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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Super Bowl aftermath and quarterback fits

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 4:19 p.m. ET

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Fansided, Sayre Bedinger/FanSided via NFL Mocks

For my first full 2017 NFL Mock Draft of the season, I’m predicting where the top quarterbacks will land and how the NFL will respond to the Patriots’ title…

Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady celebrates with owner Robert Kraft after defeating the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Another season gone by, another New England Patriots championship banner will eventually fly. The Patriots pulled off one of the most remarkable comebacks I have seen in the Super Bowl. The Atlanta Falcons were in such control, people left my Super Bowl party early.

The Patriots accomplished the seemingly impossible, starting the year off 3-1 without Tom Brady and then just sort of coasting into the top overall seed in the AFC. They showed resilience through some pretty major roster moves in the last calendar year, and proved once again that they are the model the NFL should follow when it comes to identifying talent and fitting a system around the talent you are given.

But not even the Patriots were perfect this season, and the NFL will be wide open again next season though Belichick’s crew will remain the favorites to win it all in Super Bowl LII. How will each team make necessary adjustments this offseason? What will happen in the 2017 NFL Draft?

Here’s my first 2017 NFL mock draft, now that the offseason is officially upon us…

Sep 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) celebrates his sack against Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) (not pictured)in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Myles Garrett

Edge Defender, Texas A&M

Garrett has the potential to be a force off the edge in the NFL, something the Browns desperately need. They acquired Jamie Collins in a pre-deadline trade with the New England Patriots, which was a really nice favor of the Pats to give him up for basically nothing. With Collins in the fold defensively, things are at least looking up with the addition here of Garrett, who can be a force along with Collins in getting after the quarterback.

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

DeShone Kizer

Quarterback, Notre Dame

The San Francisco 49ers are expected to hire Kyle Shanahan as their next head coach, and with GM John Lynch calling shots, the two are going to have to first and foremost come together on a plan at the quarterback position. There will almost certainly be a ‘bridge’ quarterback like Jay Cutler or even Matt Schaub’s name has been thrown around, but the 49ers have to have a plan for the future at QB and Kizer seems to be someone that many feel has the highest ceiling of the quarterbacks in this year’s draft. I may not personallly share that opinion, but I think this would be a decent pick for San Francisco getting their rebuild started. They have a ton of cap space to use in free agency, so attracting some big names will be crucial as well.Next: 3rd Pick

Dec 30, 2016; El Paso, TX, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws the ball against the Stanford Cardinal defense at Sun Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre-USA TODAY Sports

Mitch Trubisky

Quarterback, North Carolina

With Jay Cutler likely having played his last down with the Chicago Bears, what comes next at quarterback for this team? Mitch Trubisky had a meteoric rise this season as a junior at North Carolina, showing off NFL caliber skills and traits that have him being projected as a top five pick. While Trubisky may not currently be a top five prospect, the Bears really can’t afford to get cute at quarterback right now. They have a big decision to make, and the only way I see this pick not being a quarterback is if for some reason the Browns and 49ers pass on Myles Garrett, or the Bears trade for Jimmy Garoppolo. That is a scenario that also makes sense, because John Fox’s job may be on the line. The Bears pick high enough in the second round that New England would likely accept their selection for Jimmy, but there’s a lot that has to unfold before we get there.Next: 4th Pick

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) reacts during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Allen

Defensive Lineman, Alabama

As the Jaguars continue to ascend defensively, they get the opportunity to take arguably the best interior defender in the entire class here with the fourth overall pick. Allen was as disruptive against the run as he was against the Pass, and would be a phenomenal pickup to add to a defense that made huge strides this past year. One area the Jaguars needed to get better, though, was up front, and Allen solves that problem. He has the ability to be a Gerald McCoy type of impact player at the next level, and I see him being an instant success in the NFL, especially in a young and talented defense like this.Next: 5th Pick

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) tackles Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Marshon Lattimore

Cornerback, Ohio State

When you draw up what you want a cornerback to look like, Lattimore is pretty much it. At 6-1, 192 pounds, this is a guy that is as athletic as any defensive back coming out in the 2017 NFL Draft. He’s capable of shadowing top receivers and shutting down his side of the field. The Titans had one of the worst secondaries in the NFL this past season, so upgrades are obviously needed. They have some money to spend in free agency on a stud safety, potentially even bringing Eric Berry back to the state of Tennessee. With Lattimore in the fold, the Titans would have a new number one corner and someone who can come in and make a big impact right away.Next: 6th Pick

