Philadelphia Eagles

Withthefirstpick 2017 In-Season Weekly Mock Draft: Week 3

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

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Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in action during the game against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Withthefirstpick is at it again with another 2017 Mock Draft. We will have a mock draft each week as the NFL teams win or lose and draft prospects shine or hide.

After concluding Week 3 of the 2016 season, you may think it’s a little early for a 2017 mock draft. But NFL scouting departments are hard at work, looking for the best NFL Draft prospects. So we might as well stay hard at work with them.

Plus thanks to the schedule, NFL teams have already had their needs exposed. But what makes these mock drafts interesting now is things change from week to week. Of course, each team’s record, most of the basis of the draft order, will change every week.

There will be some injuries both in the NFL and in college football. The ones in the NFL will have an affect on a team’s need while the one’s in college could affect who comes out. There are so many possibilities and going week to week should cover most of them.

Turn the page to see this week’s mock draft.

Sep 17, 2016; Boone, NC, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) goes behind center Nick Linder (68) during the second quarter against the Appalachian State Mountaineers at Kidd Brewer Stadium. Miami defeated App State 45-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Kaaya

QB, Miami

The NFL, especially the Cleveland Browns, are taking note of that and will carry that into the draft in May. At 6’4″, 210 pounds, Brad Kaaya is thin but he’s the ideal, prototypical pocket passer NFL teams want. Kaaya is smart and from a pro style offense, where he has a lot of responsibility at the line of scrimmage.

He reads defenses, gets his team into the right play and changes protections when need be. Once the play starts, he has no problems going at least three-deep into his progressions and throwing with anitcipation. As far as arm talent goes, Kaaya has a big arm to cut through the inclement weather in the AFC North.

He also has pleny of touch and accuracy to fit footballs into tight windows and has the stats to back it up. On deep balls, he has completed 41 percent with three times as many TDs as INTs. So the Browns pick Kaaya No. 1 overall and head coach Hue Jackson has the quarerback to start his turnaround.

Sep 24, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) carries against the Auburn Tigers during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

Perhaps he’s not the guy that can handle putting an offensive team on his back. So with the defense they have, it’s a good idea to take some of that responsibility away from him. So at No. 2 overall, the Jacksonville Jaguars take superfreak, superstar running back Leonard Fournette.

With his speed, power and elusiveness, Fournette is special and can carry a team with a good defense to a Super Bowl. Of course, Bradley was the defensive coordinator of the Seattle Seahawks’ 2013 Super Bowl team. And he’s trying to create the same type of team he was with during his time in Seattle.

Picking Fournette gives Bradley the Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch element what he’s trying to create. And that defense is sure to hold up their end of the bargain if they’re not on the field all day. So with this pick, the Jaguars move up the standings like they were supposed to this year.

Sep 24, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws in the fourth quarter against the Duke Blue Devils at Notre Dame Stadium. Duke won 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

DeShone Kizer

QB, Nortre Dame

So at No. 3 overall, the Bears select DeShone Kizer to rebuild their offense around. Equipped with everything you want in a quarterback prospect, Kizer is about as intriguing as they get. He has a huge arm, accuracy and his Spread Offense backround shows that he can run as well.

But don’t get him confused for a Spread Offense quarerterback, he runs a pro style offense too. Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly has an NFL background and only recently started using the Spread Offense. So Kizer plays the game like a pro, changing protections and plays as well as going through progressions,

He also throws with anticipation into tight windows and has good poise in the pocket. At 6’5″, 230 pounds, he’s also a big man that can take the punishment the NFL has to offer quarterbacks. If the Bears can get an offensive line together, they might go somewhere after making this pick.

Sep 17, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Texas A&M Aggies lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Auburn Tigers quarterback Sean White (13) during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Myles Garrett

EDGE, Texas A&M

Multiple injuries have a big role in just how bad the Saints defense is these days. DT Sheldon Rankins, the team’s 2016 first-round pick, is out for the season along with OLB Hau’oli Kikhaha. So he Saints can’t put any pressure on opposing quarterbacks so far this season.

