Players with an asterik are underclassmen
Shamelessly stolen from /u/rdogg1026 from /r/nfl.
1.) Cleveland Browns
Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama
Let's get this out of the way: No QB in this class is worth the No. 1 pick. The Browns just need more good football players. Allen is a total game-plan wrecker along the defense front (13 tackles for loss, 15 QB hurries). Texas A&M pass-rusher Myles Garrett also figures to be in the mix here.
2.) San Francisco 49ers
Myles Garrett, DE/OLB, Texas A&M*
Considering the lack of elite QB/WR talent in this class, the 49ers would be thrilled to see Garrett fall to them at No. 2. Tied with LSU RB Leonard Fournette for my best grade in this class, Garrett is the most disruptive pass-rusher in college football, with 21 sacks and 20 QB hurries in 23 games the past two seasons.
3.) Jacksonville Jaguars
Jamal Adams, S, LSU*
Assuming he leaves school early, Adams will be one of the most complete players in this draft. He can stuff the run as an in-the-box safety, he can cover and he's a great leader to bring into your locker room. The Jaguars need to continue to invest resources in their secondary.
4.) Chicago Bears
Jabrill Peppers, S/OLB, Michigan*
The Bears are another team likely to be in the market for a QB this offseason without a good option at the top of the draft. Peppers would make sense, given Chicago's lack of difference-makers in the secondary. He's a true hybrid player, with the speed and athleticism to thrive in space and the toughness to play bigger than his 205-pound frame.
5.) Tennessee Titans (from Rams)
Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State*
The Titans have the good fortune of not needing to even consider a quarterback with the pick they received in the Jared Goff trade. Lattimore could use some more game experience, but if he leaves Columbus early, CB-needy teams such as the Titans could be enticed by the natural talent he has displayed on the perimeter in his first year as a starter.
6.) New York Jets
Tim Williams, OLB, Alabama
Williams is disruptive -- if a little inconsistent -- with excellent first-step quickness off the edge. Nearly all of his tackles for loss this season came against SEC opponents (14 of the 15.5 total). A pass-rusher could very well be near the top of the Jets' needs by the time April rolls around.
7.) Carolina Panthers
Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU*
Fournette hasn't budged from the No. 1 spot in my prospect rankings all season. He is a rare talent for the position, the best college running back I've evaluated since Adrian Peterson in 2007. And though he has been hampered by an ankle injury all season, he has put up off-the-charts production when healthy. It would be great value for the Panthers if Fournette were to fall out of the top five.
8.) New Orleans Saints
Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama*
At 6-foot-1, 196 pounds, Humphrey has ideal size for the cornerback position. He has 27 games of experience against high-level competition in his career, racking up five interceptions and 12 pass breakups. The Saints need to continue to add pieces to their defense, particularly in the secondary.
9.) Cleveland Browns (from Eagles)
Takkarist McKinley, OLB, UCLA
Taking the versatile Jonathan Allen with the No. 1 overall pick would allow the Browns to target McKinley with the second of their first-round picks. The UCLA pass-rusher has elite speed off the edge, which has helped make him one of the biggest draft risers this season (18.0 tackles for loss 10.0 sacks in 11 games). Florida State RB Dalvin Cook could also be in the conversation here for an offense that will be looking for more home run hitters.
10.) San Diego Chargers
Mike Williams, WR, Clemson*
At 6-foot-3, Williams profiles as a legitimate No. 1 weapon at the next level. He shows an excellent ability to create late separation when the ball is in the air, scoring 10 touchdowns this season. Coming off a scary neck injury to open the 2015 campaign, Williams has done it all for the Tigers in his return to the field.
11.) Arizona Cardinals
Reuben Foster, ILB, Alabama
A tackling machine who flies to the ball, Foster shows a good combination of agility and speed for a 240-pounder. He's one of the 10 best players in this class, but positional value could cause him to slip a little bit. QB is also a possibility for Arizona, given Carson Palmer's age (37) and declining play.
12.) Cincinnati Bengals
Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee*
Barnett's production was outstanding in his first two seasons at Tennessee, but he has taken it to another level in 2016 with an SEC-leading 12.0 sacks. He has good size (6-3, 265) and agility and a consistent motor. The Bengals need more speed at defensive end and linebacker.
13.) Indianapolis Colts
Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama*
Andrew Luck has been constantly under siege behind an offensive line that is still searching for answers. So whether it's in the first round or in free agency, the Colts need to devote resources to protect Luck and improve the run game. Robinson isn't an elite pass-blocker, but he's a plug-and-play right tackle who can develop at the next level.
14.) Buffalo Bills
Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
Ramczyk has just one year of full-time starting experience at the FBS level after transferring from UW-Stevens Points (Division III), but he's loaded with talent. With a long and sturdy frame (6-6, 314), he's very effective in pass protection and as a run-blocker. Cornerback and wide receiver could also be options for the Bills.
15.) Baltimore Ravens
Charles Harris, DE, Missouri*
A twitchy athlete off the edge, Harris led the SEC with 18.5 tackles for loss in 2015 and finished this season with 5.5 sacks and six QB hurries in his final four games. He has tons of raw ability as a pass-rusher, and Baltimore needs to continue to add youth off the edge with Terrell Suggs turning 35 next season.
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16.) Miami Dolphins
O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Lucky for teams like the Dolphins who have a need at the position, this is a loaded class with tight ends at the top. Howard, Michigan's Jake Butt and Virginia Tech's Bucky Hodges all look like top-40 picks. Howard's size-speed combination gives him a lot of upside, but his production has been streaky in Alabama's run-heavy offense.
17.) Tennessee Titans
John Ross, WR, Washington*
Ross has always had great speed, but he improved his route running this year and saw immediate dividends with a 17-touchdown season. If he runs as fast as expected at the NFL combine, he could very well be a first-rounder.
18.) Philadelphia Eagles (from Vikings)
Teez Tabor, CB, Florida*
Tabor has terrific ball skills, with four interceptions, five pass breakups and a defensive TD in 11 games this season -- and that comes on the heels of a 2015 season in which he had four interceptions and 14 pass breakups. Tabor's natural anticipation skills would fill a big need for the Eagles.
19.) Houston Texans
Carl Lawson, OLB, Auburn*
Not many pass-rushers in this class can match Lawson's combination of production, upside and intangibles. He's a film junkie who posted an astounding 24 QB hurries and nine sacks this season. Plus, he's an elite run defender. Lawson's medical reports will be critical; he endured back-to-back injury-plagued seasons in 2014 and 2015.
20.) Green Bay Packers
Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State*
Yes, I know GM Ted Thompson has never drafted a running back this high, but there's no doubt the Packers need more explosive playmakers like Cook, who ranks tied for second among all Power 5 RBs this season with 15 touches of 25 yards or more. It would be good value to get a top-10 player at this stage of the first round.
21.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Malik McDowell, DT, Michigan State*
McDowell has supreme talent, and he can be a menace as an inside rusher when he's locked in. But McDowell could fall a bit, because he's not the consistent grinder that typically comes out of Michigan State. Tampa will be in the market for more pass-rushers.
22). Washington Redskins
JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, USC*
Watching Smith-Schuster's tape, it's clear that he loves the game and works hard. He's not a burner by any stretch, but his good size (6-2, 220), ball skills and toughness will keep him in the first-round mix for teams with a need at the position, such as Washington, which could lose Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson to free agency.
23). Denver Broncos
Caleb Brantley, DT, Florida*
Brantley can be a load to handle in the run game, as he showed in back-to-back games this season against LSU and Florida State (five tackles for loss). His combination of quickness and functional strength would make him a good fit for the Broncos, who will be looking for help along the D-line this offseason.
24). Detroit Lions
Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
Davis finds so many ways to affect a game. He makes plays in the backfield (six tackles for loss and five QB hurries) and is athletic enough to hold up in coverage. Davis' game is similar to that of Bucs OLB Kwon Alexander because of his excellent range and a relentless motor.
25.) New York Giants
D'Onta Foreman, RB, Texas*
Foreman is one of the most underrated prospects in this class. You can tell by looking at him that he's a load to bring down (6-1, 249), but what makes him special are his quick feet. Foreman, who led the FBS in rushing this season with 2,028 yards, also has some ability as a blocker and pass-catcher.
26.) Pittsburgh Steelers
Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
If you were watching the Michigan-Ohio State game, you might've noticed Charlton's game-wrecking ability (2.5 sacks). He was Michigan's best pass-rusher this season (nine sacks in 10 games). He has the versatility to convert to a 3-4 OLB in the Steelers' base defense. Jarvis Jones and James Harrison are both set to be free agents.
27.) Atlanta Falcons
Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida*
I haven't done as much tape on Wilson as I have on his teammate Teez Tabor, but some scouts I've talked to think Wilson's ceiling is higher. At 6-foot-1, he has a good length/speed combination, and he's experienced, with 38 games played, including 23 starts. The Falcons need to find a way to bolster their secondary and defensive line.
