2017 NFL Mock Draft: 1st-Round Projections after Week 5

After another exciting week of college football, here’s a complete updated first-round NFL mock draft.

Another week of college football is in the books, and there are a handful of guys that are starting to make some big names for themselves.

The big names like Myles Garrett and Leonard Fournette already look like top-tier prospects. However, a few other names have started to sneak into the first round after some great starts to this season.

The NFL draft order will continue to change in the coming months, but here is what the first round would look like if the draft was t

Note: First round draft order is based off of Super Bowl odds as of September 27th via Odds Shark.

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

This season is going about as expected for the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, that’s not a good thing, because the Browns are 0-3 and looking like the worst team in the NFL. On the bright side, at least they’ll get the No. 1 overall pick with a chance to get the most dominant defender in this year’s draft class.

Texas A&M’s Myles Garrett is an absolute beast at 6’5” and 270 pounds. Not only does he have the size as an edge defender, but he also has the raw power and strength to drive offensive linemen back. He’ll be a dominant force against the run and pass, although it will take some time for him to develop the proper technique to create separation on would-be blockers.

The Browns are desperately missing impact defensive players outside of Joe Haden. Adding someone like Garrett who could make plays in the backfield could help the defense turns things around.

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, Notre Dame

Is Jay Cutler’s time just about over in Chicago? The Bears would only lose $2 million in dead cap space if they released him after the 2016 season. Cutler has already missed 16 games, a full season, during his time in Chicago, and he’s expected to miss more time in 2016.

Since the Bears are probably going to be one of the worst teams in the league this year due to all of their injuries, they could start the rebuilding process by drafting their next potential franchise quarterback.

It’s a tough choice between the top two players at the position, and although the Fighting Irish are having a disappointing season, I think that Notre Dame’s DeShone Kizer could be a better fit for the Bears’ offensive system.

At 6’4” and 230 pounds, Kizer has the build of an NFL quarterback. Kizer also has the arm talent and touch to make some great throws. He would have his work cut out for himself in Chicago, but having weapons like Alshon Jeffery and Kevin White could help him make plays as a rookie.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

The AFC South is getting more and more competitive, which means that even the Tennessee Titans have a shot at taking the division title at some point in the next few years. If the Titans want to have a chance at winning the division, then they’re going to need to keep adding pieces to their defense.

Jurrell Casey could use some help on the defensive line, and Alabama’s Jonathan Allen is the best D-lineman in this year’s draft class. Allen could be an ideal fit as the Titans’ 5-technique defensive end thanks to his explosiveness and ability to create interior pressure.

Allen plays a lot like Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Daniels. If he can live up to that comparison in Tennessee, then the Titans defense would get a whole lot better.

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

Blaine Gabbert and Colin Kaepernick are not the answer at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. Provided that this season goes downhill, the 49ers could at least find a brand new quarterback that could be a perfect fit for Chip Kelly’s system.

Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson is shaking off the rust after a rough start to this season. He will need to add a little more weight at the next level, but Watson’s arm strength and mobility make him an ideal candidate to replace Gabbert under center for the 49ers.

The one concern with Watson is that he rarely goes through his reads, usually staring down his No. 1 target and taking off if he’s not open. That could change with time, but other than that Watson looks like a legitimate first-round pick. A poor performance against Louisville might hurt his stock, but the teams at the top of this mock draft need a quarterback so badly that they’ll consider reaching for one.

With Watson at the helm of the 49ers offense, Kelly could start expanding the playbook and utilizing the Clemson quarterback’s skill set.

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

Sorry Chris Ivory and T.J. Yeldon, but when Leonard Fournette is on the board, it’s going to be hard for the Jacksonville Jaguars to pass up on him. Ivory is 28 and been dealing with an undisclosed illness to start the season while Yeldon has yet to look like a legitimate starting running back at the next level.

The LSU prospect is the complete package at running back. He has the speed, vision, acceleration and size at 6’1” and 235 pounds. He isn’t afraid of contact and has a vicious stiff arm. The only concern with Fournette heading into the NFL is his ankle injury which he’s been playing on for the majority of this season. An ankle isn’t the biggest problem, but scouts will still do their due diligence on him.