But even if they were both healthy, the Saints can use another guy to come in and rush off the edge. So at No. 4 overall, the Saints Select Myles Garrett to give their pass rush a shot in the arm. Garrett is by far the best edge rusher prospect in the draft and may be the best football player coming out.

At 6’5″, 262 pounds Garrett has the size, length and burst off the edge to make opposing quarterbacks uncomfortable. And the Saints need that with the quarterbacks they have to play against in the NFC South. The Saints have a fighting chance in this division with Garrett in the fold.

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

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

And they sacked him five times while forcing four interceptions out of him. It’s easy to put the blame on Palmer for the interceptions he threw but he was not helped by the protection he got Sunday. As a matter of fact, the Cardinals haven’t helped Palmer much at all in the way of protecton.

The edges of the offensvie line are definitely a problem with the Cardinals at this time. Left tackle Jared Veldheer his just another guy and D.J. Humphries is devil awful. So with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Cardinals select Cam Robinson.

From there, Veldheer can slide over to the right side, where he’s better suited so Robinson can play left tackle. Or you can make Veldheer and Robinson compete and the loser plays on the right side. Either way, the Cardinals offensive line will improve as a result of this pick.

Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) is sacked by Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) during the 1st half game of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Malik McDowell

DE, Michigan State

We’ll see how well the rest of the season works out for him as he continues to play that way. If Ryan, is still the head coach in 2017, he will undoubtedly add to his defense. So with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, he selects Malik McDowell to make that defense scary.

OLB Jerry Hughes is playing extremely well with tree sacks coming off the edge already. And around Week 7, the Bills will finally get to see what first-round pick Shaq Lawson can do. And next year, the team will get ILB Reggie Ragland back to solidify the middle of that defense.

Bringing in McDowel, an athletic freak for someone so big and strong, will improve the Bills interior pass rush. When that happens, it’s going to be awfully hard to move the ball and score on them. The Bills already have one of the best secondaries in the NFL and they’ll have the front-seven to match.

Sep 23, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) rushes against Utah Utes defensive back Brian Allen (14) during the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Juju Smith-Schuster

WR, USC

And even without Eric Weddle, the Chargers have themselves a solid secondary. On offense, running back Melvin Gordon is starting to be what I thought he would be in year two. Finding quarterback Philip Rivers a reliable target on third down will be the mission for the Chargers in 2017.

Keenan Allen is a great receiver when healthy and is schedued to be ready to play next season. But playing nine of you last possible 32 games does not make you a reliable player. So with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers select JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Regarless of his lack of numbers this year, Smith Schuster is still the best reciever in this year’s draft. It’s not his fault that USC has two wack quarterbacks trying to replace Cody Kessler, now with the Browns. And no one knows that better than the Chargers who are right down the street from him.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers quarterback Tyler Ferguson (7) tries to get away from Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Dakota Ball (44) and defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Tide defeated the Hilltoppers 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Allen

DT, Alabama

The Green Bay Packers are known for their solid secondary but Marvin Jones went for over 200 yards on them. I didn’t think Jones would turn out to be this good but playing with A.J. Green can do that to you. There just aren’t enough footballs to go around but now, we’re seeing his potential as a No. 1 receiver.

What the Lions haven’t replaced from their playoff teams is the wall consisting of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairly. In the 2016 NFL Draft, they replaced Fairly with run-stuffing defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson. All they need now is a penetrator on the other side to assume Suh’s role.

So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Lions select Jonathan Allen, who has the speed and quickness to penetrate. The Lions would then control the line of scrimmage on the defensive side of the ball. And they would have a fighting chance in the tough NFC North division they play in.