28.) Oakland Raiders
Jourdan Lewis, CB, Michigan
Lewis has some size limitations (5-11, 186), which makes him a bit of a reach here, but he's the best pure cover corner in college football. He had two interceptions and 10 pass breakups, despite opponents often shying away from throwing to his side of the field. The Raiders' secondary has been an issue this season as they continue to rebuild the defense.
29.) Seattle Seahawks
Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame*
McGlinchey has held firm that he's likely to return to school, but for now he's eligible. While he'd benefit from one more year of physical development and technique work, an OT-needy team such as the Seahawks would give McGlinchey a long look because of his length and upside if he decided to leave early.
30.) Kansas City Chiefs
Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina*
Inside linebacker and safety will be bigger needs, but everyone knows how much Andy Reid likes to draft quarterbacks. Trubisky has some red flags as a prospect, including just 12 college starts to his name, but the opportunity to draft a quarterback to sit and develop behind Alex Smith could entice the Chiefs' front office. Trubisky has shown impressive accuracy (68.9 completion percentage) and an ability to limit mistakes (only four turnovers all season).
31.) Dallas Cowboys
Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
The Cowboys will be in the market for defensive line help this offseason; I'm just not sure who will be available this late in the first round. Thomas has good size (6-3, 273) and strength, he's stout against the run and he rushes the QB with quickness and power (13 tackles for loss, seven sacks and seven QB hurries).
32.) New England Patriots
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford*
Bill Belichick and Tom Brady would have fun figuring out creative ways to utilize McCaffrey's versatile skill set. He's a true threat in both the run and pass game, finishing his college career with nearly 4,000 rushing yards and 1,206 receiving yards. He has a rare combination of vision, lateral agility and acceleration, which shows up in the return game, too.
wow all D esp early on. no Qb until pick 30? good thing eagles got wentz last year as teams looking for QB might have to struggle for at least another year!
is peppers really a potential top 5 pick? I know hes good and all but top 5 seems high.
also, 4 RB's in the 1st round? that probably hasn't happened in awhile. I get the mccaffrey to the pats pick, but I think he will be a 2nd or maybe 3rd round pick, I don't see him as a first rounder he's not a feature back. as I have said before I would really want one of these RBs to fall in the 2nd so the eagles can scoop one of them up. my dream is to trade up and get fournette but that is not realistic at this point since I bet he ends up as a top 5 pick after seeing what Elliot has done this year and eagles wont have enough ammunition to trade up in back to back years, but I would also love dalvin cook. maybe he slips into the 2nd with all these other backs in the draft but I bet he is a late round 1st right around where the eagles are picking. START LOSING MORE VIKINGS!
26.) Pittsburgh Steelers
Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
If you were watching the Michigan-Ohio State game, you might've noticed Charlton's game-wrecking ability (2.5 sacks). He was Michigan's best pass-rusher this season (nine sacks in 10 games). He has the versatility to convert to a 3-4 OLB in the Steelers' base defense. Jarvis Jones and James Harrison are both set to be free agents.
even though its so early, and i havent even peaked at CFB prospects yet, I absolutely love this for the steelers for 2 reasons:
No chance of either Dalvin or Leonard Fish, I'll put money down right now that they're both gone before 15. I can believe the 4 RB's in the first round, it's actually a reallllly good year for them. Personally I'm man crushing hard on Corey Davis out of Western Michigan, that dude is a monster. Him-Odell-Sheppard would just be sooooooo sexy.
DREAM scenario for the Giants;
1)Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan
2)Nick Chubb, RB Georgia
3)Jake Butt, TE Michigan
haha you want another WR?? they already have enough that they cant get cruz any looks.
and you think cook is DEF top 15? I know no chance lenoard falls out of the top 10 (maybe not even top 5) but I think cook can fall to the eagles first rounder which will be in the 15-20 range.
All i keep hearing about Cook is he's Jamaal Charles 2.0, so yes I do..... Cruz is washed up sadly, he really shouldnt be on the field anymore, one of our younger WRs should be getting his snaps.
id say cook around 18 is about right. unless there is a run on RBs similar to the WRs last year. but look none of the the WR did ****! of course rb is an easier transition but i dont get all the WR in the first round selections. look at tredwell, or docson, or coleman... or ahgalor, or dorsett, or perriman, or kevin white or devin smith (who?) the year before. these guys have had 1-2 years and still cant compete. maybe im spoiled as a steelers fan, but WR can be found in any round and arent worth a first round selection -- the coopers and beckhams are exceptions but NYG aint picking that high.
like i said, i know a bit about these big names but not many else - and im looking at defense for the steelers. give me anyone with a DE or OLB designation and im good. artie burns and sean davis are playing better than any rookies ive seen in pittsburgh defense in a long time and the secondary has qucikly become pretty damn good. need some front 7 and steelers have a ton of freedom otherwise.
1)Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan 2)Nick Chubb, RB Georgia 3)Jake Butt, TE Michigan
I wasn't expecting this:
Georgia running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel announced on Thursday that they plan to return for their senior seasons in 2017, instead of entering this spring's NFL draft.
maybe. I'm sure his injury had a lot to do with it as well and wanted another year to prove hes 100% healthy. I feel most injured backs do the opposite and come out the second they can to get paid when they rehab but I guess he thought it would hurt his draft stock too much
1) Cleveland Browns
*Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
Garrett is the top prospect on my Big Board, and he's a premier pass-rushing talent who had 32.5 sacks in three seasons for the Aggies. The Browns are in the beginning stages of a rebuild, and Garrett would be a foundational piece. Keep an eye on a potential trade down from Cleveland, though, as it did last year out of the No. 2 spot. The Browns want to keep acquiring picks. They could also fall in love with one of the talented but green quarterbacks.
2) San Francisco 49ers
*Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
This isn't a strong draft for quarterbacks. Trubisky is the best QB in the draft, but he's only No. 16 on my Big Board. He has only one season of collegiate starting experience, completing 68.2 percent of his passes with 30 touchdown passes and six interceptions. The 49ers still don't have a general manager or coach, and Colin Kaepernick could be on his way out.
3) Chicago Bears
Jonathan Allen, DL, Alabama
Allen, who had 22.5 sacks over the past two seasons, could play defensive end or defensive tackle in the NFL. Positional flexibility is a big selling point, and he'd likely play end in the Bears' 3-4 in this scenario. He was one of the best players in college football in 2016. The Bears had a disappointing 2016 season and have needs across the board, including at quarterback, safety and potentially receiver, depending on what happens with free agent Alshon Jeffery.
4) Jacksonville Jaguars
*Jamal Adams, S, LSU
Adams is built for today's NFL as a versatile safety who can play in the box effectively, make tackles against the run and move to the edges and track slot receivers. Jacksonville hit on a couple of defenders in the 2016 draft (Jalen Ramsey and Yannick Ngakoue; Myles Jack is still an unknown), but the Jags need more help.
5) Tennessee Titans (from Los Angeles Rams)
*Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
One of the stars in the Tigers' national title game win, Williams finished the season with 98 catches for 1,361 yards and 11 touchdowns. He's the top wideout in this draft. Marcus Mariota could use a deep threat and chain-mover -- Williams was fifth in the country in 2016 with 60 catches that resulted in first downs.
6) New York Jets
**Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Lattimore is another first-year starter who jumped to the top of my cornerback rankings with a stellar season. A hamstring injury limited his time on the field in Columbus in 2014 and 2015. Speed, size (6-foot-1, 190) -- he has all the traits to be a star. Darrelle Revis could be on his way out with the Jets -- or move to safety -- and Lattimore would slide into his spot on Day 1.
7) San Diego Chargers
*Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
This isn't a great class for top-tier blindside protectors, but Robinson is at the top of the list, though I think his best skill -- run-blocking -- means he'd be better as a right tackle at the next level. A three-year starter for the Crimson Tide, he's a known commodity in the NFL. The Chargers ranked in the bottom third of the league in rushing (3.8 yards per carry, 97.9 yards per game) in 2016, and tackles Joe Barksdale and King Dunlap have underwhelmed.
8) Carolina Panthers
*Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
This is really the first spot I see that could be a good fit for Fournette, barring a trade up. He's a special athlete with an incredible combination of size (6-1, 235), speed and power, but he won't get a grade as high as I gave Ezekiel Elliott last year. Elliott went No. 4 in 2016, but backs have been devalued in recent years -- he was the only back taken in the first round. Jonathan Stewart turns 30 this year and averaged only 3.8 yards per carry in 2016.
9) Cincinnati Bengals
**Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Thomas, one of the biggest risers of the year, had eight sacks in 2016. At 6-3, 270, he could move inside and play tackle, too. The Bengals need pass-rushing help -- they had only 33 total sacks in a disappointing 2016 -- and this is a good draft for edge rushers.
