) chases in the first quarter at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

The pack has begun to sort itself out regarding the 2017 NFL mock draft, with the clear top 10 teams coming to the forefront.

As with most drafts things begin and end at the quarterback position. It’s almost always a guarantee that a heavy majority of the teams picking that high need a franchise passer. The 2017 class is high on talent but people aren’t sure if there are any slam dunk prospects. Will the fervent demands of the position make that irrelevant? Let’s find out.

1. Cleveland Browns

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

North Carolina standout Mitch Trubisky is the rising star of the 2017 class. He really has come out of nowhere. It’s his first year starting for the Tar Heels and already he’s delivered some very impressive performances against top competition. Physically the tools are there. He has a big enough body with good mobility to extend plays. His throws reflect a strong arm that can push the ball down the field but also deliver strikes with plenty of touch. Hue Jackson can easily build an offense around him.

Oct 15, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws as Stanford Cardinal linebacker Bobby Okereke (20) pressures in the first quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

2. San Francisco 49ers

Deshone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

Getting Deshone Kizer at #2 would qualify as a pretty solid addition. The Notre Dame quarterback has gone through a rough patch of late, but not all of that is his fault. He’s shown that when he’s reasonably protected his can shred defenses with his dual-threat capability. Kizer looks like an NFL passer, able to fire strikes 50-60 yards down the field. On top of that he turns into a true runner when he decides to tuck the ball. All he has to do is learn to maintain his focus under pressure, something that should come with time.

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

3. Chicago Bears

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

Myles Garrett is not just the best edge rusher in this draft class. Most believe he’s the best player overall. A once-in-a-generation caliber talent. Indeed the young man has so many gifts. He has the size of a classic 4-3 defensive end and the power to go with it. Yet his athleticism and quickness jump off the screen. Not a single person would doubt he could easily make the switch to 3-4 outside linebacker. Just imagine what Vic Fangio could do with him and Floyd on the edges.

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) hits Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Trevor Knight (8) during the first quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

4. Carolina Panthers

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

So as solutions go, their timeliness is impeccable. Jonathan Allen is one of the most consistent, dependable edge rushers in this draft class. He may not have the flash of Garrett but he is no less difficult to stop. His mixture of size, power, quickness and a hot motor make life difficult beyond words for blockers. A man his size should not be able to move that well. Allen can bring a rush from the inside or outside. A true mauler who can win a variety of different ways.

Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

5. New York Jets

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

This time it’s Deshaun Watson that hears his name called. Some people have quieted on him due to his being slightly undersized and somewhat erratic at times with the football. In truth though Watson has plenty going for him. He’s highly athletic, smart, super competitive and has enough arm strength to open up a playoff to its fullest. Above all he’s a winner. So far he’s lost just one game since the end of 2014 and in that one game he had the best performance of his career. A true gamer.

Sep 24, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) is seen during the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

6. Baltimore Ravens (via NYJ)

Ravens get #6 pick and 6th round pick

Jaguars get #8 pick and 3rd round pick6

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

One thing Ozzie Newsome would love to get back is another Reed type of safety. A freak athlete who can lay major hits down in the box but has the range and ball skills to be a nightmare in coverage. Many believe that is the future awaiting Michigan standout Jabrill Peppers. He has many of the same traits as Reed did, though he’s much more raw in terms of his complete mastery of a position. Peppers is a dynamic talent. He just requires time to settle into whatever position the Ravens want him at.

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

7. New Orleans Saints

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

Finding somebody who can play across from Jordan is paramount. With so much focus on Garrett and Allen in this draft, people are overlooking Tennessee standout Derek Barnett. He has shown a consistent knack for getting after the quarterback the past couple years. The fact he’s doing it in the SEC without much help around him makes it all the more impressive. He’s got size and length, a solid arsenal of moves, good bend around the edge and a high motor. Everything a rusher needs.

Oct 22, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs past Mississippi Rebels linebacker DeMarquis Gates (3) during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Mississippi 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (via BAL)

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

With respect they haven’t gotten that from T.J. Yeldon and Chris Ivory. Maybe the blocking up front isn’t perfect but they still should be able to get something going. Instead it’s been almost a continuous stretch of very little. That would change the moment Leonard Fournette arrived. He is a true three-down workhorse type of back. The kind who gets stronger as a game goes on. He’s got elite size, power and vision. Defenses will inevitably have to load the box to stop him. Imagine what that will do for Bortles.

