National Football League

NFL Mock Draft Bowl Season Edition - 12/01/2016

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

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Oct 30, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson watches warmups before a game against the New York Jets at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Another college regular season winding down, another NFL mock draft season set to begin. This is going to be a very controversial mock draft, so if your team doesn’t draft someone you “expected” your team to draft, I’m sorry. I like to think that you should think outside the box. Without further ado, enjoy!

Luke Falk

Quarterback, Washington State

Mitch Trubisky, Deshaun Watson, and DeShone Kizer have all seen time on the top of mock drafts. I think they have been very up-and-down this year. Luke Falk; he has been the best quarterback in college football this year. He threw 36 touchdowns to seven interceptions, that’s incredible, but is he good enough to rise to the top of the draft?

I wouldn’t doubt that Cleveland is afraid of addressing the quarterback position, but realistically, the whole team is terrible. They haven’t drafted well the last couple of years, and fans are tired of being upset. Hue Jackson might upset fans by drafting Falk, but he would be making the right decision.

Pro comparison: Carson Palmer – Arizona Cardinals

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Myles Garrett

Defensive End, Texas A&M

That’s the effort that the 49ers really need on the defensive line, since Justin Smith and Aldon Smith left just a few seasons ago, and Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner can’t stay on the same field.

The problems go beyond the defensive line, where I saw the 49ers stuffed the Cardinals, but they really need some help on the offensive line and the most important position on the field, quarterback. Go best player available in my opinion. Colin Kaepernick is a capable quarterback under Chip Kelly (if he stays), although, I wouldn’t depend on Kaep. Garrett is the best player available, go with him.

Pro comparison: Jadeveon Clowney – Houston Texans

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jabrill Peppers

Strong Safety/Outside Linebacker, Michigan

But for now, I stick to the defense. When nothing is going right for the defense that has some money tied up, it’s time to look in a different direction. I see glimpses of an Ed Reed-esque type of player in Jabrill Peppers, and for the Jaguars to pass on him would be a major mistake. I mean, I get the nostalgia to draft a guy like Jonathan Allen, but Jabrill is a playmaker with unbelievable athletic abilities, not to mention, he plays like an old-school iron man.

The Jaguars did invest into a player in the back-end last year, but that doesn’t fix all your problems Jacksonville. To put it simply, the chemistry isn’t coming together. You spend money on vets like Jared Odrick, Malik Jackson, Davon House, and Tashaun Gipson, but they aren’t fitting. I think Jabrill Peppers can be that glue.

Pro comparison: Devin McCourty – New England Patriots

Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Quincy Wilson

Cornerback, Florida

I am surprised that Quincy Wilson is not getting recognition, but I really shouldn’t be. Jalen Tabor is the big man on campus, as he is also destined for big things this draft, but let’s focus on Wilson. A big-bodied man-to-man cornerback who can cover ground. That’s unheard of. Richard Sherman anybody?

“But John, is Quincy the cream of the crop for the talented cornerback postion this year?” (My hypothetical self asking the question) I won’t go that far. He is a very talented corner, but he is in a tie with others (including his teammate). He needs a team willing to work with him, and I think the Bears are that team.

Pro comparison: Richard Sherman – Seattle Seahawks

Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Williams

Wide Receiver, Clemson

Don’t misjudge the situation, it seems like I’m going for want in this situation, but I feel that’s inacurrate. Mike Williams is a guy with unbelievable athletic abilities, and is farther along on his game this his fellow receivers. I have seen Mike Williams out-run a corner, out-jump a corner, and make a feisty play on a corner. He is destined for big things in the NFL!

Who’s going to throw to Mike, Brandon, and Eric then? That’s none of my concern at this point. It’s about getting the team to improve, and Mike Williams is a tremendous playmaker for a Jets team needing immediate help. They still need help on defense, but for right now, just invest on the future.

Pro comparison: DeAndre Hopkins – Houston Texans

Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Allen

Defensive End, Alabama

Giving him a few years is possible, as the Panthers have a few options to stand in front of Allen in the meantime. Kony Ealy and a possible return of Charles Johnson could benefit a young star like Jonathan Allen. I think he is one of the few stars that could start in the outset of camp if need be. If Charles Johnson doesn’t return, and if Kony Ealy continues his disappointing streak of being the starter.

Jonathan Allen has given some pretty impressive performances, as he has been a very solid defensive stalwart on a solid defense for the Tide. He doesn’t disappeer during big games, forcing tackles for loss and sacks. Consistancy will never be an issue, nor will injuries.

Pro comparison: Corey Liuget – San Diego Chargers

Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Jamal Adams

Free Safety, Louisiana State

There should be no fan disappointed with Jamal Adams going to their hometown team, especially when he’s from the same area. Jamal Adams is a lanky safety with unbelievable cover skills, and can make a break for the ball effortesly.

