National Football League

2017 NFL Mock Draft: Trade Rush Brings Top 10 Confusion

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

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Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The 2017 NFL mock draft season is kicking into high gear as teams begin to gain a firmer footing on where they will likely be picking in five months.

Barring an incredible turnaround, the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers look like locks for the #1 and #2 spots respectively. The real action over the final four games of the season will be determining who fills the remaining eight spots of the top 10 behind them. After that things should become clearer in regards to likely targets in the upcoming class.

1. Cleveland Browns

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

Most experts agree that title belongs to Myles Garrett. The Texas A&M pass rush is the best to come out of college in some time. Maybe not as physically gifted as Jadeveon Clowney but more accomplished. He is a gifted athlete with size and strength. That means he can play in any defense. His primary ability is slicing into the backfield and wreaking havoc. Power. Speed. Agility. He has it all in addition to good polish. This is the type of talent teams change cultures with.

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Austin Appleby (12) is brought down by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) during the fourth quarter of the SEC Championship college football game at Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Florida 54-16. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

2. Tennessee Titans (via SF)

Titans get #2 pick

49ers get #6 pick, #14 pick and 3rd rounder in 20182

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

Jonathan Allen earns high praise from Nick Saban every time his name is brought up, and for good reason. The defensive end is the motor of that great Alabama defense. It doesn’t matter the situation or who’s across from him, Allen finds a way to impact the play. He has the size and power to stop the run but also the burst and quickness to get after the quarterback. There just really isn’t a time to not worry about him, otherwise he’ll ruin the afternoon for an opponent.

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

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

Jabrill Peppers is the perfect example. He might be the most talked-about prospect in the class. A freak athlete with linebacker size and corner speed. There is a chance he could become the next great free safety in the NFL if he can learn to hone his instincts and improve his ball skills. Already he’s a solid run defender and tackler who can blitz and return punts. The rest merely required time, hard work and good coaching.

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

4. Carolina Panthers (via CHI)

Panthers get #4 pick

Bears get #8 pick, 2nd in 2017, 6th in 2017 and 3rd in 20184

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

This draft class is heavy on edge rushers and Derek Barnett is among the top three. He has 32 sacks in his college career and is a great fit for a 4-3 defensive scheme that the Panthers run. He has enough flexibility to bend the edge, can explode off the snap and shows the quickness to beat blockers with his hands. Size and power won’t be problems. Put him across from Kony Ealy with Kawann Short in the middle and that front is doing damage.

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

5. New York Jets

Teez Tabor

CB, Florida

So they seek out a quick fix. Luckily the 2017 draft class is loaded with quality corners and Teez Tabor ranks right at the top. He’s an experienced, athletic and polished defender. The speed is there for him to hang with receivers deep but also the instinct to play the football in the air. He’s not afraid to get physical at the line of scrimmage or as a tackler. If the Jets are looking for somebody who can start immediately, this is the choice.

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

6. San Francisco 49ers (via TEN from LA)

Deshone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

So they decide to trade down and collect some picks before making the call. Deshone Kizer saw his stock sag badly over the past couple month at Notre Dame. Nobody doubts his mix of size, mobility, arm strength and intelligence makes him a high 1st round option. His production and erratic play have just made it difficult to evaluate him. The coaching and options around him haven’t helped. Nonetheless his upside is probably greater than any in this class and worth the risk.

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Austin Appleby (12) runs the ball around Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) during the fourth quarter of the SEC Championship college football game at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

7. Cincinnati Bengals

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Rueben Foster gets lost in the shuffle sometimes playing on what might be a historic defense down in Alabama. Nevertheless his presence is vitally important to their success. He’s their conductor, the one who orchestrates the action on the field, does the dirty work in tackling and is always in good position to help make the plays. Athletically he is a three-down player who functions well in space. There aren’t many drawbacks to picking him up.