Fournette could give the Jaguars that complete running back to take some pressure off of Blake Bortles and the passing game. Sure, the Jaguars could also go with a defensive player here, but how can you pass up on who many are considering the best running back prospect in the past few years?

Jan 1, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes past Northwestern Wildcats offensive lineman Eric Olson (76) during the first half in the 2016 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

The New Orleans Saints have arguably the worst defense in the league, so they could take just about any defensive prospect and their fans would be fine with it. While they could definitely look at a defensive back here, They could try and add some youth to their defensive line.

Tennessee’s Derek Barnett is shooting up draft boards after some dominant games to start the season. Through five games the junior already has four sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss.

Barnett could play as an edge rusher at the next level, but also fits as a 4-3 defensive end in the Saints’ scheme. Paul Kruger is more of a stop-gap at the position at 30 years old, and there’s no guarantee he comes back after his one-year deal. Adding Barnett to play on the opposite side of the line with CAmeron Jordan could make things a bit more difficult for opposing offenses.

Sep 17, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) runs the ball in the second half against the Colorado Buffaloes at Michigan Stadium. Michigan won 45-28. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

Michigan’s Jabrill Peppers is the kind of prospect that could go even earlier than No. 7 overall. While the Jacksonville Jaguars could have considered him earlier, the Miami Dolphins are the next logical fit.

Peppers is easily the most versatile player in this draft class. He can play safety, cornerback, linebacker, return kicks and punts or even line up on offense. He’s an absolutely ridiculous athlete with elite instincts and a nose for the ball.

Few defensive prospects look as polished and poised as Peppers has coming out of college. If they draft him, the Dolphins are hoping that he can come out of Michigan and make an immediate impact for their defense.

Oct 1, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) is blocked by Kentucky Wildcats running back Jojo Kemp (3) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Tide defeated Kentucky 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

LB, Alabama

Kwon Alexander and Lavonte David are two studs at linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While I could see them reaching for a wide receiver, I think that they would be better off adding a third linebacker that could give them potentially the best group of players at the position in the league.

Alabama’s Reuben Foster is a big hitter, getting a full head of steam on his way to the ball carrier before wrapping up and laying out opponents. He’s got great instincts and size to play linebacker in a 4-3 system, but he really needs to work on his pass coverage skills.

A linebacker trio of Alexander, David and Foster could give the Buccaneers coaching staff the flexibility to get creative with their play calling, and that could help make up for some of the defense’s other weaknesses.

Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) blocks Furman Paladins guard Matthew Schmidt (62) during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Malik McDowell

DL, Michigan State

It’s pretty impressive to see how quickly the Detroit Lions were able to get over the loss of Clavin Johnson by adding guys like Marvin Jones. However, this team is still far from a finished product, especially on defense.

Adding another defensive lineman to play alongside Haloti Ngata and Ziggy Ansah would be a smart move. Michigan State’s Malik McDowell might just be one of the best defensive linemen prospects heading into this year’s draft.

McDowell is a powerful prospect at 6’6” and 276 pounds. He’s a capable pass rusher and can plug up rushing lanes. The biggest concern with McDowell is that he can struggle against the double team, but that wouldn’t be as much of a problem in Detroit with another playmakers on the defensive line.

Sep 3, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) celebrates his interception with linebacker Shaan Washington (33) during the second half against the UCLA Bruins at Kyle Field. Texas A&M won in overtime 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Ray Carlin-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Evans

S, Texas A&M

You have to give the San Diego Chargers some credit for building out their secondary recently, adding pieces in free agency and the draft like Casey Hayward and Jason Verrett. However, the Chargers still desperately need to address their lack of talent at both safety positions.

This year’s draft class is loaded with safety talent. Outside of Peppers, Texas A&M’s Justin Evans has impressed me more than other safeties.

Evans is one of the most aggressive tacklers for a defensive back you’ll see on film. He does a good job of making huge hits and wrapping up ball carriers in open space, but what’s really stood out this year is his improving ball skills to break up passes or grab interceptions. At just 200 pounds, he’ll need to add some weight if he wants to play strong safety at the next level.

By adding an impact defender like Evans, the Chargers secondary could finally start looking like a respectable unit.

Sep 3, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) against the Bowling Green Falcons at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 77-10. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Raekwon McMillan

LB, Ohio State

J.T. Barrett is getting a lot of the attention out of Ohio state, but the Buckeyes defense has a handful of potential first-round picks. One of those is the impressive linebacker Raekwon McMillan.