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end DeMarcus Walker (44) sacks Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Florida State Seminoles defeated the Mississippi Rebels 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

DeMarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

That bottom of the league means the top of the draft so here they are at No. 10 overall. They could get a running back to replace Frank Gore here but after the Trent Richardson fiasco, probably not. The Colts need an interior defensive lineman that can rush the passer to go with Erik Walden off the edge.

So with their No. 10 overall pick, they select DeMarcus Walker, who can do that and play the run very well. In 2015, he broke out with a team-best 15.5 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks and four forced fumbles, sharing the team’s lead. Then he went back for his senior year to prove that it wasn’t a fluke.

And boy is he off to a terrific start at that with second-in-the-FBS 5.5 sacks in just four games. The secondary isn’t too bad so this pick would help tremendously. And if they could get it together protecting Luck, the Colts can get back up on top in the AFC South.

Sep 24, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) drops back to pass under pressure from Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Roquan Smith (3) during the first quarter of the game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

Chad Kelly

QB, Ole' Miss

He has even gone on record with the media supporting what he’s doing with the national anthem. But there’s something about Kaepernick not playing while Gabbert stinks that doesn’t sit right. So now, I’m living under the assumption that the 49ers don’t have the quarterback they want right now.

I’ll at least do so until Kaepernick, who has proven that he’s better than Gabbert already, sees the field. So as of right now, I have the 49ers taking a quarterback when the draft comes in may. And that quarterback will be none other than DeShaun Watson, the king of the Spread Offense quarterbacks.

The quarterback prospects the last few years, give me little reason to believe in Spread quarterbacks transitioning to the NFL. It takes to long to get them to the point where they can lead a team out of darkness. But the 49ers run the Spread offense so Watson is an immediate impact in San Francisco.

Nov 8, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (5) intercepts a pass intended for Vanderbilt Commodores receiver Caleb Scott (9) during the second half at Vanderbilt Stadium. The Gators won 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

That front-seven over there gets after the quarterback with nine sacks to tie them for fourth in the NFL. The Dolphins just need to tighten up that secondary so they can get even more sacks. Byron Maxwell looks more like a one-hit wonder every game and Xavien Howard is no better.

If the Dolphins addressed the cornerback position, it would be the start of a shut-down pass defense. So with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Dolphins select Jalen Tabor. With Joe Haden and Vernon Hargreaves before him, Tabor is looking to keep the cornerback tradition alive over there.

And if he does and the run defense straightens itself out, that defense would be a shut-down unit period. The offense is loaded with weapons so they could do the job with the shut-down defense on the other side. Then then dare I say the Dolphins could make the AFC East a little interesting to watch.

Sep 24, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Delaware State Hornets quarterback Daniel Epperson (11) throws a pass while being pressured by Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) during the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Charles Harris

DE, Missouri

Speaking of the Rams, that’s one heck of a defense to have such numbers on, proving the offense is great. The Buccaneers need to do something about rushing the passer if they’re going to win. They give up only 3.5 yards per carry on the ground while the secondary is okay but can use a pass rush.

Vernon Hargreaves, the team’s 2016 1st-round pick, will come around and be sharpened up by Week 10. DT Gerald McCoy deserves to play with a quality edge rusher so he can taste what real defensive domination is. So with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Buccaneers select Charles Harris.

Harris has a nice get-off, plenty of burst and a variety of pass-rush moves. He can spin both ways, bull-rush and hit you with a violent slap-and-rip move. With this pick, the Buccaneers become playoff-bound, no longer worried about losing games they score 32 points in.

Sep 17, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) and Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Damore

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

They have a soid run defense and put constant pressure on the quarterback, allowing a rating of 76.4. That defense is also opportunistic, creating turnovers and flipping the field. However, this defense does have one weakness in it and it’s none other than cornerback Perrish Cox.

In a close game, all opposing teams have to do is throw at Cox and they will get the win. If the Titans had a solid cornerback on the other side of Jascon McCourty they could really shut some teams down. So with the No 13 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Titans select Marlon Humphrey.