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

8. Chicago Bears (via CAR)

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Peppers may get the hype but LSU standout Jamal Adams may actually be a better player at the position. He’s a true two-way threat. Not only is he excellent around the line of scrimmage at making tackles and stopping the run, he’s solid in coverage as a deep center fielder and also blanketing tight ends. His instinct shows up constantly in the ability to sniff out where plays are going before the snap. This could be the leader on the back end they’ve lacked for so long.

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

9. New Orleans Saints

Quincy Wilson

CB, Florida

Until they find answers, this team can’t even start to think about another Super Bowl run. Thankfully the 2017 class might be ready to oblige them. Quincy Wilson is fast gaining steam in scouting circles as a top corner in the draft. Maybe even better than high-profile Florida teammate Tabor. He’s tall, athletic, fluid, long and showcases good ball skills in coverage. Receivers have a hard time shaking him regardless of their size or style.

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

10. Indianapolis Colts (via SD)

Colts get #10 pick and 7th in 2017

Chargers get #13 pick and 3rd in 201710

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

He’s being called a better back than Todd Gurley was coming out of college. Even on par with Adrian Peterson. His blend of size, power, speed, and vision make him a nightmare for defenses to handle and that’s with no quarterback to worry about. So try to imagine it being an All-Pro like Luck feeding him the football on Sundays. The word unfair will start to be thrown around quite often in the years that follow.

Sep 24, 2016; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) gets sacked by Pittsburgh Panthers offensive lineman Tony Pilato (59) during the third quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Carolina defeated Pitt 37-36. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

11. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

Mitch Trubisky is one of the popular names on boards right now. Many feel he might be the best bet in this class due to his checking off most of the boxes. He’s big, elusive, and throws the ball with velocity and accuracy. Standing in the pocket and delivering it down the field isn’t a problem for him. Pressure doesn’t rattle him too much. There are concerns about his lack of experience, but under a good coach like Hue Jackson that isn’t as big an issue.

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) works out prior to the ACC Championship college football game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

12. Arizona Cardinals

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Clemson standout Mike Williams is considered the best in the class. He more than anybody exhibits the traits of a #1 target. He’s big with good leaping ability and strong hands, making him an instant threat in the red zone. He can run good routes to get himself free off the line and has quality game speed. Send him deep and he’ll find a way to come down with the big catch. The Cardinals will find a new QB eventually, and he’ll need weapons.

Dec 2, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) runs the ball for a touchdown in the first half against the Ohio Bobcats at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

13. San Diego Chargers (via IND)

Corey Davis

WR, Western Michigan

Money is certainly something Corey Davis has been. Despite playing at a smaller program of Western Michigan, he’s put up some impressive performances against pretty good teams. He’s got the size team look for, a pair of strong hands, decent speed and route running skills that are fairly advanced already. Pair him with a healthy Allen and emerging Hunter Henry at tight end and things get interesting in a hurry.

Nov 12, 2016; Greenville, NC, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs wide receiver Courtland Sutton (16) makes a third quarter catch against the East Carolina Pirates at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

14. San Francisco 49ers (via TEN)

Courtland Sutton

WR, SMU

Courtland Sutton is not a household name among draft pundits. Playing at SMU has a lot to do with that. Then again Emmanuel Sanders played there. So maybe that program has a good eye for receivers. Sutton has plenty of intriguing qualities from his sizable 6’3″ frame and sub-4.5 speed. He can play the possession game but doesn’t mind taking it deep when asked. His production backs up the talent too (1,246 yards and 10 TDs).

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

15. Buffalo Bills

Cameron Robinson

OT, Alabama

Rex Ryan is never one to shy away from taking gambles on talented players who might have questionable backgrounds. He’s actually had some success at it. Cameron Robinson is viewed as the best tackle prospect in the draft with his mix of size, power and functional athleticism. He would plug in nicely at that right tackle spot and fits the Bills’ run-heavy philosophy. It’s just a matter of figuring out how committed he is to football and can he stay out of trouble.