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

Leonard Fournette

Running Back, LSU

Rumor has it, Christian Hackenberg impressed the Jets this season with his work on the practice field. As they continue to develop the former Penn State quarterback as their potential QB of the future, one way they can make life easier for whoever is throwing passes is to add a stud running back like Leonard Fournette. They obviously signed Matt Forte last offseason to come and plug a hole, and he played pretty well for them, but Fournette is simply too talented to pass up on. I think the Jets obviously have to be certain they have the right strategy moving forward at QB, but there will be some decent veteran options for them to consider this year, perhaps taking a flier on Colin Kaepernick. Fournette is a monster at the running back position who grades out similarly to Ezekiel Elliott as a prospect.Next: 7th Pick

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

Jamal Adams

Safety, LSU

As the Chargers move to Los Angeles, one area of this team that has been an area of strength the last couple of years has been the defensive front. It’s not been perfect, but I think the secondary could be upgraded here with Jamal Adams of LSU or even Malik Hooker of Ohio State. I think Adams has the ability to make a quicker impact in the NFL, though Hooker may have a higher ceiling. Both players are excellent prospects, and both add playmaking ability to the back end of the Chargers’ defense. Adams has a reputation for being a phenomenal leader and could emerge quickly as one of the top young safeties in the NFL. He has great range and could be a dominant force in the NFL.Next: 8th Pick

Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Solomon Thomas

Defensive End, Stanford

The Carolina Panthers had a free-fall from grace this year as their loss in the Super Bowl lingered into 2016. The offense was nowhere near the same as we saw in 2015, and the defense struggled to keep up. There’s a chance here to upgrade their defensive front and pass rush with Solomon Thomas, and I think they take it. Thomas is one of the fastest rising prospects in the draft right now, and he’s someone you can play inside or outside as a rusher and get production from him. There are some who feel like he’s a ‘tweener’ at the next level, but in a four-man front, I think he could be a solid base defensive end and move around the formation, causing problems for opposing offenses.Next: 9th Pick

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) reacts after a catch during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Williams

Wide Receiver, Clemson

The Bengals struggled to find an adequate replacement for the losses of Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones, who were obviously more integral pieces of the offense than any of us anticipated. Couple those losses with the injury to Tyler Eifert, and the recipe added up to disaster. The opportunity to add Mike Williams from Clemson is an exciting prospect for the Bengals, who could certainly look to a number of areas with this pick. Williams has phenomenal hands, body control, and playmaking ability. With A.J. Green commanding attention on the other side, Williams could excel as a rookie with Tyler Boyd playing primarily out of the slot.Next: 10th Pick

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

Safety, Ohio State

With new head coach Sean McDermott, this is simply a value pick for the Bills, who will also have plenty of questions to answer at the quarterback position. At this juncture, Hooker might be too good to pass up on, and a former defensive coordinator in McDermott will see the value his playmaking ability brings to the table. While Hooker has some definite areas of weakness at this point, the ability to attack the football and create turnovers are unmatched in this year’s draft. He’s drawn comparisons by some to the great Ed Reed. The Bills need to make sure they can get past Tom Brady in the AFC East, so creating turnovers is a high priority.Next: 11th Pick

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) during warm-ups before the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

Linebacker, Alabama

The New Orleans Saints have the horses offensively to keep pace in the NFC South, but the defense needs to be able to keep up. There’s probably not a better scenario for them in the first round than to have Reuben Foster fall into their laps. One of the best off-ball linebackers in the game, Foster is set to have an instant impact in the NFL in a number of areas. He can blitz, he can fill gaps, he can make plays behind the line of scrimmage. He is effective in coverage and plays all three downs and can also have an impact on special teams. There’s a good chance he won’t be on the board here with this pick, but if he is, the Saints shouldn’t hesitate to turn in a card with his name on it.Next: 12th Pick

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks to the bench against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

DeShaun Watson

Quarterback, Clemson

As I said before, the Browns have an obvious need for a franchise quarterback. I don’t think there are many better options in this draft than DeShaun Watson, at least for my money. This kid is a winner. There are issues with his accuracy at times, but Watson played his best on the biggest stages, and that should excite a prospective NFL franchise. The idea of playing in Cleveland might not be ideal for Watson, but he said before the Super Bowl that he spoke to Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson about not playing in the Senior Bowl. I don’t think the Browns are worried about Watson’s abilities, and I think after getting an elite defender with their first pick, they’d be comfortable taking the National Champion with this selection.Next: 13th Pick