McMillan fits the mold of what someone that the Buffalo Bills could be looking for in their starting inside linebacker. He’s got great size and instincts, but his speed is just as impressive. That speed and athleticism allows McMillan to disengage from would-be blockers and also drop back into pass coverage.

With Kiko Alonso no longer in Buffalo, the Bills need a new long-term option at middle linebacker. Grabbing McMillan in the first round could give the Ryan brothers another guy to develop alongside Reggie Ragland in 2017.

Nov 21, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Idaho Vandals quarterback Matt Linehan (10) runs the ball while defended by Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

Carl Lawson

Auburn, EDGE

I don’t think we’ve seen enough of the Washington Redskins defense to know exactly what their biggest need is. Still, I don’t think that Washington would be any worse off if they tried to add another talented edge rusher to try and get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Auburn’s Carl Lawson is the best edge rusher available here. He has a nice frame at 6’2” and 260 pounds, using his power and arm length to drive back and disengage with offensive linemen. Lawson has already generated four sacks and 10 QB hurries this season, and those numbers are going to keep climbing.

There are concerns about Lawson’s injury history, but if he can stay healthy this year, there’s no reason that the Auburn edge defender shouldn’t be a first-round pick. Adding Lawson to play alongside guys like Ryan Kerrigan and Preston Smith should help the Redskins generate more pressure on passing plays.

Oct 1, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) celebrates after an interception during the first half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

Thanks to a trade with the Los Angeles Rams for last year’s No. 1 overall pick, the Titans get a second first-round selection in the 2017 draft. Even after drafting Allen earlier, the Titans should continue to add key pieces to their defense.

Tennessee’s secondary isn’t exactly stellar, and they could use some help at the cornerback position. I still don’t think there’s a clear-cut No.1 cornerback in this class, but Florida’s Jalen “Teez” Tabor could wind up being that guy by the end of the season.

Teez has that combination of size (6’0”, 201 pounds) and speed that makes him such an appealing draft prospect. He’s aggressive and has great ball skills to create turnovers. However, his play against the run over the next few weeks could determine whether or not he’s the first cornerback off of the board in late April.

Sep 3, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns his second interception during the second half against the Bowling Green Falcons at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 77-10. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

I have to give Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller a hat-tip for pointing out Ohio State’s Malik Hooker earlier this week. After hearing Miller talk up Hooker up, I went back and watched his film against Bowling Green and was blown away by his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, cover the entire field with some ridiculous range and show off some unbelievable ball skills.

Of course plays like this don’t hurt either.

The New York Jets have one of the better defensive lines in football, but they still need some help in their secondary. With Darrelle Revis, Buster Skrine, Calvin Pryor and Hooker all in the defensive backfield, the Jets defense could quickly become one of the best in the league.

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end DeMarcus Walker (44) reacts after a sack in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Camping World Stadium. Florida State Seminoles won 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

DeMarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

The Atlanta Falcons offense is finally starting to live up to its potential. However, the team isn’t going to be a legitimate contender in the NFC until they can at least boast a respectable defense.

The secondary and linebackers have some nice young talent, but the defensive line could use an impact player, particularly on the end of the line. Florida State’s DeMarcus Walker might not be the biggest defensive lineman  at 6’3” and 273 pounds, but he could be a great addition to the Falcons defense.

Walker is a powerful and technically sound defensive end. He does a great job of staying low and using his leverage to push offensive linemen back. He translates best as a five-technique end in a 3-4 scheme, but I could see him still having a positive impact in Dan Quinn’s defense.

Sep 24, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the second quarter as South Florida Bulls linebacker Danny Thomas (53) defends at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

The running back position has been devalued over the past few years, but this upcoming class of running backs is the best we’ve seen in a long time. Dalvin Cook is the clear No. 2 back in this class behind Fournette, but if he keeps playing like he has the past couple of weeks, Cook might start having scouts debate who the No. 1 back really is.

The Florida State prospect has hit his stride over the past two games, racking up 407 rushing yards and five touchdowns while adding another 168 receiving yards. Cook has elite vision and acceleration to see the hole and burst through it for some huge plays. Perhaps the best comparison for Cook is a young Chris Johnson.