No, I don’t think that the Saints need to invest in another quarterback, stack the box with what you already have, and give Drew Brees more options. That includes making your defense respectable, just so that Brees doesn’t have to try to put up unbelievable numbers that an MVP would have to do. I love that they have drafted defense heavy the last couple of years, doesn’t mean you stop drafting defense.

Pro comparison: Malcolm Jenkins – Philadelphia Eagles

Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Blace Brown

Cornerback, Troy

The Titans have depended on Perrish Cox, who had one pro-bowl potential year for the 49ers, but was rewarded as if he was better then he really is. The Titans are a team on the cusp of being a playoff team, another year of drafting accordingly is what they really need. Of course, the receiver position is a need, but defense is a staple.

Pro comparison: Dre Kirkpatrick – Cincinnati Bengals

Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports

Corey Davis

Wide Receiver, Western Michigan

Many want to see the running back position in this spot, but I just don’t think the Bengals will be the team to do it. It’s been a very explosive division, and having a player like Corey Davis will only put the Bengals above the Steelers in the division. After Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu left, I really started to doubt the progression of the Bengals, but if they capture a playmaker like Corey Davis, my doubt will subside.

Pro comparison: Jeremy Maclin – Kansas City Chiefs

Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

DeShone Kizer

Quarterback, Notre Dame

I think Carson Palmer is still a capable leader for the Cardinals, the big three (Palmer, Fitzgerald, and Arians) might depart soon, but they might be able to bring in the future for the time being. The defensive backfield needs help, but I think the future of the quarterback position is a little bit more important. Maybe the offensive line needs more help also. Being a playmaker doesn’t hurt either, moving in the pocket, etc.

Pro comparison: Teddy Bridgewater – Minnesota Vikings

Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Leonard Fournette

Running Back, Louisiana State

Louisiana State has been disappointing, but Leonard Fournette isn’t close to being disappointing. Even with injuries, Fournette has kept himself way ahead of the second tier running backs. His vision, power, and speed is something to marvel, as he seems just as talented as Todd Gurley, with more upside then Gurley. The Packers haven’t had a premier running back in quite some time, Fournette can be that featured back.

We can joke that the Lambeau fans are insane, but truth is, they can’t have many losing seasons, or the earth will explode. Explosive running back might counteract the earth exploding.

Pro comparison: Todd Gurley – Los Angeles Rams

Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Mike McGlinchey

Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame

The Chargers play in the most difficult division, with some very impressive defenses not far and few in between. Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Khalil Mack, and Justin Houston just to name a few. So getting a book-end potential tackle could change the dynamic for the Chargers.

Pro comparison: Terron Armstead – New Orleans Saints

Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Rasul Douglas

Cornerback, West Virginia

With that being said, the Colts have seen a somewhat disappointing season from Vontae Davis, something irregular from Mr. Shutdown, but positives are being taken from this assessment. If the Colts are capable of getting themselves out of the shadows of AFC obscurity, they should give credit to the return act of Andrew Luck.

Rasul Douglas is someone who can use his length and body positioning to block out receivers. I don’t want people to say that Douglas is better then Marlon Humphrey, Marshon Lattimore, or Desmond King. I just think he’s a lot more of a lankier guy with a proven track-record. And 7 interceptions can show he can make a play on the ball.

Pro comparison: Terence Newman – Minnesota Vikings

Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Curtis Samuel

Wide Receiver/Running Back, Ohio State

I see a young man from Ohio State, and see potential. Just like the Bills, Curtis Samuel just needs to put the pieces together, and hope that he (or the team) can be that contributing factor. Solid, not great route running, quick burst off the line of scrimmage, I think he could be the robin to Sammy Watkins’ batman. Don’t forget he plays running back too, versatility.

Pro comparison: Danny Amendola – New England Patriots

Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Tabor

Cornerback, Florida

The Browns are one of the youngest teams in the NFL, and will be even younger with the draft selections they have this year. Joe Haden has been unrealiable in coverage, Tramon Williams will probably not be with the Browns next year, and Jamar Taylor is a nickel corner.

I love what they have done since Hue Jackson has taken over, as the drafting of Emmanuel Ogbah and Carl Nassib on the line, and then they trade for a possible cornerstone in Jamie Collins. If they fix the back-end of the secondary, this team could make strides in the right direction. That means staying consistant, if the front office fires Jackson, no way should they do anything of that capacity.