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

Sidney Jones

Cornerback, Washington

Where do the Arizona Cardinals go in this year’s draft? I think it will be absolutely fascinating to watch. They could definitely use a number one receiver now with Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd both out or almost out of the picture. I don’t know if they’ll pass on Corey Davis or John Ross here, but the Cardinals could also look to free agency for a receiver and give Carson Palmer some more options there. Sidney Jones is a tough cornerback with playmaking ability that would be most-welcome opposite Patrick Peterson in Arizona’s defense. This is a team that needs to make all the right moves this offseason to find themselves back in the thick of things in January. Upgrading the secondary is definitely near the top of their to-do list.Next: 14th Pick

Sep 3, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes on Hawaii Warriors offensive lineman RJ Hollis (74) at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Taco Charlton

Edge Defender, Michigan

The Indianapolis Colts are finally getting some new management in the front office, and it won’t come without some major changes on the defensive side of the football. The Colts need to get younger on defense, and this move accomplishes that. Not only do they need to get younger, but the Colts need some new blood in the pass rush department. While Charlton has only started realizing his potential, he was Michigan’s team leader with 9.5 sacks this past season and finished with 13 tackles for loss. He has excellent size and athleticism, and could be exactly what the Colts need on the defensive side of the ball to get a new era started.Next: 15th Pick

Sep 4, 2015; Kalamazoo, MI, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) runs though the tackle of Michigan State Spartans linebacker Darien Harris (45) during the 2nd half of a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Corey Davis

Wide Receiver, Western Michigan

The Eagles made a significant investment in Carson Wentz last offseason. They need to make sure they fortify that investment by putting some of the best talent possible around him, and one area that has been an area of struggle for this team is at wide receiver. 2015 first round pick Nelson Agholor hasn’t quite developed as hoped, so the Eagles use this first round selection on Corey Davis, one of the most sound prospects in this draft, in my opinion. Davis has big play ability, but he’s consistent and looks like a sure-fire bet to produce at the next level. He will be someone Carson Wentz can rely on for years to come.Next: 16th Pick

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

Tim Williams

Edge Defender, Alabama

The Baltimore Ravens need to get some new blood off the edge at some point in this year’s draft, and we all know about general manager Ozzie Newsome’s connections at Alabama. Newsome gets an Alabama kid here, and one of the most explosive pass rushers in the class. Tim Williams has a great get-off, and can get after the quarterback, but some scouts question whether he will develop into an all-around edge defender. The Ravens are as good as any team in the league at developing talent, and I think they could teach him how to be effective all three downs while benefitting from his relentless desire to hit quarterbacks.Next: 17th Pick

Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Malik McDowell

Defensive Line, Michigan State

The Redskins will be investing significantly in their offense this offseason even before the draft begins. Their situation with Kirk Cousins isn’t necessarily enviable, but at least they have some clarity about their quarterback position moving forward. With some key receivers hitting the expiration of their contracts, that could be a position of focus in the draft as well, but I like the idea of the Redskins simply cashing in on one of the most talented defensive linemen in this year’s class. I think Malik McDowell is scheme versatile with great size and the ability to dominate games. Of course, we’d like to see more consistency from him, which is why he’s not being picked in the top 10 in this mock draft. He could rise significantly with a strong Combine workout.Next: 18th Pick

Sep 17, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) rushes the ball against the Portland State Vikings during the second half at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

John Ross

Wide Receiver, Washington

John Ross is the best vertical threat in the draft, and his versatility as a return specialist and slot receiver increase his value. I fully expect him to blow everyone’s doors off with a great Combine workout, and I think he would really add another dimension to the Titans’ offense. With Kendall Wright likely leaving in free agency, Dorial Green-Beckahm gone, and Justin Hunter in Buffalo, the Titans’ wide receiver position has undergone a major makeover. Marcus Mariota is going to need more weapons, and I think Ross can be an ideal player for him to work with at any part of the field. Especially when trying to blow the top off of a defense, Ross is going to make a major difference in the NFL.Next: 19th Pick