Humphrey is ready to go in and ball from Day 1 so the defense will mover further up the rankings. Then the score would be held down even more for the offense to do a little something to win the game. They would challege for the AFC South title if Mariota can get it together by next year.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) throws Western Kentucky Hilltoppers quarterback Mike White (14) to the ground and receives a roughing the passer call for the play at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

But they won’t go looking for a quarterback in the draft as they like that Christian Hackenberg kid. I do too and think he’ll be ready to take over the positon after recovering from what Penn State did to him. Head coach Todd Bowles is a defensive guy that loves to get after opposing quarterbacks.

And if he had good edge rusher, the Jets would get after opposing quarterbacks even better than they do. So with the No. 15 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Jets select Tim Williams. A guy like Williams would make the the Jets harder to throw on and add years to Darrelle Revis’ career.

He is extremely explosive off the snap and has all the burst off the edge he needs. He has some surprising power too and has improved to round himself out as more of and every-down player. That’s all well and good but the Jets are bringing Williams in to mainly rush the passer.

Nov 28, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Bryan Cox (94) rushes as Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Roderick Johnson (77) blocks during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida State Seminoles defeated the Florida Gators 27-2. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Roderick Johnson

OT, Florida State

But their issues protecting quarterback Cam Newton are holding him and the passing game back. Newton isn’t very efficient these days with five touchdowns, five interceptions and a quarterback rating of 78. Not protecting Newton leads to the offense leaving the field after three plays too often.

Then the Panters defense isn’t even as effective as they have to stay on the field all day. All the while, the offense isn’t scoring points and that’s a recipe for losing games. So at No. 16 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Panthers select left tackle Roderick Johnson from Florida State.

At 6’7″, 310 pounds, Johnson’s combination of size, strength and athleticism make him a great left tackle propect. He protected the blind side of Winston at Florida State as a freshman. And he fits right in with the Panthers’ the ground game because he is a dominant run blocker.

Oct 3, 2015; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) during the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Camp Randall Stadium. Iowa won 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

T.J. Watt

DE, Wisconsin

So they must find another edge rusher to go with Carlos Dunlap and defensive tackle Geno Smith. So with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Bengals select T.J. Watt from Wisconsin. Yes, he is the brother of J.J. Watt so this pick is going to sound a bit like nepotism.

But nepotism has existed throughout the NFL since the first family member of a great player came along. And all you have to do is look at the Mannings and Matthews to see it works out most of the time. But this isn’t about just nepotism, Watt can play and there is plenty of statistical evidence.

Watt is tied for second in the FBS in sacks with four from his 3-4 OLB spot. And to think he just started playing defense last year after starting out as a TE, just like his brother. He’s already a technically sound pass rusher, who at 6’5″, 240 pounds, can put on weight to play 4-3 DE .

Sep 12, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Hawaii Warriors quarterback Max Wittek (13) is tackled by Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Tyquan Lewis (59) and linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) in the second half of the game at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State beat Hawaii 38-0. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

And the right pick for the Giants here in the situaion is ILB Raekwon McMillian from Ohio State. McMillan at 6’2″, 240 pounds, he is a physical regulator an NFL team needs in the middle of their defense. He takes on guards, fullbacks, whoever wants to get it in with him and will punish the ball carrier.

He’s also a film junkie that studies his fair share of tape, allowing him to quicly diagnose plays. However, McMillan isn’t one-dimentional, he can more than handle his business with tight ends in man coverage. He’s also comfortable in zone and he uses his awareness to clog throwing lanes.

From Sam Huff to Harry Carson to Antonio Peirce, the Giants have won Super Bowls with great ILBs. Picking McMillian would continue the Giants’ tradition of having players like that on the team. And with the rest of the team they have, it might bring back another Super Bowl title.

Oct 10, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) prepares to hit Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Brandon Allen (10) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Nose tackle Dan Williams needs to hurry up and play his way back into shape because Justin Ellis isn’t working. And even worse than that, the Raiders have the two worst inside linebackers in the NFL right now. There’s no reason for anyone to wonder why the Raiders are giving up 5.1 yards per carry.