10) Buffalo Bills
*Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
I'm a believer in franchises with new head coaches starting fresh with new quarterbacks, and it appears likely the Bills move on from Tyrod Taylor after hiring Sean McDermott. That leaves Buffalo with a huge hole and a top-10 pick to fill it. I wrote last week that I didn't think Watson would get a post-title game draft bounce, but I've heard differently from people around the NFL. Though he had an up-and-down season -- and threw 17 interceptions -- Watson is extremely talented. He's the second quarterback off the board in this projection, ahead of Notre Dame's DeShone Kizer.
11) New Orleans Saints
Reuben Foster, ILB, Alabama
Foster is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. At 6-1, 240 pounds, he has stellar range, runs sideline to sideline and is a complete linebacker. He's a terrific blitzer, too, and recorded five sacks in 2016. The Saints need defensive help -- 2015 first-round pick Stephone Anthony played just 127 defensive snaps this season.
12. Cleveland Browns (from Philadelphia Eagles)
*Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
After picking Myles Garrett No. 1, this would give the Browns two prospects in the top five of my Big Board. Cook is a speedy home run hitter who rushed for 4,464 yards and had 48 total touchdowns in three seasons for the Seminoles. Cleveland also could look at an offensive lineman, cornerback or linebacker.
13) Arizona Cardinals
*Teez Tabor, CB, Florida
Tabor, my No. 2 cornerback, is a playmaker who had eight interceptions -- with three returned for touchdowns -- the past two seasons. Arizona struggled to find a No. 2 corner opposite Patrick Peterson all of 2016, and in Tabor the Cardinals would get a guy who could step in and start on Day 1. Arizona could take a look at a pass-rusher, too, depending on what happens with free agents Calais Campbell and Chandler Jones.
14) Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota Vikings)
*Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida
That Florida secondary was loaded the past few seasons with Wilson, Tabor and 2016 first-round pick Vernon Hargreaves III. Wilson is right there with Tabor on my board. He's a little bigger (6-1, 213) than Tabor (6-0, 201) and has good ball skills and instincts. This is a spot in which the Eagles need immediate help. ** 15) Indianapolis Colts**
Takkarist McKinley, OLB, UCLA
A dominant speed rusher, McKinley gave Pac-12 offensive tackles nightmares in 2016. He took a big leap as a senior with 10 sacks, going from fringe prospect to first-rounder. At 6-2, 240 pounds, he's not huge, but his explosion off the line is suited for today's NFL. Indianapolis needs playmakers on defense, and McKinley is a great fit.
16) Baltimore Ravens
**Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
The Harbaugh connection is interesting here. Who has better intel on Peppers than his college coach, Jim Harbaugh? And Jim's brother, John, is the Ravens' coach. Peppers is a fantastic talent, but he's a tweener and is more of a rover back. He could be an in-the-box safety or linebacker who helps in run support and goes out and covers slot receivers and tight ends. The right team will get creative with him and get a star playmaker.
17) Washington Redskins
**Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Hooker was the best center-field-type safety I saw this season -- he has incredible speed and range and was all over the field for the Buckeyes. He had seven interceptions, three of which he returned for touchdowns. Washington could also have a need at wide receiver, even after taking Josh Doctson in the first round last year. Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson are both free agents. Keep an eye on a pass-rusher here, too.
18) Tennessee Titans
**Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
I've mentioned this before, but 2017 could be the year of the third-year sophomore. Humphrey is the fifth such player I listed in the first round. A hamstring injury slowed him down toward the end of the 2016 season, but he's an outstanding prospect with great size (6-1, 196). The Titans have two first-round picks -- I gave them Mike Williams at No. 5 -- and cornerback should be a spot they target.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
Charlton plays with good leverage for his height (6-5) and has active hands and an incredible wingspan. I'm curious what he'll measure at the combine. He can play on his feet, too, which means he could fit in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. The Bucs took Noah Spence in the second round last year, and he improved in their 4-3 as the season progressed (5.5 sacks). Charlton would be a great pick.
20) Denver Broncos
*Garett Bolles, OT, Utah
Bolles started only one season for the Utes after coming over from a junior college, but he was tremendous. He has nice feet and can drive defenders off the ball at 6-5, 300 pounds. Denver has to get some help at tackle in order to get back on top of an AFC West that features two games every season against Justin Houston, Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa. Russell Okung has a team option at $11.7 million, and Donald Stephenson had a poor first season with the Broncos.
21) Detroit Lions
Tim Williams, OLB, Alabama
Williams (6-4, 250) is a fantastic pass-rushing talent who can be unblockable at times. He had 19.5 sacks the past two seasons. Williams would have to put on some weight to play end in a 4-3, but his talent is undeniable. The Lions were second to last in sacks in 2016 (26), and Ezekiel Ansah had only two after a breakout 2015 season in which he had 14.5. This is a clear need, especially with few pass-rushers available in free agency.
22) Miami Dolphins
Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
As a steady and reliable linebacker with a nose for the football, Davis' versatility stands out. He could play inside or outside linebacker at the next level, though he's not a guy who will get 10 sacks on the outside in a 3-4. He can be an every-down guy.
23) New York Giants
*Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
Picking another tackle would allow the Giants to move 2015 top-10 pick Ereck Flowers over to the right side -- he struggled in 2016. Ramczyk, who has had an amazing path to the NFL, is a 6-6, 314-pound road grader with all the traits of an NFL starter, but he's not a talent on the level of former Badger Joe Thomas (who is?). New York could also target a pass-rusher or tight end (none are off the board so far).
24) Oakland Raiders
*Malik McDowell, DT, Michigan State
How can a team with Khalil Mack rank last in the league in sacks? That happened this season -- he had 11 and the rest of the defense had 14. McDowell had only 7.5 sacks in his career, but the talent is there to produce much more in the NFL. He's a tremendous athlete with a 6-6, 290-pound frame who is still raw. One position to keep an eye on: running back. Latavius Murray is a free agent, and this class is loaded.
25) Houston Texans
*Budda Baker, S, Washington
Baker, the fourth safety off the board so far, is a dynamic athlete with a small frame -- he's only 5-10, 173. He was a tackling machine for the Huskies, and he had two picks and three sacks in 2016. Quintin Demps is a free agent, and the Texans need to upgrade their defensive backfield.
26) Seattle Seahawks
Cordrea Tankersley, CB, Clemson
The Seahawks like big corners, and Tankersley (6-1, 190) fits their style as a guy who could hold up opposite Richard Sherman, and DeShawn Shead's knee injury opens up a spot. Tankersley had nine interceptions over his last two seasons and was a big part of the Tigers' success. Seattle will be in the market for offensive linemen, too, but I don't have much first-round talent available here at No. 26. There's still a long time until draft day, however.
27) Kansas City Chiefs
Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
The Chiefs' top pass-catchers in 2016 were a tight end (Travis Kelce) and rookie fifth-round pick who was better known for his return skills (Tyreek Hill). Davis was one of the most productive wideouts in the country during his career at Western Michigan, catching 331 passes for 5,278 yards and 52 touchdowns. He has ideal size (6-2, 212) and length to be a great NFL wideout. Kansas City has an interesting offseason ahead -- it doesn't have a ton of cap room, and it has to find a way to bring back top free agents Eric Berry and Dontari Poe.
28) Dallas Cowboys
*Sidney Jones, CB, Washington
Jones, a three-year starter for the Huskies, is the sixth corner off the board. At 6-1, 170, he's agile and fast with nice ball skills. He had nine interceptions in his career. Dallas has a glaring need at defensive end, but don't count out a corner here. Brandon Carr and Morris Claiborne are free agents.
29) Green Bay Packers
*Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
McCaffrey fits what the Packers want on offense. He's versatile like college quarterback-turned-receiver Randall Cobb and Ty Montgomery, who switched to running back in 2016. McCaffrey can return kicks, catch the ball out of the backfield -- he's dynamic with the ball in his hands. The Packers have a few needs on defense, but running back Eddie Lacy is a free agent, and they don't have an internal replacement.
30) Pittsburgh Steelers
*Charles Harris, OLB, Missouri
Harris had an up-and-down 2016 with nine sacks and two forced fumbles, but his ceiling his high. In this scenario, Harris (6-3, 255) would be an outside linebacker in the Steelers' 3-4, but he could play end in a 4-3 or even move inside to rush the passer from a tackle spot. Pass-rushers Jarvis Jones (a 2013 first-round pick) and James Harrison (who turns 39 this summer) will be free agents.