Even though the Oakland Raiders could probably use some help on defense, imagine just how dangerous their offense would be with Derek Carr, Amari Cooper and Cook all making plays for them.

Oct 10, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines cornerback Jourdan Lewis (26) scores a touchdown on an interception in the second quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jourdan Lewis

CB, Michigan

The Indianapolis Colts have one of the most banged-up and depleted defenses in the league right now, but even when healthy that’s not exactly a unit with a lot of talent. The secondary has been particularly concerning, although the Colts still do have one of the most underrated cornerbacks in the league in Vontae Davis.

With the nickel corner becoming a full-time position in the NFL, the Colts need as many defensive backs as they can get. One guy that continues to stand out in the college football landscape is Michigan’s Jourdan Lewis, and I think that he could be a great piece for the Colts.

Lewis continually gets knocked for his size (a generous 5’11” and 187 pounds), but the Wolverines prospect plays so much bigger. Not only does he do a great job of sticking with his assignments, but he’s also a surprisingly good tackler in open space, which scouts will love to see from him. The ball skills are also there, as made evident by his insane game-sealing interception on Saturday against Wisconsin.

Critics will keep knocking Lewis for his size, but the film shows that the Michigan cornerback is a legitimate first-round talent.

Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) runs after a catch in the second 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

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

A.J. Green is still one of the most talented wide receivers in the league, but the Cincinnati Bengals don’t have the receivers around him that they used to. With Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones gone, the Bengals should seriously consider adding another receiver to give Andy Dalton another weapon to throw to.

Clemson’s Mike Williams is the top receiver in this draft class, but could slide in the first round due to the plethora of talent at other positions. Still, Williams is a great receiver with that rare combination of size at 6’3” and 225 and speed that can make him a dangerous threat at the next level.

Green and Williams could be a dangerous pair of receivers, especially if the former is willing to give the Clemson prospect some pointers. The Bengals are still trying to become a Super Bowl contender out of the AFC, and having two potentially elite receivers could help them take that next step.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers offensive lineman Forrest Lamp (76) blocks Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

There is a serious lack of talent at the linebacker position for the New York Giants. Adding pieces to that unit should be priority No. 1 this season, whether that’s in the draft or in free agency.

If they’re serious about improving the unit, then they should consider taking Alabama’s Tim Williams. Yes, Williams was arrested earlier this week for carrying a pistol without a permit, but the firearm was licensed in Louisiana, where he purchased the gun. Scouts will have some questions for Williams at the Combine, but I don’t expect his draft stock to take a major hit.

Williams has specialized as a pass rusher at Alabama, so he needs some time to develop as a run defender and in pass coverage. Still, his athleticism and speed give him some incredibly high upside heading into the NFL.

Nov 14, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) intercepts a pass intended for Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Jeremy Sprinkle (83) during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

There is so much talent on the Houston Texans defense, but there’s a pretty noticeable weakness at free safety with Andre Hal manning the position. As you’ve seen so far, this draft class is filled with first-round-caliber safeties, and there’s yet another one that the Texans could take a look at.

LSU’s Jamal Adams is a such an intriguing prospect because he can match up with anyone, whether that’s a slot receiver or a tight end. He’s aggressive and can make plays at the line of scrimmage as well.

Adams still needs to prove that he can consistently cover the deep ball, but the LSU prospect has the tools to be a complete package at the safety position in the NFL. If he can live up to expectations, teams will struggle to score points against Houston in 2017.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) celebrates after recovering an onside kick during the fourth quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

Even with Orlando Scandrick, Morris Claiborne and Brandon Carr, the Dallas Cowboys could always use some more depth at cornerback, especially with Carson Wentz, Eli Manning and Kirk Cousins playing in the NFC East.

Alabama’s Marlon Humphrey may actually be good enough to start over some of these guys. He’s a physical corner that excels in man coverage and also isn’t afraid to make some big hits in the open field.

Humphrey could be a great addition as an outside cornerback for the Cowboys, and he has the upside to be a long-term starter at the position.

Sep 24, 2016; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies wide receiver Isaiah Ford (1) is tackled by East Carolina Pirates defensive back Travon Simmons (3) during the first quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

Isaiah Ford

WR, Virginia Tech

The wide receiver position is getting more and more depressing for the Baltimore Ravens. Steve Smith Sr. is gone after this year, Mike Wallace hasn’t been the same player since he was in Pittsburgh and Breshad Perriman is still trying to find his groove.