They’re also getting gashed pretty badly in the passing game by opposing tight ends. The running game and the tight end are both responsibilities of a MIKE linebacker so they better get one. Reuben Foster is the guy the Raiders decide to go with here at No. 19 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft.

The Raiders once had a tradition for being among the most physical teams in the NFL. And head coach Jack Del Rio is bringing that back, starting with the offensive and defensive lines. Picking Foster gives the Raiders a physical presence that can cover tight ends in the middle.

Adoree Jackson

CB, USC

The problem these days is the defense, especially the No. 23 rated pass defense. They have no pass rush to speak of right now but will get DeMarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory back this year. So the rush should be fine while they probably should invest in the coverage for 2017.

So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Cowboys select cornerback Adoree Jackson from USC. Owner Jerry Jones and his Cowboys love them some atheletes and Jackson is a world-class athlete. He just missed a spot on the US Olympic Team in Rio this year as a long jumper.

But Jackson isn’t just an athlete, he’s a darn good football player as a cornerback and return man. He uses his blazing speed in the return game and to keep from getting beat deep in coverage. In 2017, barring more suspensions, the Cowboys defense becomes a solid unit and the team can win something.

Sep 24, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

The defense is supposed to be better too as Clay Matthews III moved back to outside linebacker, his natural position. So he’s free to disrupt opposing quarterbacks with Julius Peppers for a solid secondary. Again, they are 2-1 but lost to a quarterback that hasn’t been there two weeks at the time.

The Packers are getting to the passer and stopping the run but the secondary isn’t what is was last year. But they’re not old so it’s a safe bet that they’ll get that together before too long. The biggest thing now is that Aaron Rodgers hasn’t been himself at all so far this year,

Another weapon like a TE in the passing game would make him more comfortable than he has been. So here at No. 21 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Packers selct O.J. Howard. His size and athleticism make him a matchup nightmare for anyone on a defense so Rodger returns to form.

Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) rolls out of the pocket in the fourth quarter of their game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Tigers won 26-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

DeShaun Watson

QB, Clemson

I’ve never believed in him but since I can alway change if I want, I’ll leave him alone for now. So that takes me to starting quarterback Alex Smith, who’s not bad but has his limitations. With the team the Chiefs have, at best, they will stay relevant but won’t to go a Super Bowl with Smith.

If the Denver Broncos hadn’t found their quarterback, that would be the team he could win a Super Bowl with. Smith just isn’t the guy to put a team on his back and lift them to Super Bowl contender status. But the Chiefs couldn’t ask for a better gatekeeper until that guy arrives in Kansas City.

So with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Chiefs select quarterback DeShaun Watson from Clemson. Spread quarterbacks usually take a while to adjust to the pro game so Smith will start at first. But once he’s ready, Watson has the upside to excell under head coach Andy Reid’s tutelage.

Sep 4, 2016; Austin, TX, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Sam Mustipher (53) and offensive lineman Quenton Nelson (56) and offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) during the game against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Nortre Dame

Wilson is getting pressured, hit and sacked way too much so he’s not playing as well as he usually does. Hence, the Seahawks scored only three points in a 9-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2. Wilson could end up not making it through the year if the Seahawks don’t protect him better.

And most teams that don’t protect their quarterback lose the game or end up bad that season. It’s obviously too late to make any personnel improvements on the offensive line now. But at least 2016 second-round pick Germain Ifedi will be back to take care of the guard position.

So improve at the left tackle position, the Seahawks select Mike McGlinchey with the No. 23 overall pick. At 6’7″, 310 McGlinchey isn’t gifted with the feet Laremy Tunsil has but is a solid technician. He also fits in the Seahawks zone scheme as about as good as he can get at No. 23.