31) Atlanta Falcons
*Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
Barnett (6-3, 265) is the eighth defensive end or outside linebacker to go in my first round -- this is a great class for pass-rushers. He is an all-around defender who beats double-teams and makes plays in the running game, and he's versatile enough to play in a 4-3 or 3-4. The light came on for Vic Beasley Jr. in Year 2 in the NFL, but his 15.5 sacks accounted for 45.5 percent of the Falcons' total in 2016. He needs some help.
32) New England Patriots
O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Howard, my top-ranked tight end, had only seven touchdowns in his four-year career, but three came in national title games. The Crimson Tide didn't use Howard (6-6, 250) much in the passing game, and he could be more productive in the NFL. He can stretch the deep middle of the field and be a dynamic weapon. New England's No. 2 tight end, Martellus Bennett, could get a big deal in free agency this offseason, and it's too early to tell how Rob Gronkowski's back injury will heal. Howard would be a great fit.
this is gonna be an interesing year for QBs. will everyone over draft (again) or will they fall to late/round 2 and be dead to fish before their career even begins?
- wow the qb's in the top 10 is surprising to see. I say that because only a few weeks mcshay had 1 in the entire first round and that was at pick 30 and I believe kiper said on espn that Watson had a 3rd round grade and now he is a top 10 pick? I agree that 1 if not 2 qbs will be taken high, but a pretty crazy development over the past month and I'm sure more will change.
- I like that he has eagles going corner. I know they really need skill positions and would be awesome to have cook or mike Williams but I think they go WR in FA, RB in the 2nd or 3rd rounds depending on who drops and corner in the 1st.
- kiper said he has a better grade on zeke Elliott over fournette? that is surprising to hear, I thought fournette was the best prospect since AP??
ha he would be nice but I'm not counting on him as he is going to want to break the bank and I'm not sure if eagles can afford him. I was thinking someone less expensive like Kenny stills or maybe even desean Jackson part 2 which is what a lot of early rumor reports are saying.
I've made a bunch of changes in this mock from the 1.0 version. This isn't one of them. It's not out of the question that this pick could factor into the future at quarterback for the Browns, whether that's a drafted QB or one they acquire via trade. But Garrett is, right now, clearly the No. 1 player in this draft class and would be an immediate help at a position where having an elite player on a rookie contract is like stealing.
Like the Browns, the 49ers could also use this pick to solve the quarterback question either via drafting a player or trading for one. Given the current state of the rebuild, I suspect they're more likely to draft a quarterback or move down for more picks. Trubisky is my top-rated QB and the likeliest of the current crop to land here. Also, don't be so sure that Kyle Shanahan doesn't want to work with a young QB. He worked with a young Kirk Cousins and did some good things with Brian Hoyer.
I've heard a lot of people discuss whether this pick is worth, say, acquiring a player like Jimmy Garoppolo. I think it's worth remembering that Chicago doesn't have to be in the "Garoppolo or bust" camp. They could try to acquire Tony Romo. They could look to sign Tyrod Taylor, Mike Glennon or another free agent. In any event, I see them as more likely to find a veteran QB and go with a great defensive player here. Allen qualifies as a defensive lineman who can be moved around and create disruption.
The gap between Clemson's Mike Williams and Western Michigan's Corey Davis has narrowed in Todd McShay's latest prospect rankings for the 2017 NFL draft.
This might be a high draft slot for the traditional version of safety, but Adams is more than that. He's a true hybrid who never has to come off the field, because he can run extremely well and cover but also is a beast as an in-the-box defender. The Giants saw Landon Collins break out this year, and Adams has that kind of potential.
I went back and forth here between Lattimore and Mike Williams, the wide receiver out of Clemson. I settled on Lattimore, and I think the Titans could end up with the best cornerback on their board here. They had a heck of a time covering anybody last season, and cornerbacks cost a mint in free agency (and you won't find great ones there anyway). Lattimore isn't going to come in as an All-Pro, but the potential is significant, and the Titans need bodies.
"Wait ... what?" I can hear you. Let me explain. The Jets do have a QB problem to solve, but that seems more likely to come in free agency after they took a QB in Round 2 just last year. They could also draft a defender here, but the top cornerback is off the board. So why Fournette? For one, if they truly go with the best player available here, there's a real chance it's him, just as Ezekiel Elliott was for Dallas at No. 4 last year. Secondly, they know they can get a ton of reps from Fournette right now, and this is a team that needs to be better.
The Chargers will be getting back the ballhawk who left town when Eric Weddle went to the Ravens last year. One thing that makes Hooker particularly interesting here is that the Chargers already have one of the great pass-rushers in the NFL in Hooker's former teammate Joey Bosa. Hooker is the type of player who can help a great pass rush produce points going the other way on errant throws.
The Panthers need a pass-rusher, and Charlton has put himself in this value range. He closed the season on an absolute tear as a pass-rusher, and he doesn't just do it with speed. He offers legitimate size that you'd typically look for in a 4-3 edge defender, with length and weighing just a hair under 280 pounds.
Age is starting to catch up to the Bengals in spots on defense, and speed at linebacker has been an issue for a couple of years. At about 240 pounds, Foster isn't a lightweight at linebacker but has the range of a speedy hybrid type. He can fly to the sidelines, and he's an explosive tackler. The Bengals get younger at linebacker and an immediate starter.
This is obviously based on the idea that Tyrod Taylor would be playing somewhere else. We'll be able to say that definitively, one way or the other, in March. If there's a big question here, it's whether Watson is any more ready to start in year one than a quarterback who's currently on the roster. I think the Bills will go a different direction if they're able to bring in a veteran QB in March.
By their recent standards, the Saints took a small step forward on defense last season, but they really only went from "worst" to "almost the worst." They simply have to get better on that side of the ball if they want to be more than a .500-range team, even with a great offense. Thomas can be a terror as a pass-rusher, but he's a pretty complete player and simply makes you better.
12. Cleveland Browns, 1-15 (from Eagles)
Tre'Davious White, CB, LSU
In this scenario, two quarterbacks are off the board. Since I can't simulate a trade here (Jimmy Garoppolo?), this pick is made based on the idea that Cleveland has either found a QB through trade or free agency and doesn't want to reach on another QB. White would come in and at least partially address a major need area (coverage, in all aspects).
The Cardinals have patched it together at linebacker for the last couple of years, and I think Davis or Foster here makes a lot of sense. It gives them some flexibility with Deone Bucannon, and another explosive athlete on the defensive side of the ball. Davis can play right away.
Wide receiver has been a position of frustration for the Eagles, and it's imperative they add at least one more reliable pass-catcher next year, or they risk slowing the development of Carson Wentz. This is a spot where the Eagles could be considering another position (tackle comes to mind), but the value isn't there in some cases, and with Williams it definitely is. He's a great, big target for Wentz to work with.
Dwight Freeney is long gone, but now so, too, is Robert Mathis and his 123.5 career sacks. There is no question the Colts need to continue to work on the offensive line, but there simply isn't appropriate value at tackle at this spot in the draft. They also really need a pass-rusher, and McKinley is explosive off the edge.
The Ravens probably want to come out of the draft with more than one cornerback, so they might as well start early. Jones could add a little more muscle to his frame, but he has length and can flat-out cover, and if a QB makes a mistake he can show off hands, pluck the ball and head the other way.
At what point do you forget about what's conventional and just take the best football player, period? That's a question that could come into play with Cook, whom some teams will have graded as right next to on par with Leonard Fournette. The Redskins like Rob Kelley, but they don't have a home-run hitter like Cook, who could help take some pressure off Kirk Cousins, assuming he's back.
18. Tennessee Titans, 9-7
O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
I was between Howard and the next guy off the board for this pick, but ended up with Howard for two reasons: One, they need pass-catchers, and Howard is a weapon who doesn't have to take away from Delanie Walker. Put them both on the field; it's just provides Marcus Mariota with more weapons. Two, Walker is 32, and if he gets injured, Howard would provide immediate insurance. Get Howard now and another wide receiver later (or in free agency).
Mike Evans is officially a star, but Vincent Jackson is an unrestricted free agent, and the Bucs don't want a situation where defenses can just assume they'll be doubling Evans. Davis won't be running at the combine because of a small injury, but he's safely in Round 1 and would be a good value in this range (my buddy Todd McShay had him at No. 5 in his mock draft last week). Feed Jameis.
The young quarterbacks have gotten a lot of blame, but the quarterback play in Denver in 2016 wasn't any worse than the team got in 2015, when the Broncos won a Super Bowl. The big difference was how bad the offensive line was. Denver couldn't run the ball or protect consistently, and thus we could see an offseason makeover. Bolles might not be a plug-and-play at tackle, but Denver needs talent, and new offensive coordinator Mike McCoy can figure it out from there.
By the time we're done at the combine, I suspect most everyone will see Humphrey as a first-rounder. He has length, strength, speed and bloodlines, and pretty much everyone could use another good cornerback or two in 2017. Detroit certainly qualifies; it's a pretty weak group beyond Darius Slay, and Slay battled some injuries in 2016. The Lions have some good things going, but they need to add some help on defense.