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

16. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

Often the first step in helping a young quarterback is with a running game. Doug Pederson did wonders out in Kansas City with Jamal Charles. Florida State standout Dalvin Cook is much the same type of player. He got a combination of speed and agility to go along with sharp vision. He sees where the hole is going to be and hits it without hesitation. Running between the tackles or around the edge, he can do both with equal success and can handle heavy workloads.

17. Green Bay Packers

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

O.J. Howard is widely viewed as the best prospect of a strong class. He’s a basketball type of athlete with a tall frame, soft hands and the ability to run. Defenses will see him take it deep if they’re not careful and he runs solid enough routes to create separation. It’s almost impossible to cover him with a linebacker and even safeties have a serious problem. Put him on the same field with Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams and this team is in business.

Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) gestures to the sidelines during the first half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

18. Washington Redskins

Malik McDowell

DE, Michigan State

So it’s their good fortune that Malik McDowell is still on the board. From a physical standpoint he is one of the best 3-4 defensive ends in the classic. A mix of size, strength, quickness and explosion. He has the required length and mass to hold the point of attack against the run but understands how to shoot gaps into the backfield and create pressure on the quarterback. This would finally give the Redskins some credibility up front.

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

19. Miami Dolphins

Charles Harris

DE, Missouri

Watch some of the highlights of Charles Harris at Missouri and they will swear they’re seeing shades of Dwight Freeney. Indeed he plays a similar type of game built on aggression, underrated athleticism and a non-stop motor. Not to mention a straight dirty spin move that makes tackles look silly. Harris is a great fit for a 4-3 system. He can contribute right away and take some of the snaps from Wake and others to keep them fresh.

Nov 12, 2016; College Park, MD, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Curtis Samuel (4) runs during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

20. Pittsburgh Steelers

Curtis Samuel

WR, Ohio State

They seem to place high favor on speed and athleticism. Explosion is the name of the game. Few fit that mold better than Curtis Samuel. He showed against Michigan just how devastating a playmaker he can be. Able to run routes and catch tough passes as a receiver but also tough enough to take hand-offs like a running back. There is almost no limit the ways a good offensive coordinator can use him.

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

21. Houston Texans

Ryan Ramczyk

OT, Wisconsin

Arguably the fastest riser on draft boards this past month is Wisconsin left tackle Ryan Ramczyk. Scouts are falling in love with his mixture of size and athleticism. He’s one of the few in the class who can move like a true blind side pass protector must in the NFL. It’s amazing he was playing in Division II last year before transferring. There are some underdeveloped areas in his game that will need polish, but that’s why Bill O’Brien gets paid the big bucks.

Nov 19, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) sacks Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Manny Wilkins (5) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Budda Baker

S, Washington

Oftentimes size is given too much precedence when identifying a quality safety. Instincts matter so much more and Budda Baker has plenty of those. Though only 5’10”, the Washington product has shown a consistent ability to be in the right place at the right time. He shows awareness and range in coverage, always being there when the ball arrives and making a play on it. While he’s need to beef up for the pros, he also knows how to tackle too.

Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) catches a pass for a first down in front of Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Manny Rugamba (5) at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa beat Michigan 14 to 13. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports

23. Denver Broncos

Jake Butt

TE, Michigan

Jake Butt is more of a throwback tight end. A Heath Miller-type who is a solid blocker in any situation and adds sneaky good athleticism and receiving ability. That is just the kind of guy Kubiak likes. He’ll lend a big hand in that running game the Broncos are trying to build and then right when opponents shift their focus to it, Butt will be able to gash them down the middle on play action. It’s deadly with the right people in place.

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

24. New York Giants

Zach Cunningham

ILB, Vanderbilt

Zach Cunningham is no stranger to being that lone fish in the empty sea. He’s done a terrific job despite playing on some questionable Vanderbilt teams. No matter what goes on during games, he always seems to be around the football. He brings energy and instinct to the position, tackles well and can play sideline to sideline. Put him in the aggressive Steve Spagnuolo scheme and that should take his abilities to new levels.