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

9. Indianapolis Colts

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

Opinions still vary wildly on Cam Robinson. While he remains the top offensive tackle on most boards, people just aren’t sure where he fits. He’s got the physical talent of a top 10 guy but his fundamentals are flawed to some degree and he also has some off-the-field concerns. So why would the Colts take him so high? For the simple fact that he’s the best in the class and the drop off after him is fairly steep. Robinson is a powerful run blocker who can get better in pass protection with more time.

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

10. Tennessee Titans

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

The buzz around Ohio State safety Malik Hooker is beginning to take off. His play is that of a complete safety. He has plenty of size, tough and tackling prowess. So he can play in the box. Then he adds an extra gear to this speed thus making him a danger in coverage on top of it. There is really no way for offenses to avoid dealing with him. If they don’t respect his ability, more often than not he makes them pay for it. The Titans will love the security blanket he provides.

Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Missouri Tigers 40-14. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

11. Miami Dolphins

Quincy Wilson

CB, Florida

Regardless, Quincy Wilson will prove to be worth the pick. Only recently have scouts begun to appreciate how good the Florida corner actually is. He’s one of those lanky, athletic types who have the length to match size but also the quick feet and speed to hang with the shiftier receivers. He knows how to play outside and in the slot as well. That versatility coupled with solid ball skills will make him highly attractive to any defensive coordinator.

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

12. Tennessee Titans (via LA)

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

Florida always delivers when it comes to good CBs and 2017 may be the best yet. Wilson may have gone first but Jalen Tabor is consider every bit as good. He’s a fluid athlete with smooth transitional skills. The speed is there in order for him to career a receiver deep and there is no shortage of physicality in his game. He’ll have to improve his ball skills somewhat but that’s a nitpick issue. This young man should be polished and ready to play come next year.

Oct 15, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first half against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

13. Cincinnati Bengals

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Besides they have every right to take the best wide receiver in the class if he’s still available. Mike Williams took some time to return from his scary next injury last year but he’s round back into his All-American form at Clemson. He features those traits top receivers have: size, good hands, leaping ability, solid deep speed and a knack for getting himself open. Defenses have concentrated on him in college, so just imagine how much more dangerous he might become with Green drawing all the attention.

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. San Diego Chargers

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Thankfully this draft class looks to be rich at the position. Otherwise there is no way Jamal Adams falls out of the top 10. The LSU product is a true two-way player. He is a big, ferocious hitter with a knack for sniffing out screen passes and misdirections. Ball carriers learn to locate where he is before the snap, otherwise they pay for it. Adams is also plenty capable in coverage. A good athlete with range to make a play on the ball while in the air. Teams try not to test him too often.

Sep 24, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) talks to teammate during the second half of a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

Malik McDowell has lost steam on his draft stock of late. Most of that isn’t even due to his ability or play. Michigan State is having a terrible season and he’s paying the price for it. That should dampen things too much though. He’s still a big athlete with lots of length and quickness. Teams will be impressed by his ability to move and split gaps to break into the backfield. If he can add some weight to his frame that will be make him even more of a problem for interior blockers.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) reacts to a pass interference called against him during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

16. New York Giants (via ARI)

Giants get #16 pick

Cardinals get #20 pick, 4th in 2017 and 4th in 201816

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Reuben Foster is steadily emerging as one of the best option in the draft. Not surprising since he comes from Alabama, a program notorious for producing quality linebackers. Scouts are falling in love with his game. He’s a downhill, attacking player who covers the run extremely well and knows how to deliver some nasty hits. At the same time he good in space and shows enough range to drop back in coverage. There aren’t a lot of holes in his skill set. That would be a change for this Giants defense.

Oct 15, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) is tripped up during a run in the game against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

17. Buffalo Bills

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

Odds are Dalvin Cook should’ve been taken earlier in the round but teams needs changed that. Good news for the Bills because the Florida State running back is no joke. He might be the best receiving threat in the class. A tantalizing mix of speed, quickness and vision who just knows where the openings will be. That of course implies he doesn’t know how to stick it between the tackles for tough yards, which is not true. Cook can take the hits like any true workhorse.

Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA;Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) works out prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

18. Detroit Lions

Charles Harris

DE, Missouri

Missouri is typically a hot bed for pass rushers. Ask Aldon Smith and Markus Golden. It’s looking like Charles Harris may be the newest member of that assembly line. He looks like the classic defensive end who has a variety of different ways to attack from the same spot and always seems to get into the backfield. Harris isn’t overly explosive but he’s aggressive and has some pretty nasty moves that have left blockers stunned. Fitting in across from Ansah wouldn’t be a huge issue.

Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Carlos Watkins (94) reacts after the play during the first quarter against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

19. Washington Redskins

Carlos Watkins

DL, Clemson

Many were skeptical whether Clemson nose tackle Carlos Watkins would be able to elevate his game going into 2016. He’s responded in kind to those doubts with an outstanding season thus far. In addition to being one of their key run defenders, he’s also produced 4.5 sacks. The guy has size, toughness and effort going for him. Now the quickness and sneaky athleticism are showing up too. Washington could really use somebody like him up front who can move around in order to create mismatches.

Oct 22, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) before a game against the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

20. Arizona Cardinals (via NYG)

Chad Kelly

QB, Ole Miss

What many will be shocked by is who the Cardinals decide to go after. In the eyes of experts Chad Kelly is way too big of a risk for the 1st round. There is no denying his tremendous arm talent. He’s a fiery competitor and a good athlete on top of it. The problem is he makes a number of bad decisions both on and off the field that make him unreliable. Then again, Arians has never feared taking chances on players with perceived personality issues. Why would he stop at the quarterback position?

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

21. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Gareon Conley

CB, Ohio State

Gareon Conley is one of a standout pair of Ohio State cornerbacks that make up their strong defense. At 6’1″ he has the coveted size teams look for, tackles well and plays the ball in the air with good awareness. He’s an athlete, so receivers wont’ escape him with ease. His play has steadily improved as the season goes on. He has a couple interceptions and gets his hands on the football at least once every game. Once he learns to anticipate at top speed, he’ll be hard to throw at.

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

22. Kansas City Chiefs

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

Grabbing somebody in the 1st round would be the logical solution. Raekwon McMillan might be the best pure inside linebacker in the 2017 class. Like most Ohio State products under Urban Meyer he’s a good athlete with size. His biggest strength is playing downhill and stopping the run, which is top priority in a 3-4 defense. Coverage-wise he still needs improvement but the speed and ability move well in space are there. Give him a chance to learn under Johnson.

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end DeMarcus Walker (44) reacts after a sack in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Camping World Stadium. Florida State Seminoles won 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

23. Dallas Cowboys (via HOU)

Cowboys get #23 pick

Texans get #29 pick, OG Ronald Leary and 4th in 201723

Demarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

That’s why they trade up in order to grab Demarcus Walker. He has emerged this 2016 season as a true hunter of quarterbacks. The defensive end just exudes that prowess for getting into the backfield and squeezing the pocket from the edges. He’s a strong, tough defender with a high motor that is always going whether it’s defense or special teams. He’s a great fit for a 4-3 scheme and the type of high-energy guy that Marinelli often turns into a major success.

Oct 8, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) breaks up a pass intended for Oregon Ducks wide receiver Jalen Brown (15) during the third quarter at Autzen Stadium. The Huskies won 70-21. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

24. Atlanta Falcons

Sidney Jones

CB, Washington

It’s rather amazing Washington hasn’t gotten more love in this draft thus far considering they’re one of the best teams in college football. Sidney Jones deserves more respect, especially since he comes from the same program that produced Marcus Peters. Jones is another such type. He’s a good-size corner with plenty of athleticism to match up one-on-one with any receiver. Teams have learned not to test him too often because he has a tendency to make them pay for it.