Although taking Isaiah Ford might be a bit of a reach, the Virginia Tech prospect is still an incredibly talented receiver. His footwork and speed make him a dangerous threat to burn opposing defensive backs, while his production speaks for itself. In four games this season, Ford has already caught 24 passes for 376 yards and four touchdowns. His only game without a TD came against Tennessee and future NFL cornerback Cameron Sutton.

The Ravens are in desperate need of weapons for Joe Flacco, and Ford has the upside to be a future No. 1 receiver in the NFL. If the Ravens start to struggle and pick earlier in the draft, there’s a chance that they can get Mike Williams, but Ford isn’t a bad consolation prize.

Dec 5, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) runs against Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40) during the third quarter of the 2015 SEC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Jarrad Davis

LB, Florida

The Browns will get two first-round picks thanks to the trade they made with the Philadelphia Eagles, who moved up to grab Carson Wentz. Cleveland is such a mess that they could use you just about anyone with their second pick. On the bright side, that means that they can look for the best value pick.

Looking at who is still on the board, Florida’s Jarrad Davis might be the most talented player available. He’s a strong all-around linebacker that uses his athleticism to make plays all around the field. He can stop the run, rush the passer and also does a pretty solid job in pass coverage, as long as it’s zone coverage or man against tight ends or running backs.

Davis is still developing as a player, but the potential is there for the Florida prospect to become a household name. Adding Davis and Garrett to the defense could help the Browns start to turn things around, at least marginally.

Sep 17, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) celebrates after a sack against the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Charles Harris

EDGE, Missouri

Defense wins championships, and while the Kansas City Chiefs have a lot of talent on that side of the ball, it’s never a bad idea to keep adding players that can get to the quarterback.

Missouri’s Charles Harris is someone who could keep climbing up draft boards as the season continues. He’s a surprisingly polished pass rusher off of the edge with more than one move to create separation. He has the ideal size of a 3-4 outside linebacker at 6’3” and 255 pounds.

While Harris wouldn’t be a workhorse at the position coming into Kansas City, he could be a great rotational piece to keep fellow pass rushers fresh and occasionally make some big plays for the Chiefs.

Adoree Jackson

CB, USC

Boy, are the Carolina Panthers missing Josh Norman right now. The Panthers were absolutely ripped to shreds by Matt Ryan on Sunday, with the likes of James Bradberry and Bene Benwikere completely incapable of slowing Atlanta’s passing game down.

The Panthers need a new No. 1 cornerback, which is exactly what Adoree Jackson could be. He does a great job defending against the deep ball with some fluid hips and top-tier speed. He can also make tackles in the open field, but I want to see some more effort on running plays from him.

Jackson isn’t the biggest guy, but he’s so athletic and instinctive that he could be a Day 1 starter for the Panthers if they drafted him.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

It’s hard to tell what direction the Arizona Cardinals will go with their first-round pick. They don’t exactly have a lot of weaknesses, and while I could see them trying to draft a quarterback to learn behind Carson Palmer, I would rather see them draft a tight end.

Darren Fells and Jermaine Gresham haven’t exactly been world beaters at the tight end position, but Alabama’s O.J. Howard could give them a seriously intimidating mismatch in the passing game. He has excellent size at 6’6” and 242 pounds and has the soft hands to make him a frightening red zone threat.

If Palmer stays for 2017, the Cardinals need to give him more weapons to work with. If Howard joins the Cardinals and plays at a high level, the Cardinals could be the most complete team in the NFL next season.

Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) rushes the ball against the Washington Huskies during the second half at Husky Stadium. Washington won 44-6. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

Carson Wentz officially looks like the franchise quarterback that the Philadelphia Eagles so desperately needed. Now that they know who will be playing under center for the foreseeable future, the Eagles can focus on adding weapons around Wentz.

Darren Sproles is nearing the end of his NFL career at 33 years old, and what has made him so valuable for so long was his versatility as a runner and pass catcher. Fortunately for the Eagles in this mock draft, they could replace Sproles in 2017 with another dynamic playmaker in Stanford’s Christian McCaffrey.