Oct 17, 2015; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) intercepts a pass intended for Northwestern Wildcats wide receiver Christian Jones (14) during the first quarter at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Desmond King

CB, Iowa

And behind them, the Steelers aren’t defending the pass very well either with only the Raiders doing worse. I know they just drafted cornerback Artie Burns in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft but could use another. The Sun is setting on veteran cornerback William Gay’s career and there’s nothing special there.

So at No. 24 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Steelers select cornerback Desmond King from Iowa. Burns is a man-press cornerback so pairing him up with another man-press cornerback is a good idea. King has light feet, fluid change of direction, a quick backpedal and transitions smoothly to keep up on vertical routes.

He also has great route anticipation, breaks on to the ball well and ball-skills to intercept passes. King is a physical cornerback in bump-and-run coverage and in coming up in run support. If he goes in and balls right away with Burns and Dupree get it together, the Steel Curtain is back!

Oct 24, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) under pressure from Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Barnett

EDGE, Tennessee

Running back Devonta Freeman, with his No. 24 and all, looked like he had some “Beastmode” in him. He “Lynched” (pushed him to the turf) defensive back Sterling Moore on a 10-yard run Monday night. But the Falcons can’t stop anyone, especially not the pass because they can’t get afer the quarterback.

They have a decent secondary with cornerback Desmond Truphant an safety Keanu Neal. They tried freak athlete Vic Beasley at LEO but he was too small so they moved him to outside linebacker. And right now Dwight Freeney, at 36 years of age, is the team’s edge rusher.

So at No. 25 overall, the Falcons select Derek Barnett from Tennessee to assume the role. At 6’3″, 260 pounds Barnett has more lead in his behind than Beasley and the agility for occasional coverage. From there, the Falcons are on their way if they can stop the run.

Sep 10, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; UCF Knights running back Dontravious Wilson (7) rushes chased by Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Michigan won 51-14. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

But the more likely end to this story is the Texans have lost Watt for the rest of the season. And if he’s not there, there isn’t anyone to pick up that kind of sack production. I know the idea is to be hopeful but if you’re looking for Jadeveon Clowney to do so, forget it!

If Clowney can’t sack the quarterback with Watt getting triple-teams, there’s no way he goes on a tear now. But there’s always next year, which is what this mock draft is about. With Watt and the front-seven back, the Texans look to sure up the secondary.

So at No. 26 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Texans select safety Jabrill Peppers from Michigan. Peppers will go in and give the Texans what they need out of that strong safety spot right away. He’s also a good return man so we’ll see if the Texans allow him to set up field position.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; USC USC Trojans offensive tackle Chad Wheeler (72) in action during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Chad Wheeler

OT, USC

The Buccaneers defense is like a big, wet paper bag that you can run through like it’s nothing. If there was a time to play 2016 No. 1 overall Jared Goff, it would have been against the Buccaneers. But I see why he didn’t because you can’t trust that offensive line to protect the quarterback against anyone.

So for any Rams fans out there that are anxious to see Goff, patience is a virtue in this case. I know you see what Carson Wentz is doing over there in Philadelphia but he has great protection. If you throw a rookie quarterback in there with the Rams offensive line, you may not ever get him back.

So Goff can sit and learn this year then the Rams can address their offensive line this offseason. And they start at the left tackle positon in the first round with Chad Wheeler from USC. He is a big upgrade over the turnstile that is Greg Robinson right now and even more so in 2017.

Sep 3, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; UC Davis Aggies linebacker Brady Stibi (52) holds on to Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) as Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) crosses the goal line in the first half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

Royce Freeman

RB, Oregon

Speedster Mike Wallace started the season pretty well but has since gone back into the hole. And after one big play in the season-opener, 2015 first-round pick Breshad Perriman hasn’t done Jack. And the running game has been even worse with Justin Forsett looking like a one-hit wonder.

After rushing for over 1,200 yards in 2014, he has completely fallen off the map, especially this year. I guess that’s why the Ravens cut him and brought him back cheaper after giving him a big contract. So at No. 28 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Ravens select running back Royce Freeman from Oregon.