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) in the third quarter of their game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Yellow Jackets won 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

25. Oakland Raiders

Zach Cunningham

LB, Vanderbilt

One position that continues to kill them in key situations is middle linebacker. Thus far their attempts to fill it haven’t worked out. Injuries and lack of talent being the biggest reasons. The time has come for an upgrade. Zach Cunningham is getting loads of attention from scouts. The fact he’s pulling this off while playing at Vanderbilt is a surefire sign the kid has some game. He’s got size, instincts, and range. Opponents rarely get him out of position and he plays with lots of fire.

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

26. Pittsburgh Steelers

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

Thankfully the 2017 class has some top quality options. Nabbing Tim Williams from Alabama would be quite the coups for them. He’s got the classic linebacker body. A bit undersized for defensive line, he’s got the speed, acceleration and athleticism made for outside linebacker. When he has a big defensive front to protect him, he can be a nightmare for tackles on the edge. A violent rusher who can finish with aggression. Perhaps a liability in the run game, but perfectly suited for what the Steelers need.

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Texas A&M Aggies during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

27. Denver Broncos

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

O.J. Howard announced himself to the world last season when he ripped up Clemson for over 200 yards in the national title game. He showed that basketball player style, a big man who runs way too fast and way too well for his size. Defenses have a very hard time matching up with him. His threat alone has enabled Alabama to exploited matchups elsewhere. It precisely for those reasons that the Broncos want him on their roster. He helps even when he’s not getting the football.

Oct 1, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive lineman Adam Bisnowaty (69) blocks at the line of scrimmage against Marshall Thundering Herd safety C.J. Reavis (1) during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 43-27. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

28. Seattle Seahawks

Adam Bisnowaty

OT, Pitt

He doesn’t get a ton of press because he plays at Pitt but left tackle Adam Bisnowaty is no joke. He’s a big, mobile pass protector who is comfortable in space and moves with good fluidity. He’s also not shy about getting down and dirty in the run game. The Panthers have one of the best offenses in college football and he’s a major reason why. In a tackle class that is lacking big names, it’s the perfect window for somebody underappreciated to rise up the board. Seattle will love this guy.

Oct 15, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) attempts a pass against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The North Carolina Tar Heels defeat the Miami Hurricanes 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

29. Houston Texans (via DAL)

Brad Kaaya

QB, Miami Fl.

One thing that has become clear about Miami QB Brad Kaaya is he’s one tough competitor. He’ll take the beatings and wants to win. Don’t be fooled by his non-emotional exterior. He hates losing. Scouts are intrigued with him for several reasons. He fits the height-weight ratios, understands throwing from within the pocket and does not lack for arm strength. On top of that he exhibits a good deal of accuracy and touch on the ball. Improvements are needed to his fundamentals and decision-making, but all are correctable.

October 8, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) during the first quarter against the Washington State Cougars at Stanford Stadium. Washington State defeated Stanford 42-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

30. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

They’ve made due with a backfield by committee but they’re still just 17th in rushing this season. If protecting Wentz is the goal, that stat has to get better. Finding a workhorse running back would be a huge step, especially one with the versatility of Christian McCaffrey. He’s got the size and power of a traditional back but has the hands and speed to catch passes too. Not surprising since his father was a two-time champion NFL receiver. This is a guy Philly can feed continuously.

Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) runs for a touchdown in the first half against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

31. Green Bay Packers

Jake Butt

TE, Michigan

Jake Butt can help an offense in several ways. During the early part of his college career he became a steady, dependable blocker for the Wolverines. Over the past year though he’s blossomed into a legitimate pass target. Not a surprise given how much Jim Harbaugh loves than position. Butt is tall, athletic and can make tough catches regardless of the coverage. A player who never has to come off the field regardless of play call. He’ll open up the middle of the field for Rodgers.

Nov 21, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Idaho Vandals quarterback Matt Linehan (10) runs the ball while defended by Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

32. New England Patriots

Carl Lawson

DE, Auburn

Teams will shy away from Carl Lawson namely because he’s slightly undersized and has an injury history. The thing is when he’s allowed to rush the passer, he’s really good at it. He runs with a red hot motor and enjoys playing physical. Stopping the run is something he can do too. Best of all it seems like the better opponent he plays against, the better he plays. A true gamer who relishes the competition. One can just imagine the uses Belichick could get out of him.