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

25. Atlanta Falcons

Gareon Conley

CB, Ohio State

Ohio State is certain to have plenty of top prospects as usual, but one the scouting community is beginning to elevate is cornerback Gareon Conley. With good reason too. He looks every bit like an NFL type. Big enough to body up receivers in press coverage, athletic and fast enough to stay on them down the field and disciplined both as a cover man and tackler. He doesn’t get much hype because he’s on such a talented team, but the kid can play.

Oct 15, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) celebrates a sack against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

26. Baltimore Ravens

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

Alabama will be a treasure trove of defensive prospects this year and Newsome has a history of favoring prospects from that program. Ask C.J. Mosley. Tim Williams has a chance to be another really good one. The outside linebacker is one of the best pass rushers in the country and a great fit for a 3-4 system due to his athleticism, speed and explosion. He knows how to bend the edge and finishes hard to the quarterback. Put him under the wing of Suggs and watch the fireworks.

Nov 19, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Brantley (57) celebrates after a stop during the second half against the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium. The Gators defeat the Tigers 16-10. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

27. Detroit Lions

Caleb Brantley

DT, Florida

Caleb Brantley has shown such prowess at Florida. He is their primary gap shooter, able to knife into the backfield and create chaos. He can blow up running plays or get pressure up the middle, opening up opportunities for the edge rushers to get their sacks. He hasn’t yet learned to fully utilize his considerable strengths. Good thing he’ll be under the direction of Teryl Austin, one of the top defensive coordinators in the game.

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

28. Kansas City Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes

QB, Texas Tech

Kansas City has a Super Bowl-caliber roster. Quarterback is the one area holding them back. They need a talent upgrade. Patrick Mahomes might have the most in the class. Critics will immediately say he’s a “backyard” quarterback who doesn’t play with fundamentals. He’s raw and inefficient too often. Not to mention trapped in a spread offense. Here’s the thing though. He instinctively just knows how to make big plays, whether with his arm or legs. Andy Reid can take care of the other stuff.

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) intercepts the ball from Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Josh Reynolds (11) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

29. Seattle Seahawks

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

It’s not yet clear whether Marlon Humphrey will declare coming out of Alabama, What is clear is his talent. His bigger body, length and ability play press are all attributes that the Seahawks like in their corners. There are lingering concerns about his fluidity in coverage but that hasn’t stopped him from making his fair share of plays. Put him across from Sherman and that back end would be almost impossible to throw against.

Oct 1, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) knocks the ball out of the hands of Rutgers Scarlet Knights wide receiver Andre Patton (88) at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

30. Oakland Raiders

Marshon Lattimore

CB, Ohio State

Marshon Lattimore is the other Ohio State corner and he’s got plenty of quality traits just like his teammate Conley. He’s got the size-speed combination coaches look for, isn’t afraid to tackle and shows frequent glimpses of good ball skills. Given the unfortunate dissapointment of D.J. Hayden, the Raiders have to think about finding somebody who can play with Sean Smith and David Amerson. They could do a lot worse than Lattimore.

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

31. New England Patriots

Jarrad Davis

ILB, Florida

Injuries might mask teams to just how good Jarrad Davis is. It’s not a chronic issue, just ill-timed. When he’s healthy the Florida linebacker flies to the football. Every time there’s a snap, one can always find him close in on the action. He can tackle. He can blitz and isn’t a liability in coverage. He does his job without getting too out of control. That is what a Belichick-type players is all about.

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

32. Dallas Cowboys

Dawuane Smoot

DE, Illinois

Even with the anticipated return of Randy Gregory, this team has big question marks at the defensive end spots. Unreliability being the biggest one. So adding at that position early would make sense. Dawuane Smoot makes plenty of sense for them. Not just because he’s a big athletic player who fits their scheme but also because he’s learned from Lovie Smith. A man who shares a relationship with Cowboys DC Rod Marinelli.