The Dolphins have weapons at wide receiver, but they don't have a player like Njoku on the roster. He will be listed with the tight ends, but this is a 6-foot-4 guy who can run in the 4.5 range and set up and run past defenders. He also has the size to go up and get the ball over smaller players (that's most anyone in the secondary). Tannehill should be even better in his second year with Adam Gase, and Njoku would help.
If you're shocked this isn't an offensive tackle, I don't think you'll be surprised by the end of April when you've heard plenty about the blocking talent in this class. Barnett has been tremendously productive as a pass-rusher, and even if Jason Pierre-Paul is back, the Giants could use the help. If he's not, then a pass-rusher is a must.
The Raiders have a big need here, and Wilson offers length and experience at cornerback, where he has played in nearly 40 games for the Gators. For the first time in a while, the Raiders can be drafting in the midst of a title window, and I think cornerback help should be a part of the equation on Day 1 or Day 2. Wilson is a good value in this range, too.
Quarterback play was a problem in 2016, but the offensive line could use some help as well. Robinson, while by no means a lock to be an NFL left tackle, certainly adds to the talent level. He's a powerful run-blocker who needs to clean up some things to reach his potential as a pass-blocker. Regardless of who takes the snaps next year, improved O-line play will help.
It's not totally unfair to say the Seahawks' offensive-line play wrecked their shot at a Super Bowl title. I think age on defense is starting to become more of a concern, but if they find some value along the offensive line in Round 1, it would make sense. The secondary and pass rush could also be in play here, and the Seahawks should also have a clearer picture on Earl Thomas' progress by April.
Not many fans know Zay Jones, but he's a high-level talent. He slipped a little below the radar at East Carolina, but has the size, speed and hands you want, and he put on a show against good competition at the Senior Bowl. The Chiefs are no longer without weapons, given the presence of Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill, but another receiver would help.
The Cowboys could see some turnover at cornerback, and teams that need to hold leads can't be short at the position. Tabor could clean some things up in his technique, but he's a playmaker with good ball skills, and he flashes great anticipation. Dallas needs corners and pass-rushers, and Tabor is a fit in this range.
Taking nothing away from Ty Montgomery, the Packers should be looking to draft some help in the backfield. McCaffrey is a great weapon in the run game and could also be an option for Aaron Rodgers in the passing game. With Rodgers, it's simply about finding capable weapons to surround him with. We all know McCaffrey qualifies as one.
Sure, Bud DuPree started to show some things last season, but if not for James Harrison dominating Father Time, where is the consistent pass rush? The bottom line is, the Steelers need more help, and Reddick can come in and give them some reps in that role. He had 21.5 tackles for loss last season, and the traits match the production. Get to know this name.
The Falcons had incredible health and continuity along the offensive line, obviously have the quarterback and the weapons on offense and have some nice young pieces on defense. But they could use another capable pass-rusher to help out Vic Beasley. When you're guaranteed to face Jameis Winston, Cam Newton and Drew Brees six times a season, you can't have enough there. Harris can come in and help.
Peppers is still a bit of a mystery in terms of projection -- teams are doing a lot of homework and trying to figure out how and where he'll fit. But I know a good place to land for a player who can do just about anything but just needs a coaching staff who can be creative and use his instincts. Jim Harbaugh will be doing a lot of selling on Peppers' behalf, and perhaps the Patriots will listen.
i would prefer if eagles went corner but I would be happy with Williams as we obviously need some type of WR help. I don't remember saying anything bad about Williams, everything I've seen from him looks good and Clemson is like WR university over the past few years which doesn't hurt. as i have said in the past, I still think eagles try to sign a WR or 2 in FA which will change mock drafts but for now i'll take this and get excited about as a possibility.
im sure he will shoot up. washington has a pretty big representation this year, that safety is a beast too.
ugh sports is so bad right now. but at least we have free agency, the NCAA tourney, NHL and NBA playoffs and the draft to look forward to soon. NCAA lax is also getting started which im super pumped about. with the weather set to hit 70 this weekend good times are just ahead! hang in there my brothers!
I'm good with either Williams or the WMU kid, but to be honest I've never seen him play just going off what other people have said. I'm sure I'll see a ton of highlights over the next 2 months and i'll have a better preference then.
I would put eagles getting djax at 45%. they obviously need a speed WR but he is going to want to get paid and I'm not sure if it is worth paying him that kind of money when he is an injury prone speed guy who is getting older which is never good for pure speed WRs. I think the eagles go after Jeffrey if they can find ways to get more under the cap and want to go big or maybe someone like Kenny stills.
The Browns shouldn't overthink this: Garrett is the best pure pass-rusher -- and one of the best overall athletes -- in the draft. His freakish combine numbers (4.64 40-yard dash and a 41-inch vertical at 272 pounds) cemented his status as the No. 1 overall pick, in my opinion. Garrett can fit into any scheme. He's a transcendent-type player.
Brian Hoyer and Matt Barkley aren't long-term answers at quarterback, but them signing with San Francisco may free up the 49ers to take a top-tier talent like Thomas here before drafting a developmental QB on Day 2. With a good combination of quickness and power, Thomas would be a good fit for the defense Robert Saleh hopes to build out West.
Quarterback isn't quite as pressing of a need after the addition of Mike Glennon in free agency, so the Bears can take a similar approach to what I laid out above for the 49ers. Adams is one of the few players with an elite grade in this year's class. A big hitter with impressive range versus the run, the LSU product can play in the box and back deep. He has excellent intangibles and would immediately make the Bears' secondary better.
After spending big on defense two offseasons in a row, I think the Jaguars will use their first-rounder this season to improve QB Blake Bortles' supporting cast. RB Leonard Fournette is an option here, but I opted for Howard, who has had a spectacular pre-draft process, standing out during Senior Bowl practices and combine testing (4.51 40 at 251 pounds). Howard profiles as a big-play threat in the NFL and an underrated blocker.
Allen didn't test well at the combine, but he's a much better football player than his workout numbers would indicate. While some long-term concerns regarding his shoulder might cause him to fall, the Titans have the luxury of taking the best player on their board with this pick, because they also own the 18th selection. Allen would slide right in and start opposite Jurrell Casey at the 5-technique spot.
The Jets' quarterback situation is still unsettled, but Jay Cutler remains unsigned and could be a bridge to 2016 second-round pick Christian Hackenberg or TBD 2017 draftee. Durability issues are a concern with Lattimore -- he suffered two separate hamstring injuries in 2014 and 2015 -- but he has the potential to develop into a cornerback who takes away an opponent's top target each Sunday
A rangy safety with elite ball skills, Hooker is a perfect fit for Gus Bradley's defense, which features a lot of Cover 3 and zone coverage. Hooker is one of the five best prospects in this class, but it's unclear whether he'll be able to work out for teams prior to the draft after having offseason surgery on his labrum.
Fournette weighed in at 240 pounds and he's a violent, powerful runner on tape. That kind of skill set would fit nicely in the Panthers' downhill power-run offense. Fournette has elite straight-line explosiveness for his size (4.51 40) that will translate well to the next level.
The Bengals like high-production players from the highest level of college football, and they don't shy away from drafting players with some character red flags. Foster, who was sent home early from the combine and is a true three-down linebacker, certainly fits the profile. He has some of the best tape of anyone in this class, and he shows great range versus the run.
The departure of Stephon Gilmore makes cornerback a much bigger need for Buffalo, but with Florida's Teez Tabor running a bad 40 at the combine (4.62) and Washington's Sidney Jones injuring his left leg at his pro day, there's less top-end talent at that position than originally expected. Davis has yet to run the 40-yard dash (he's nursing an ankle injury), but I expect him to be in the 4.4s based on his tape. He also has great size (6-foot-2, 205 pounds) and ball skills.
After trading Brandin Cooks to the Patriots, New Orleans now has three of the top 42 picks in this draft and five of the top 103. They used their first four selections last year on defense, but still need help on that side, even after signing Alex Okafor, who's a solid player but does not solve their need for another pass-rusher. Barnett racked up incredible production in his three seasons at Tennessee (52 tackles for loss and 33 sacks). He uses his hands well as a pass-rusher, and he has the athleticism to drop into coverage occasionally.
I'm not convinced Cleveland will use this pick on a quarterback, but it would make some sense, especially after landing Garrett at No. 1 overall. Watson will need time adjust to a pro-style system, but he has the tools to grow into a good starter in the NFL if developed and utilized properly.
If Alabama LB Reuben Foster falls more than expected, he would be a great pick here. But after losing three defensive backs in free agency, cornerback is another possibility. White would give Arizona a physical, instinctive press-man corner to line up opposite of Patrick Peterson.