For those who haven’t watched McCaffrey, he is a dangerous playmaker with the speed, vision and acceleration to pick up yards in bunches. He’s a valuable player in the running game, catching passes or even as a return specialist.

If you thought that Wentz was scary now, imagine how he’ll do when defenses have to plan against him and McCaffrey in the backfield.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) blocks USC Trojans linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (42) during the game at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

The Denver Broncos signed former Chiefs lineman Donald Stephenson this offseason to play right tackle. My coworker Matt Verderame thinks that Stephenson might be one of the worst offensive tackles in the game, so I have to believe that the Broncos will look for a new one in the draft.

Alabama’s Cam Robinson is the perfect replacement candidate for Stephenson at right tackle. Robinson isn’t the best in pass protection, but he is absolutely dominant in paving the way for his running backs. At 6’6” and 327 pounds, Robinson uses his size and aggressive mindset to blow defenders back and create rushing lanes.

C.J. Anderson has been playing well this season, but he could have an even bigger year in 2017 with Robinson potentially blocking for him.

Oct 1, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) returns a punt against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Desmond King

CB, Iowa

What? The Legion of Boom drafting another defensive back? If the Seattle Seahawks are picking this late in the first round, they need to think about finding the best value. Yes, they need offensive line help, but Cam Robinson is the only tackle worth a first-round pick in an extremely weak class. The same can go for the wide receiver position, and they can wait for a later round before looking at running backs considering how deep the position is this year.

Richard Sherman and Jeremy Lane are a formidable duo with Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas backing them up. However, there’s surprisingly not a lot of depth at corner and they could use a reliable third corner.

Desmond King would have been an early pick in the 2016 NFL draft, but he decided to finish his senior season with the Hawkeyes. He’s a player with tremendous ball skills and a lot of speed, which means that he could at least come in and play in the slot right away.

If King could learn from guys like Sherman, there’s no telling what kind of upside he would have, and that would make the Seahawks secondary that much more dangerous.

Dec 30, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Louisville Cardinals linebacker Devonte Fields (92) celebrates after a sack during the first half in the 2015 Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Devonte Fields

EDGE, Louisville

Like any team that needs help defensively, the Pittsburgh Steelers could always use some more help rushing the passer. Even when Bud Dupree returns, the Steelers could add another edge rusher that can make his way into the rotation to keep the pressure coming.

Louisville’s Devonte Fields has been inconsistent at times this season, but the has still picked up two sacks and three quarterback hurries. He’s also made a lot of plays at the line of scrimmage, batting down two passes and intercepting another one.

Fields does a get job getting off the snap and bending the corner to generate pressure. He may not be able to do that on every play, but bringing him in for pass situations as a rookie could help him develop into a formidable edge rusher.

Sep 26, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Indiana Hoosiers head coach Kevin Wilson talks with offensive lineman Dan Feeney (67) during the first quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Dan Feeney

OG, Indiana

The Green Bay Packers traded up last year to get Indiana offensive tackle Jason Spriggs. However, there’s another offensive lineman out of Indiana that might be even better in guard Dan Feeney.

Feeney was instrumental in the success of guys like Tevin Coleman and Jordan Howard coming out of IU, even helping the former eclipse 2,000 yards in his final season with the Hoosiers. Feeney hasn’t played much this season due to a concussion, but his play last year was better than solid.

The Packers could use a starting-caliber guard after releasing Josh Sitton, and this is one that could be too tempting to pass up on.

Sep 10, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (left) practices reps with teammate Zach Baun during pre-game before the game with the Akron Zips at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports

T.J. Watt

OLB, Wisconsin

No one has any idea what the New England Patriots are going to do when draft day comes around, but one player I wouldn’t be the least bit shocked to see Bill Belichick take in the first round is Wisconsin’s own T.J. Watt.

This is only Watt’s first season at outside linebacker, and he’s only been playing the position for 14 months after switching from tight end. That hasn’t stopped Watt from being a dominating force at the position for the Badgers, racking up 5.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss and five quarterback hurries.

Watt has the size to play the position at 6’5” and 243 pounds, and you can assume that he’ll get even stronger considering he shares the same genes as three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt.

If Watt can continue to play at this insanely high level this season, there’s no reason that he shouldn’t be a first-round pick.

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