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

Derek Barnett

Defensive End, Tennessee

When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers let go of Michael Bennett, it was easy to see that they had made one of the worst decisions imaginable. While Barnett won’t be able to enter the NFL and just ‘be’ Michael Bennett, he has similar traits and ability off the edge. When I watch Barnett play, I see someone who is relentless. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and a type of toughness and nastiness that you need in a defensive end. He’s been incredibly productive at Tennessee, and while at times he’s relied more on talent than reacting and technique, Barnett has displayed an elite level ability to make plays in the backfield, something that cannot be ignored. Some feel like he has scheme versatility to play as an OLB in a 3-4 defensive alignment, which bodes well for him as a potential first round pick. He will be a very nice addition to the Bucs’ defensive front.Next: 20th Pick

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

Tight End, Alabama

The Broncos are expected to address some major needs on the offensive line in free agency, leaving the draft for other areas of need. After a phenomenal week at the Senior Bowl and another fantastic National Championship performance, the secret is out in regards to Howard. This is one of the most complete tight end prospects we have watched. He can split out wide and play receiver, and he fits in. He can line up in-line and block, and he excels. There’s nothing he really can’t do, and I think he’d be a great asset for the Denver Broncos’ offense, a unit that was among the worst in the NFL this past season.Next: 21st Pick

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) reacts in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Humphrey

Cornerback, Alabama

The Detroit Lions have one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks in Darius Slay, but they need a number two that can be on that level. At this juncture of the first round, Humphrey is a great value pick. He has ideal measurables for a defensive back, good hip movement, and an edge to his game that you love to see in a cornerback. Despite being raw in certain areas of his game, the talent and upside are too much for the Lions to pass on at this pick. Humphrey is the kind of player that can develop into a lock-down corner if developed properly, and it might not take that long. He has the ‘hate to lose’ mentality and fire that cornerbacks need to be successful in today’s NFL.Next: 22nd Pick

Dec 3, 2016; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers offensive lineman Forrest Lamp (76) celebrates his teams victory following the CUSA championship game against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Western Kentucky won 58-44. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Forrest Lamp

Offensive Line, Western Kentucky

The Miami Dolphins made some wholesale changes to the offensive line last year, including cutting some former high draft picks mid-season. With Branden Albert a candidate for release this offseason, the plan seems to be to move Laremy Tunsil out to his natural position of left tackle. If Tunsil moves out to left tackle, drafting Forrest Lamp to play left guard could put the Dolphins in a situation where they are building the type of line that Dallas, Tennessee, and Oakland have. Lamp is one of the most technically sound players I’ve watched in preparations for the draft. While he played left tackle in college, scouts consider him an ideal fit for guard in the NFL due to his arm length.Next: 23rd Pick

Nov 19, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Dalvin Cook

Running Back, Florida State

This would be a bit of a value pick for the Giants here, but I doubt anyone would complain. Their championship window with Eli Manning is dwindling a bit, and they need some more balance to their offensive attack. I love the combination of Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard, but the running game was simply not that good for the Giants this past year. They have a bunch of names at running back, but adding a difference maker and home run hitter like Dalvin Cook could make this offense deadly. Cook has big play ability any time he touches the football, and excels after the catch as a receiver. I think he would be a fun back to watch with Eli Manning.Next: 24th Pick

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

Caleb Brantley

Defensive Tackle, Florida

Armed with one of the best offenses in the NFL this past season, the Oakland Raiders struggled mightily on defense. There are some playmakers, specifically on the front seven, but the Raiders need more from their interior rush, which is why I’ve selected Brantley here. He’s got the quickness and power to be an immediate difference maker for Oakland, especially with Mack commanding so much attention off the edge. The Raiders need to start building in the trenches defensively, and this would be a good step in the right direction.Next: 25th Pick

Sep 29, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) drops back to pass against the Kansas Jayhawks in the first half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Mahomes

Quarterback, Texas Tech

At this point, this pick wouldn’t be the slightest bit shocking. The Houston Texans just spent a ton of money, banking on the fact that Brock Osweiler would be someone they didn’t really know if he could be. Patrick Mahomes would be my second ranked quarterback in this draft based on what I’ve seen. He has one of the strongest arms in the draft, and is great at making plays on the run, or simply taking off and running with the ball. This would give the Texans a cost-effective option for the next five years while focusing on also developing other areas of the team. This would be a high upside move in my opinion, and while Osweiler is pretty much guaranteed another year with the team, he’s not guaranteed a starting job and Mahomes could come in and contend.Next: 26th Pick

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) in action during the game against the Western Michigan Broncos in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Ramczyk

Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin

The Seattle Seahawks’ offensive line was an abomination for much of the season. Ryan Ramczyk only played one season at Wisconsin, but he showed that he has potential franchise left tackle potential with the flexibility to perhaps start off his NFL career on the right side if need be. He showed off excellent strength and athleticism in his one year as a member of the Badgers, but the one question mark going into the draft is whether or not his hips will be an issue. He’s expected to need surgery this offseason, and may not be able to work out for teams prior to the draft.Next: 27th Pick

Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40) against the Missouri Tigers during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jarrad Davis

Linebacker, Florida

Derrick Johnson suffered another season-ending injury and the Kansas City Chiefs have to be thinking about a potential long-term solution. The concern with Jarrad Davis is durability at this point, but the upside is immense. He has great range and athleticism for a linebacker, and delivers punishing hits. He was all over the field as a junior, racking up 98 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and 3.5 sacks. Davis is a finisher that would fit in well with the Chiefs’ style of defense. He’s excellent against the run and in coverage, and provides a versatile threat at the next level.Next: 28th Pick

Oct 29, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) 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

Teez Tabor

Cornerback, Florida

Scouts seem to be torn on Tabor, though not about his physical skillset. Tabor has excellent size at 6-0, 201 pounds, and with nine career interceptions to his name, the ball skills are certainly there as well. What he will have to prove at the next level is that he can limit the number of mental mistakes on the field. While he measures out as one of the most physically gifted corners in college football, the physicality isn’t really there. Still, in terms of coverage ability, this would be a nice value for the Cowboys. They would be getting a nice upgrade for their secondary and someone who would be motivated to prove he should have been drafted much higher.Next: 29th Pick

Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) reacts after a touchdown in the second half against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the Russell Athletic Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

David Njoku

Tight End, Miami

While Jared Cook certainly made some noise in the playoffs, the Packers need a more consistent threat at the tight end position, and Njoku would excel early with this team, I think. There’s a lot that tight ends have to be responsible for in the NFL, but the Packers have the horses up front to be able to bring Njoku along as a receiver first, blocker second. And it’s not that Njoku is unwilling or unable to be an in-line blocker, either. He showed a willingness to do it at Miami, but he was much better as a receiver. He would be deadly with Rodgers throwing him passes, and NFL teams would loathe to face off against this Packers offense featuring Njoku along with Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Davante Adams, Ty Montgomery, and the rest of the gang.Next: 30th Pick

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Takkarist McKinley

Edge Defender, UCLA

Getting help off the edge is imperative for the Steelers, who have been doing a really good job of compiling front seven talent. Bud Dupree looks like he has a bright future in this league, but McKinley would be a really nice threat on the opposite side of the field. He’s sort of a sleeper first round pick at this point, someone who didn’t originally qualify academically coming out of high school. He played extremely well this past season at UCLA, racking up 61 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, six pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. That type of production doesn’t just happen by accident, and if McKinley shows out at the Combine, he could be drafted much higher.Next: 31st Pick

Jan 25, 2017; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad wide receiver Amba Etta-Tawo of Syracuse (17) runs a pass route against safety Obi Melifonwu of Connecticut (20) during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

Obi Melifonwu

Safety, Connecticut

The Atlanta Falcons lost a heart-breaking Super Bowl to the New England Patriots, and a defensive breakdown in the second half was part of the reason why. While Atlanta’s defense was seemingly better and better as the season wore along, they were bad throughout the regular season at times, ranking in the 20s in most categories. Now that they have a legit pass rusher in Vic Beasley and some excellent pieces at linebacker and in the secondary, I believe we will see Dan Quinn and the Falcons’ front office identify a player with the size of Kam Chancellor and the same type of range as a safety. Melifonwu would be a nice safety pairing with Keanu Neal, who had a very good rookie season.Next: 32nd Pick

Nov 26, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) celebrates following a sack during the second quarter against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

T.J. Watt

Linebacker, Wisconsin

The New England Patriots have been a model for player development over the last two decades. They have shown an incredible ability to win with whatever they’ve got, but this year, they will have an opportunity to go out and draft a stud pass rusher like T.J. Watt at the bottom of the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. I think the Patriots would love to have Watt because of the way they value versatility in their defenders, and Watt fits the bill. While he is effective off the edge, he’s also someone that can play and hold up well in the middle and occasionally drop into coverage. He gives the type of play-by-play effort the Patriots require out of their players. He has the same competitive fire as his brother and will be a great asset in New England.

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