McCaffrey has a ton of versatility: He can handle 10 or so carries per game, catch passes as a slot receiver and contribute in the return game. He had an exceptional week at the combine, showing off his straight-line speed and short-area quickness. McCaffrey's elite character could be the tiebreaker with Florida State RB Dalvin Cook for some teams.
Rebuilding the offensive and defensive lines has to be a priority for the Colts. Edge rushers such as Takkarist McKinley or Charles Harris could make sense here, but Lamp is the best all-around offensive lineman in this draft. He played left tackle in college, but projects as a guard in the NFL. Flip on his tape against Alabama. This kid is for real.
If the Ravens opt to take a second first-round wide receiver in three years, they'd have a tough decision between the electric speed of Ross and the size/jump-ball ability of Mike Williams. Ross' tape shows his 4.22 40 is no fluke, and his savvy route-running ability and reliable hands make him a great all-around prospect.
Some character red flags and a deep running back class could lead to Cook falling a bit, but he's far too talented to drop out of the first round. Running back is a big need for the Redskins, and Cook is an explosive playmaker who's also an adept pass-catcher out of the backfield. He looks like a true three-down back in the NFL.
18. Tennessee Titans
Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
I'll be at Clemson's pro day on Thursday, and I'm interested to see what Williams runs in the 40-yard dash after sitting out the drill at the combine. On tape, he shows great hands and the ability to win contested catches. The one remaining question is: What's his true top-end speed? Running a 4.55 or better would be a win for Williams.
Bucs TE Cameron Brate had a breakout 2016 campaign with 660 yards and eight touchdowns, but Njoku's athleticism is on a different level. At the combine, he ran a 4.70 40 and jumped out of the gym with a 37.5-inch vertical and an 11-foot-1 broad jump. Njoku would give Tampa a formidable two-TE set.
Bolles has just one year of major college experience, but he's the most athletic left tackle prospect in this class and he plays with an edge. He has a lot of tools to develop, and after signing G Ronald Leary and OT Menelik Watson in free agency, Denver might have the time to bring him along properly.
A twitchy athlete off the edge, Harris is just scratching the surface as a pass-rusher. He led the SEC with 18.5 tackles for loss in 2015 and finished this past season on a tear (5.5 sacks, six quarterback hurries and a forced fumble in his final four games). Ezekiel Ansah can't be the only pass-rushing threat in Detroit.
Reddick has absolutely crushed the pre-draft process. He had a great week at the Senior Bowl, showing that he has the speed, change-of-direction skills and instincts to play an off-the-ball linebacker role in the pros. And then he posted elite numbers at the combine (4.52 40 and 11-foot-1 broad jump). It would now be an upset if he fell out of Round 1.
With Eli Manning turning 36, don't be surprised if the Giants draft a QB at some point in this draft. But that's more likely to come in the middle rounds. Ramczyk is dealing with a hip injury, so the medical recheck in April will factor into where he's selected. But if everything comes up good, Ramczyk has the length and mirroring ability to finally answer the Giants' problems at left tackle.
With Florida's Teez Tabor running a slow 40 at the combine and Washington's Sidney Jones suffering a leg injury at his pro day, there's suddenly plenty of room for other cornerbacks to move up the board. King and Ohio State's Gareon Conley are two fast risers. King's tape is good, and his workout numbers are even better. At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, King ran a 4.43 40 and posted a 39.5-inch vertical jump.
The Texans are still in the mix for Tony Romo, but if they're unable to land him, they'll be in the market for a quarterback after trading Brock Osweiler last week. Trubisky would be good value here. I love his pocket presence and accuracy, but have concerns about some of the critical errors he made, including two bad interceptions versus Stanford.
This would be a good fit for both sides. Pete Carroll can get the most out of McDowell, who has elite traits but subpar maturity and work ethic. He might be the most talented interior defensive lineman in this class, but he needs to land in the right spot.
Kamara is a perfect fit for Andy Reid's scheme. He runs with great determination/physicality, and he created a ton of yards on his own at Tennessee, which you always look for in running backs. Plus, he's more than capable of contributing in the passing game.
Charlton is just a solid all-around player -- he can get after the QB and stop the run -- and Dallas could use a few more of those along the defensive line. He has always had the raw ability, but this past season he showed more consistency and refined technique, finishing the season on a tear (10 sacks in his final 10 games).
Conley had a standout performance at the combine -- 4.44 40 and 10-foot-9 broad jump at 6-foot, 195 pounds. His tape isn't quite that good, but he has a lot of natural ability. The Packers learned last year that you can never have too many capable cornerbacks.
At 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, McKinley plays harder than any pass-rusher I've watched in years. He's a lock to make my All-Tape Team this year. He has really long arms (34¾ inches) and terrific speed (4.59 40), but he hasn't quite figured out how to use his hands. If he develops in that area, he has the ability to be really dangerous off the edge
Guard might be Robinson's best fit in the NFL, and he'd fill a hole for the Falcons at that position. Robinson doesn't have the most consistent tape, but the lack of elite offensive line prospects in this class could result in him coming off the board in Round 1.
Playing in a division against Mike Evans, Julio Jones and Kelvin Benjamin, the Saints could use a corner with some size. At 6-foot-1½, Wilson has a good length, and he displays strong instincts and outstanding ball skills (14 career pass breakups and six interceptions).
- McShay has eagles getting McCaffrey at 14 and i'll be PISSED if they draft him esp over someone like cook at this spot. I think they almost have to go corner here, since you know both starters from last year are gone, but if for some reason they feel they cannot pass on a RB it better not be a glorified 3rd down back and kickoff returner. unless he goes to a team that will use him properly like the pats or like teams have been doing with woodhead I do not see him being a 1st round and he is def not a lead back which the eagles currently need. going with him at 14 would be ridiculous and he I have a strong feeling he would be a bust with us esp with already having sproles.
- Solomon Thomas at #2?? mchsay had him at 31 in his last mock and kiper had him at 11 and now he's the 2nd best player in the draft?
- no QB's in the top 10 and no kizer in the 1st at all. first one is Watson at 12.
- OJ Howard at 4?? I know he had a monster combine and all, but from I remember he didn't put up huge numbers at bama other than a handful of games. I know he's a freak athlete but if you are going to make him the highest TE taken in the draft ever, doesn't there have to be some kind of production on the field to back it up?
haha it's obviously too early to tell but I think you're crazy if you're gonna guarantee 3 in the top 10. at this point we're not even sure if 3 will go in the first round. this draft reminds me of the geno smith draft a bit where all the experts were saying it was a weak qb draft and they weren't sure how high guys were gonna go one week, then the next geno was projected to go in the top 5 and it was real up or down. it ended up that only 1 qb went in the 1st round (ej manuel) and the rest of the guys dropped. I have a feeling that's gonna happen here where someone will fall in love with one of the qbs (say Watson) and draft them in the middle(ish) part of the first and the rest will drop. even in mcshay's draft he has mitch going to the Texans which will change once they get romo.
sorry josh, 0 qb's in the top 10 and only 2 in the first round in general so your guarantee is need a major comeback. OJ Howard #6 after mcShay had him 4, looks like more people think he will be a top 10 pick. As for the eagles, I think I finally talked myself out of the dream of getting dalvin cook. seems he is slipping some (2nd round potential??) but unless fournette drops (he won't) I don't see eagles passing on a corner at 14 for an RB. too big of a hole there and you need to go corner before RB in round 1, esp with guys like mixon or the Texas RB who have just as much potential that can be gotten in later rounds. never heard of the corner kipper has the eagles drafting but if they can come away with him or even white from LSU or Humphrey from bama I would be happy.
Garrett to the Browns has been my pick in the other two mocks, and I'm not changing it. His phenomenal combine performance -- a 4.64 40-yard dash, 41-inch vertical and 10-foot-8 broad jump, all at 6-foot-4, 272 pounds -- locked in his status as the best prospect in this class. Cleveland was 30th in the NFL in sacks last season (26), and Garrett is a brilliant, natural pass-rusher who had 32.5 sacks in three seasons for the Aggies. Don't overthink this pick, Browns; take the top overall prospect.
After the 49ers signed veterans Brian Hoyer and Matt Barkley in free agency, I'm moving away from North Carolina signal-caller Mitch Trubisky here. The urgency for the 49ers to pick a QB isn't as high. They could target a developmental prospect in the second or third round (Patrick Mahomes, maybe?) and let him have a redshirt year in 2017. The reality is that San Francisco has many needs on both sides of the ball. Thomas (6-3, 273) is a different kind of player than the D-linemen the 49ers have taken in the first round the past two years (DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead); he'll get after the quarterback from day one.