Pro comparison: Trumaine Johnson – Los Angeles Rams

Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

Tight End, Alabama

I love their offense, it’s one of the best in terms of efficiency, and I don’t see many things they have to improve on. There are some they could improve on in the draft, tight end is a big need for an offense that loves to utilize in-line blocking, and one-on-one transition blocking. That’s what David Johnson has been, Jesse James needs development, and I don’t know if they will use Ladarius Green.

Another asset for a Nick Saban led offense, O.J. Howard has been a bona fide stud tight end, and has been consistently a big weapon for Jalen Hurts. He has great skills for blocking, and could be a top target for the Steelers.

Pro comparison: Delanie Walker – Tennessee Titans

Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Vita Vea

Nose Tackle, Washington

Vita Vea has been a huge riser in this draft, providing the Washington Huskies with a strong gap penetrating fit. I want to say that the Bucs would be getting high-motor guy, but he hasn’t been the starter all that long.

There are other issues to Vea, as he wasn’t as consistant during his redshirt freshman year. The only reason he is in the first round at all is his overall “freak abilities”. Remember, he isn’t going to be a riser like Danny Shelton a few years ago, but he does have some of the same mobility and strength.

Pro comparison: Vince Wilfork – Houston Texans

Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Humphrey

Cornerback, Alabama

I don’t know if it’s right though, as the Texans are continuing the year with corner coverage that consists of man-on-man, and leaving Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph on an island. I’d rather let one of those guys go, as they have struggled a lot more this year with the lack of a pass-rush.

The Bama’ defense has been very impressive this year, as they have put together a very pro-level blitz defense. Marlon Humphrey is a guy who can be put out on an island. I think he can play with the same speed as the faster receivers, just needs time to adjust.

Pro comparison: Bashaud Breeland – Washington Redskins

Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Desmond King

Cornerback, Iowa

Sometimes throwing at a guy can patent a guys stats, the fact no one is throwing at Desmond King has dropped his stats. Positive into a negative, as teams will look at it as a negative.

The Dolphins traded for Kiko Alonso and Byron Maxwell to allow the Eagles to get themselves into the top-10 last draft, and neither seems to be working out very well. I like Maxwell, he just seems to not thrive in pressure situations, drawing a lot of pass interference calls. I think Xavien Howard and Tony Lippett have been solid, but I’d rather put my money on a guy like King. Don’t buy in on Maxwell, that’s my advice.

Pro comparison: William Gay – Pittsburgh Steelers

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Barnett

Defensive End, Tennessee

I think the pairing of Derek Barnett and a 3-4 defense could be beneficial, as he does have the body type to hold his ground against a tough o-line like the Cowboys. He is pure finesse, being able to also have the energy to get home on plays. Almost a double sack guy, except the Redskins need more help if they want that type of potential from their defense.

Pro comparison: Demarcus Lawrence – Dallas Cowboys

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Robinson

Offensive Tackle, Alabama

Enter Cam Robinson, one of the best offensive lineman in the draft, and because their isn’t as many good offensive lineman in the draft, someone is bound to reach for one. I don’t blame someone making a huge gamble on a weak class, but if no one does, the Ravens could get a steal for Robinson.

Another great thing is the protection we would be getting for Joe Flacco, who then would have a lot more time in the pocket. If the Ravens are sticking with the combination of Terrance West and Kenneth Dixon, then it’s not a bad idea to upgrade the line. Robinson has strong hands, has great IQ, but seems a little slower then the next option (Ryan Ramczyk or Dan Feeney).

Pro comparison: Jared Veldheer – Arizona Cardinals

Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Dalvin Cook

Running Back, Florida State

The Eagles have a fumble-prone running back named Ryan Matthews, but I think he is still good enough to take first-team snaps. Giving him a partner in snaps could have him fresher, and pairing Cook and Matthews would be instant firepower.

Pro comparison: Jamaal Charles – Kansas City Chiefs

Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Godwin

Wide Receiver, Penn State

That possession receiver is Chris Godwin, he plays through the whistle, and is another riser in the draft in my estimation. He is smooth out of his break, and makes his speed known when blowing by defenders. I think Penn State uses him very well, and Detroit should be a great spot for him.

I want the Lions to remember one thing, their only going to get better if they give Matthew Stafford weapons. Giving him more weapons to play with will only benefit them more. I still love Golden Tate as the primary option, Marvin Jones has done a good job, but I think Godwin could be the up-and-comer.

Pro comparison: Terrance Williams – Dallas Cowboys

Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports

Malik McDowell

Defensive End, Michigan State

Malik McDowell is a top-10 draft selection, but recent injury history makes him suspectible to sliding down the draft board. I still think he’s a very talented player, he has some of the best interior pressure, and makes a strong move inside. The difference between Malik McDowell and Vita Vea is the speed aspect, McDowell being able to get himself into the backfield with a solid pass-rush.