At 5’11”, 230 pounds, Freeman has speed to burn and is elusive as a scat-back in the open field. But don’t get in twisted, he has the power that a man of his build should have. With this pick, the Ravens have a physical running game to rest the defense to go with the deep ball.

Tre'Davious White

CB, LSU

Head coach Doug Pederson switched the defensive scheme from the 3-4 to the 4-3. And defensive end Brandon Ingram his flourishing in the move back to his natural 4-3 end position. So is Fletcher Cox, moving to the 4-3 three-technique from 3-4 end, putting mad heat on opposing quarterbacks.

And there is a lot of offensive talent around Wentz, including a great pass-blocking offensive line. Tight end Brent Celek and receivers Jordan Matthews and Nelson Agholor are very talented weapons to throw to. Then you have running back Ryan Mathews, who’s solid when healthy and Darren Sproles, who can catch and run.

The one weakness on their team that’s being covered by the pass rush is the cornerback positon. So at No. 29 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Eagles select cornerback Tre’Davious White from LSU. Addressing this weakness will help the Eagles do some serious damage in the playoffs next year.

Sep 24, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) runs the ball past UCLA Bruins linebacker Cameron Judge (4) during the second half at Rose Bowl. The Stanford Cardinal won 22-13. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

Christian McCaffrey

RB/KR, Stanford

But he has to come off the field when the it’s 3rd-and-short and when there’s pass protection involved. Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots already have LeGarrett Blount so he takes care of 3rd-and-short. He’s also the guy Belichick wants to run the ball and rest the defense with.

But that doesn’t mean McCaffrey has to come off the field often because he’ll have multiple roles with Belichik. He’ll have the role Danny Woodhead had, catching passes out of the backfield and running draws. McCaffrey will also line up out wide and in the slot with quarterback Tom Brady dinking and dunking.

Most of the yards that Brady throws for these days comes from running after the catch. And McCaffrey is a master of picking up those precious yards after the catch on short passes. And of course, he will set the Patriots up with good field position in the return game.

Nov 1, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive lineman Adam Bisnowaty (69) blocks at the line of scrimmage against Duke Blue Devils defensive end Jordan DeWalt-Ondijo (94) during the first quarter at Heinz Field. The Blue Devils won 51-48 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Adam Bisnowaty

OT, Pittsburgh

And at the same time, the Vikings have proven that they can beat a team like the Panthers without him. Quarterback Sam Bradford is now showing what he can do with a decent cast around him. And he now has a great one, which is why he beat the Packers in less than two weeks with the team.

The defense he has is special so he doesn’t always have to light the scoreboard up. But when he has to, he can as he has a solid receiver corps, featuring Sephon Diggs. The only thing there is to worry about with the Vikings is Bradford getting injured, especially with their offensive line.

So in 2017, the Vikings start at left tackle at No. 31 overall with Adam Bisnowaty from Pittsburgh. He’s physical and strong enough to win in the trenches and athletic and coordinated enough to stop quick-twitched pass rushers. So he’ll help Peterson and Bradford do what they do in 2017.

Nov 7, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Utah Utes defensive tackle Lowell Lotulelei (93) sacks Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Lowell Lotulelei

DT, Utah

He sat and waited his turn last year while learning how to prepare from one of the best to ever do it. And now, he’s getting his chance to see just how good he can be with better circumstances. He has Demarious Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders at the receivers and C.J Anderson at running back just like Manning did.

But Siemian has a much better offensive line than Manning did with Russell Okung now at left tackle. The defense did lose a couple of players but don’t get it twisted, they can still shut a team down. Next year, the Broncos look to replace run-stuffing defensive tackle Malik Jackson, now with he Jaguars.

So with the last pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the Broncos select Utah’s Lowell Lotulelei. And he goes in and plays the run-stuffing 3-4 end role as he is particularly strong against the run. Then we will get to see if the Broncos can go out there and win another Super Bowl.