This might be a high pick for the traditional version of a safety, but Adams is more than that. He's a true hybrid who never has to come off the field, because he can run and cover but also is a beast as an in-the-box defender. His 4.56 40 at the combine was right in line with what I expected. The Bears targeted the secondary in free agency, signing cornerbacks Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper and safety Quintin Demps, and the addition of Adams (6-0, 214) would further boost their defensive backfield.
Jacksonville has put a lot of capital into improving its defensive line -- a No. 3 overall pick on Dante Fowler Jr., (2015) and big-money free-agent contracts to Malik Jackson (2016) and Calais Campbell (2017) -- but Allen is almost too good to pass up at No. 4. In this scenario, Allen (6-3, 286) would probably slot in at tackle next to Jackson, but he could kick outside, too. He's versatile enough to play in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense and rush the passer from the inside or at end. He totaled 22.5 sacks over the past two seasons in Alabama.
In Lattimore, the Titans would get the top cornerback in the draft with the first of their two picks in the top 18. Yes, they gave former Patriots corner Logan Ryan $16 million guaranteed in free agency, but they need bodies. Plus, longtime starter Jason McCourty turns 30 in August and is a free agent in 2018, so Tennessee could move on with a ready-made replacement. Lattimore (6-0, 193) is an athletic phenom who doesn't have a ton of experience -- he ran a 4.36 40 and had a 38.5-inch vertical at the combine, but he started just one season for the Buckeyes.
If the Jets are really going with Josh McCown, Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg at quarterback, they're going to need someone to catch passes to try to score some points. At 6-6, 251 pounds, Howard is my top-ranked pass-catcher, even though he wasn't prolific for the Crimson Tide, with just seven touchdowns in his career. He has all of the athletic attributes of a top-tier player, though, and he was one of the most impressive prospects at the combine. There is precedent for a tight end going this high, too -- Vernon Davis (49ers in 2006) and Kellen Winslow Jr. (Browns in 2004) both went No. 6 overall.
If Jahleel Addae is the Chargers' in-the-box safety, Hooker (6-1, 206) could be their center fielder. He has incredible range, but like Lattimore, he was a first-year starter for the Buckeyes in 2016. One thing that makes Hooker particularly interesting here is that Los Angeles already has one of the top pass-rushers in the NFL in fellow Buckeyes alum Joey Bosa. Hooker is the type of player who can help a great pass rush produce points going the other way on errant throws.
Jonathan Stewart is 30. Fozzy Whittaker is a part-time back at best. Cameron Artis-Payne hasn't shown much in two seasons. Why not take the draft's best back and put him in the backfield with Cam Newton? He's a special athlete with an incredible combination of size (6-0, 240), speed and power. Fournette can produce from day one in the NFL, and that Carolina offense would become even more scary.
The addition of free-agent middle linebacker Kevin Minter makes me think the Bengals won't take Reuben Foster, whom I had going to Cincinnati in Mock Draft 2.0. Pass-rusher is still in play, though, and McKinley is one of the most explosive in this class. At 6-2, 250, he's not huge, but he is suited to play end in today's NFL. Put McKinley in the rotation with Carlos Dunlap, Michael Johnson and Will Clarke, and the Bengals have a stellar foursome.
After losing Robert Woods to the Rams in free agency, the Bills have a clear need at receiver. And if Williams falls to No. 10, Buffalo would be getting a guy with a much higher ceiling than Woods, not to mention another Clemson wideout to go alongside Sammy Watkins. Williams' pro day moved him back to being my top-ranked receiver. His 40-yard dash was the question, and he ran right around 4.50, which is what he needed. Production wasn't the issue -- Williams (6-4, 218) had 98 catches for 1,361 yards and 11 touchdowns. Quarterback could still be in play here too, with the Bills committing to Tyrod Taylor with limited guaranteed money.
No prospect has risen as much during the pre-draft process as Reddick has. He was fantastic at the Senior Bowl, and he was one of the MVPs of the combine, with a 4.52 40, 36.5-inch vertical and 11-foot-1 broad jump. Reddick's value is in his versatility -- he could play inside or outside in a 4-3 or 3-4, with his hand in the dirt or playing on his feet in space. The Saints have made an effort to improve their 31st-ranked defense in free agency, re-signing Nick Fairley and bringing in A.J. Klein, Manti Te'o and Alex Okafor, and Reddick (6-1, 237) would probably play outside in New Orleans' 4-3.
This might be the ideal situation for the Browns, getting the top overall prospect at No. 1 (Garrett) and the top quarterback at No. 12. This is assuming they don't use draft capital to trade for Patriots backup Jimmy Garoppolo, who could still be available if the price is right. Trubisky (6-2, 222), who went to high school in Northeast Ohio and is a Cleveland sports fan, completed 68.2 percent of his passes and had 30 touchdown passes and six interceptions in his first season as a starter. The potential is there, but he's green. Trubisky could compete with Cody Kessler and give the Browns some hope for the future.
Arizona needs a quarterback of the future, and this is a sneaky spot to grab one -- if he's still around. Carson Palmer, 37, showed his age last season, and backup Drew Stanton hasn't proved he's a starting-caliber QB. So now Bruce Arians, who's a brilliant offensive mind, would get Palmer's heir apparent in Watson, who flashes top-five-pick talent at times but was inconsistent in 2016. At 6-2, 221, Watson has the arm strength, toughness and athleticism to play for a long time. He could back up Palmer in the short term while he adjusts gradually to the NFL. Keep an eye on the secondary here, too; the Cardinals lost their two starting safeties plus a corner in free agency.
The Eagles are in a good spot to get their pick of one of the best cornerbacks in a deep class. Several will be on the board at No. 14 with a potential run on pass-rushers at the top of the first round. Conley, the third member of the Ohio State secondary to be picked so far, is rising after the combine, where he ran a 4.44 40 with a 37.5-inch vertical at 6-0, 195. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz needs a new No. 1 corner, and this is a great fit.
Let's be clear here: I don't have Foster, a top-five talent, dropping because of his bizarre combine ejection. He's dropping here because not many teams above the Colts at No. 15 need a true inside linebacker. The Bengals and Saints, for instance, have both signed inside linebackers in free agency. Whichever team takes Foster, though, is getting a big-time, sideline-to-sideline defender with All-Pro potential. Indianapolis has done a solid job of upgrading its roster this offseason, and picking Foster (6-0, 229) is another step toward defensive respectability.
This is a strange year for offensive tackles -- there are no top-five-type talents in this class. This is about the range where I expect the first tackle to go. Ramczyk, Cam Robinson and Garett Bolles are all on the board, but I'm going with Ramczyk, who's a better prospect at right tackle. Baltimore has Ronnie Stanley, the No. 6 overall pick in 2016, on the left side, and Ramczyk (6-6, 310) would upgrade the right side over former undrafted free agent James Hurst.
Like I mentioned in Mock Draft 2.0: At what point should a team forget about what's conventional and just take the best football player? That's the value in McCaffrey here. The Redskins like Rob Kelley, but McCaffrey brings a different element to the offense as a runner and receiver, and he can be a return man, too. McCaffrey's 4.48 40 and 37.5-inch vertical at the combine eliminated any doubts about his athleticism.
Don't you think Marcus Mariota would be elated with this pick? He'd get a true field-stretcher in Ross, whose 4.22 40 broke the combine record. That's something the Titans' offense sorely lacks. Ross (5-11, 188) produces, too -- he had 81 catches for 1,150 yards and 17 touchdowns last season. Tennessee has drafted a good, young core on offense, and it could also target a cornerback or linebacker here and with the No. 5 overall pick.
This pick stays the same as Mock Draft 2.0 -- it makes too much sense. Vincent Jackson is gone, and free-agent signing DeSean Jackson will fill his spot opposite Mike Evans. Davis, who had 331 catches for 5,278 yards and 52 touchdowns in his collegiate career, would give Jameis Winston another fantastic option, but he's a different type of player from both Jackson and Evans. The only issue with Davis (6-3, 209) is an ankle injury that kept him out of the combine, and he might not run a 40 before the draft, so scouts won't have a true number. I don't expect him to drop out of the first round, though.
Njoku can no longer be considered a sleeper after posting a 4.64 40, 37.5-inch vertical and 11-foot-1 broad jump at the combine. He has the size (6-4, 246) and athleticism to run past and jump over defenders. He will be a weapon in the NFL. Experience is a question -- he's a third-year sophomore who only put it all together down the stretch of the Hurricanes' 2016 season -- but he has a high ceiling. This is another spot in which an offensive tackle could go.
Pass-rusher and cornerback are the two biggest needs for the Lions, and you can take your pick from a deep class at both positions. Harris (6-3, 253) would give Detroit's D-line a boost -- the Lions had only 26 sacks last season, which ranked 30th in the league. He would play end in Detroit's 4-3, but he could move inside and rush the passer when needed. Harris had nine sacks and two forced fumbles in 2016.