If the Broncos can add to their depth, I think they will continue to be competitive in the AFC West. I don’t know if Malik McDowell will make any starts. The Broncos could let McDowell sit until healthy. I say let him sit.

Pro comparison: Derek Wolfe – Denver Broncos

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

Carl Lawson

Defensive End, Auburn

The Falcons are one of the few teams that get away with an “okay” defensive front, not very dominant, but makes due with a vet like Dwight Freeney and Brooks Reed. They need to get a better pass-rush, and show that they can be more athletic up front.

I loved what the Falcons defense did against the struggling Cardinals, showing that they have enough pieces in the secondary and an athletic linebacker corps. Carl Lawson can also play well against the run, has great hand placement, but sometimes can get stuck into blockers. His upside is tremendous though.

Pro comparison: Frank Clark – Seattle Seahawks

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

JuJu Smith-Schuster

Wide Receiver, Southern California

I definitely made a bold prediction: The Titans are going to be a playoff contender, and that’s due to them being a very good and young team. JuJu Smith-Schuster is a smooth opperator, maybe not the best route runner, but he does make some big plays when needed. A speed demon, I love his competitive nature, and could be kick-returner in the beginning of his NFL season.

Pro comparison: Stefon Diggs – Minnesota Vikings

Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Deshaun Watson

Quarterback, Clemson

Deshaun Watson has been up-and-down this year, and that’s typically not said about a guy who throws 34 touchdowns to 14 interceptions. He has the talent, trust me on that, his upside is still not known, and he could still reclaim the first overall spot. He makes a lot of pro style throws, can be a tremendous runner, and has the ability to throw under duress.

How long can Eli Manning continue to play? The opinion for me is that he could keep going until 39 (when Peyton retired), which gives the Giants three more seasons to develop a quarterback. This is a talented, yet unknown quarterback class, take a chance this year.

Pro comparison: Chase Daniel – Philadelphia Eagles

Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Sidney Jones

Cornerback, Washington

Oakland has been a pleasant surprise, as they have played a lot better then expected, and already post a winning season with five games to go. The thing is, are they good enough beat out division-rivals Broncos and Chiefs? We will see.

I think Sidney Jones has the talent that D.J. Hayden doesn’t, fast player who doesn’t go on skates when someone cuts on a route. I love that Jones has been a very competitive player for the Huskies, and he is very raw in terms of developing into a “style of play”. Man coverage could use work when he get’s to the NFL, but Jones will have an opportunity to learn from Sean Smith.

Pro comparison: Jimmy Wilson – Baltimore Ravens

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Evans

Strong Safety, Texas A&M

The Chiefs have some decisions to make, Eric Berry is a free agent this year, and the Chiefs have to wonder if he’s worth top-safety money. I personally think he is, but if you’re paying Ron Parker $5 million a year, is there enough money to go around?

Don’t forget either, Justin Evans can be that safety who can play in the box, and can check the run. He is versatile, and some team is going to find gold when they bring in a guy like Evans. His pass-coverage needs some tweeks, but if they keep Berry, he can show him the ropes.

Pro comparison: Mike Adams – Indianapolis Colts

Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Harold Landry

Defensive End, Boston College

About that, I think that Gregory and Lawrence are very talented pass-rushers, they just can’t get away from getting suspended. The Cowboys have found a way to make their defense better then last year, and to me, Jack Crawford and Terrell McClain have done more then what I was expecting from them. Landry is raw, in terms of learning to swim-and-rip offensive players, and he could easily be a contributor in year one.

Pro comparison: Nick Perry – Green Bay Packers

Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

Inside Linebacker/Outside Linebacker, Alabama

Reuben Foster has been very impressive for the ‘Bama defense this year, being an every-down inside linebacker. If corner wasn’t as impressive, he would be higher (just like Harold Landry and Justin Evans). “They have Bobby Wagner already?” Yes curious fan, but Brock Coyle is your back-up.

I don’t know if Alabama is linebacker U, but I do know that they’ve been very impressive in the linebacker corps for the last few seasons. Reuben Foster can line up on the tight end adequately, and plays the run game very well. I think it’s the Reggie Ragland effect; Is it the program they run for the tide or is it specifically the player?

Pro comparison: Tahir Whitehead – Detroit Lions

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Adoree' Jackson

Cornerback, Southern California

The Patriots will have a few free agents this year, an almost unlucky amount. They did get rid of Jamie Collins, but they will still need to think about the future. Adoree’ can take over for the departure of impending free-agent Logan Ryan, that will handle one problem.

Cyrus Jones was selected last year for the Patriots, so throwing him into action immediately won’t be necessary either. He can learn the Patriot way first, and focus on kick return and punt return.

Pro comparison: Joe Haden – Cleveland Browns