Laremy Tunsil's expected move to left tackle leaves an opening at guard, and Lamp is the best guard in the draft. He also could move over to right tackle or slide in at center, and his versatility is a plus. Though Lamp (6-4, 309) played in Conference USA, he has the traits to step in and play immediately next season. Miami also could be in play for a linebacker, even with Kiko Alonso locked into a new deal. Florida's Jarrad Davis makes some sense.
The Giants' 2007 and 2011 Super Bowl teams featured a fearsome pass-rushing rotation, and this would be an attempt to build out that rotation again. Jason Pierre-Paul and Olivier Vernon are entrenched as starters -- and they have the big-money deals to show for it -- but they played too many snaps last season. Vernon had more than 1,000, and Pierre-Paul was on his way before a groin injury ended his season in December. Barnett had 33 sacks in three seasons for the Volunteers, and he's an all-around 4-3 end at 6-3, 259 pounds.
D.J. Hayden was a miss at No. 12 overall in 2013, and now the Raiders will be looking for cornerback help on Day 1 or Day 2. Enter White, who has what many of the corner prospects above him don't: experience. A four-year starter for the Tigers, White (5-11, 192) could have been a Day 3 pick a year ago but made the right decision to return to school. The Raiders think they're Super Bowl contenders, but corner is a gaping hole headed into 2017.
The Texans could be in play for a quarterback here after trading away Brock Osweiler, though Tony Romo could find his way to Houston soon if he gets his release from the Cowboys. For now I'm sticking with Robinson at No. 25, even if he'll have no idea whom he's blocking for. Robinson (6-6, 322) has been a known commodity for the Crimson Tide, for whom he was a three-year starter, but he isn't a lock to play left tackle. He's a powerful run-blocker who needs to clean up some things to reach his potential as a pass-blocker.
Before Sidney Jones' Achilles injury at the Washington pro day last week, the Huskies had a realistic chance of having two corners taken in the first round of the draft. King (6-3, 200) is a lanky, rangy defender who fits the Seattle mold of bigger defensive backs, and he knows his way around the city. In a great class of cornerbacks, he stands out for his size but also can move, as the 4.43 40 at the combine showed. The Seahawks could be in the market for an offensive tackle on Days 1 and 2 as well.
Jeremy Maclin had a down season in 2016, and the Chiefs' top pass-catchers were tight end Travis Kelce and rookie fifth-round pick Tyreek Hill, who's not a true No. 1 wideout. Jones has moved up my board considerably thanks to his performances at the Senior Bowl and combine, where he ran a 4.45 40 and had a 36.5-inch vertical. At 6-2, 201 pounds, he put up huge numbers for the Pirates last season with 158 catches for 1,746 yards and eight touchdowns. Adding Jones would help open up the Chiefs' offense and give Alex Smith a reliable, productive target.
Wouldn't this be a Jerry Jones type of pick? Peppers is one of the most well-known prospects in this class, but he's a tweener (5-11, 213) who's polarizing to NFL scouts. The team that drafts him will have to get creative and use him as a hybrid safety who can play the run and cover tight ends. Peppers also could be a great return man. He's a tremendous athlete (4.46 40, 35.5-inch vertical). And Dallas' secondary has been depleted in free agency -- Brandon Carr, Morris Claiborne, Barry Church and J.J. Wilcox are all gone.
Cook's stock is dropping a little bit. He didn't test amazingly at the combine, a couple of shoulder injuries at FSU have worried teams and not many teams in the first round need running backs. But falling to Green Bay here would be considered a great value pick. Green Bay needs a back and will take one at some point -- converted receiver Ty Montgomery is really all it has now -- and Cook (5-10, 210) is one of the best home run hitters out there. Cook gives Aaron Rodgers and the offense some help in the passing game, too.
I came close to giving Green Bay another player here: Oklahoma's Joe Mixon, who is surging up draft boards and might be the most talented back in the entire class. Mixon has notable off-field issues, and some teams will take him off their boards because of that, but I expect him to be picked by end of the second round.
You might remember Bowser from the time he got in a fight with a teammate and broke an orbital bone the day before a game, but he has made a name for himself from his play on the field, too. He had 8.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss for the Cougars in only eight games last season. Bowser (6-3, 247) is perfect for a 3-4 team like the Steelers, and he is rising up draft boards after testing incredibly well at the combine with a 4.65 40 and 37.5-inch vertical. Pittsburgh brought back James Harrison, who at 38 could be a mentor to Bowser.
Charlton falls to Atlanta here in this projection because a 4.92 40 at 6-6, 277 at the combine was concerning. He's still a first-round talent, however, and I suspect the Falcons would be thrilled to put him on the other side of Vic Beasley Jr., who broke out with 15.5 sacks last season, and let him get after quarterbacks. Charlton has long arms (34¼ inches) and active hands and takes ideal angles when rushing the passer.
The Saints are trying to pry away restricted free-agent corner Malcolm Butler from the Patriots, but until they do, the position is a weak spot on a defense that gave up the most passing yards per game (273.8) last season. Humphrey (6-0 197) has length, strength, speed and good bloodlines (his father is former NFL running back Bobby Humphrey). I had Haason Reddick going to the Saints with their other first-round pick, and I suspect they'd be happy with two defenders who could step in and play immediately.
David Njoku, TE Miami
Ryan Ramczyk, OT Wisconson
Garrett Bolles, OT Utah
Dalvin Cook, RB (I'll take him)
Christian McCaffrey, RB (I have a man crush i think he's going to be a stud)
Derek Barnett, DE Tennessee
Zach Cunningham, LB Vanderbilt
Forrest Lamp, OG/C Western Kentucky
Corey Davis, WR WMU
Cam Robinson, OT Bama
This is a super deep draft with A LOT of talent at basically every position but the OL and QB, i see big things for the future of this draft.
you're that high on mccaffrey? i guess it depends on when he is drafted, but if he's in the 15-20 range where i see a lot of mocks placing him i just don't see it working out for him. if you're taking a RB in the middle of the 1st, a team would hopefully see him as their feature back and i don't see his body being able to take that kind of punishment every week at the NFL level. the fact he only had 10 reps at the bench press was really concerning to me, how can a guy take that kind of pounding and hold up and be effective at the NFL level? You realize his bench press was the 2nd weakest RB in his draft class, and the only one lower was some dude who is like 5'6. To me his best case is Darren sproles which is a great 3rd down back, KR/PR returner and occasionally can handle an increased workload if needed, but you don't draft that kind of player in the middle of the 1st round. i think he is more of a specialty player you draft in the 2nd or 3rd round, or at best if a team like the packers or patriots drafted him at the end of the 1st and had a specific role for him, i can see it working out. But if a team like the skins drafts him and thinks he's their featured back then good luck.
I don't think Bench Press translates to "taking a beating"
I think he's special, great vision at the line, superb catching....
Draft guru Lance Zierlein himself says......
NFL COMPARISON Tiki Barber
BOTTOM LINE Multidimensional runner with flex appeal for teams looking for a player who can carry the ball 20 times or catch it 10 depending on the game plan. McCaffrey's size, power and speed are just average, but he is able to create yardage for himself with his vision and elusiveness. McCaffrey's ability to return punts and kicks could be the value sweetner that pushes his name into the first round.
bench press in my mind relates to strength and physical endurance. In my opinion someone who can lift 225 20+ times is more likely to be able to take a beating week in and week out over someone who can only do it 10 times. i looked at some of the past years bench press numbers from 2010 to current and here is what I found:
- only 2 RBs benched 10 times or less and they were Kenyan drake (solid back but more of a 3rd down runner and not a starter) and de'anthony Thomas (same as drake but a worse RB and he is normally used as a slot WR).
- of anyone who benched 11-19 times I only saw 2 starting RB's on that list and it was Thomas rawls (15) and legarrett blount (18). McCaffrey does not have the body of either, but maybe he can turn into a runner like rawls, however rawls has not had a season where he has more than 150 carries and has been injured a good amount in his young career so it may still be too earlier to tell on him as well.
- out of guys who did 20 or more reps i saw names such as Jermey Hill (20), mark ingram (21), demarco murray (21), le'veon bell (24), david Johnson (25), doug martin (28)
to be clear, i don't think just because you can bench a lot means your going to be a great RB as a lot of these guys who put up big numbers never made it. but my point is, if you are going to draft a RB with a middle 1st round pick and plan to get him the ball 15-20 times a guy i would much rather be in the category of guys who have shown they can carry the ball game in and game out such as the 20 rep guys i mentioned, rather than the 2 3rd down backs i listed who were in the range of where McCaffrey finished. if he gets picked in the 2nd round then maybe i would like the move, but at 14 where i saw some guys use the eagles to pick him, i would not be happy with that.
now watch the eagles draft him at 14 and me have to talk myself into loving the pick...