2017 NFL Draft: Post-Super Bowl Mock for All 32 Teams

Apr 28, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams fans await the announcement of quarterback Jared Goff as the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft at draft party at L.A. Live. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Fans can finally close the book on the 2016 season and focus on the NFL Draft, now that Super Bowl LI is in the books. Niner Noise dishes out our first post-Super Bowl mock for all 32 teams in Round 1.

It’s officially NFL Draft season, now that Super Bowl LI is in the books and we’ve crowned the New England Patriots champions over the Atlanta Falcons.

Well, technically there’s still free agency. But draft talk is always more fun.

The Cleveland Browns have been on the clock since the end of the regular-season, and they hold the No. 1 overall pick. Right behind them are the San Francisco 49ers, armed with a new general manager in John Lynch and a new head coach in Kyle Shanahan.

    The Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans finish off the top five.

    Draft stocks and team needs will change between now and Round 1 of the NFL Draft. Free agency will play a factor, and events like the NFL Scouting Combine will create risers and fallers within the draft class itself.

    Regardless, let’s look at what the first round of the draft might look like for each team.

    NIner Noise will break down each specific prospect-to-team selection. And we won’t be afraid to note a trade not deep into the draft.

    So let’s kick things off the right way and have some fun with this 32-team Round 1 NFL Draft mock.

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

    Myles Garrett

    EDGE, Texas A&M

    The Browns have the luxury of taking the best player on the board, and that player is Texas A&M edge rusher Myles Garrett.

    Cleveland needs help across the board, and some might feel the Browns reach for a quarterback here. But with little QB value at No. 1 overall here, and another pick coming later in the round, there’s little reason why Cleveland goes in any other direction.

    Oh, and the Browns might be in play for Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason, negating any possibility of a reach here:

    Garrett would provide the Browns with a defensive player to build around for years to come.

    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

    Defensive Line, Alabama

    Our first trade of the NFL Draft kicks off at pick No. 2, which was previously held by the 49ers.

    San Francisco, not being able to grab Myles Garrett, sends off the pick to Tennessee in exchange for both the Titans’ Round 1 picks — Nos. 5 and 18.

    The numbers add up — just check out the values, courtesy of Pro Football Talk.

    Some might also argue Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen is equally as good as Garrett. If not, he’s certainly close.

    Allen is a pocket-wrecking force, which would set up Tennessee’s defense for years and create some much-needed ferocity up front.

    Sep 17, 2016; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) looks to pass in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

    Mitch Trubisky

    Quarterback, North Carolina

    Bears quarterback Jay Cutler’s future in Chicago is in doubt, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the team moves on from him this offseason.

    Regardless, the Bears need a quarterback and offensive playmakers in general.

    North Carolina QB Mitch Trubisky might be a bit of a reach here, but there are plenty of quarterback-hungry teams between now and when Chicago drafts next.

    Trubisky is widely viewed as the top quarterback in this year’s draft class. So the Bears don’t hesitate to take the gamble.

    Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) reacts after they they stopped Louisville Cardinals on 4th down during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

    Jamal Adams

    Safety, LSU

    The Jaguars need some help on offense, but a player like LSU safety Jamal Adams is simply too good to pass up here.

    Adams is an explosive playmaker, and Jacksonville desperately use those within its secondary. He’d also be a defensive piece to build around for coming seasons. Adams certainly has the look of a regular Pro Bowler.

    And the Jaguars need those kind of players as their rebuild continuation moves forward.

    Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) looks on during warm-ups prior to the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

    Reuben Foster

    Inside Linebacker, Alabama

    The 49ers have so many needs, that trading down from No. 2 to acquire another first-round pick makes too much sense.

    Offense figures to be a priority in new head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system. But general manager John Lynch is of the defensive mindset, and he looks to plug up San Francisco’s biggest weakness last year — the run defense — with as stout a player as there can be at linebacker.

    Alabama’s Reuben Foster.

    Foster is a freakish athlete capable of plugging interior run gaps, converging to the outside and adequately covering receivers in space.

    With Foster on board, the Niners would have yet another stellar inside linebacker tandem, pairing the Alabama rookie with perennial All-Pro NaVorro Bowman.

    December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) tackles Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    Marshon Lattimore

    Cornerback, Ohio State

    The New York Jets secondary was a huge disappointment in 2016. And while a quarterback is a pressing need, New York doesn’t quite see the value at No. 6.

    Ohio State’s Marshon Lattimore makes a lot of sense here. A bit undersized, it’s almost impossible to question his coverage ability.

    This will give New York the chance to shift around some of its older and not-so-good pieces within its defensive backfield, allowing the Ohio State corner to emerge as a potential shutdown guy.

    December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) celebrates after intercepting a pass against the Clemson Tigers during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    Malik Hooker

    Safety, Ohio State

    If Jamal Adams is the best safety in this year’s NFL Draft, Ohio State’s Malik Hooker isn’t too far behind.

    The Los Angeles Chargers secondary revealed plenty of weaknesses over the course of last season.

    Most importantly, they don’t have any impact players in this part of the defense. While adding some youth to the offense is still a main priority, Hooker is a playmaking figurehead to significantly boost a scuffling Los Angeles defense.

    Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

    Dalvin Cook

    Running Back, Florida State

    Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart will be 30 years old by the time the upcoming season starts, and it’s time to find his replacement.

    Florida State tailback Dalvin Cook is arguably the best running back in this year’s draft. He’s powerful, elusive and has all the traits to emerge as a featured runner at the next level.

    Considering how much the Panthers rely on offensive coordinator Mike Shula’s ground attack, adding a player like Cook makes too much sense.

    It would also help take some of the pressure of quarterback Cam Newton.

    Nov 19, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

    Solomon Thomas

    Defensive End, Stanford

    The Cincinnati Bengals need some athletic help within their front seven. This was a primary area of weakness on the defense last year.

    Stanford defensive end Solomon Thomas might be a bit of a tweener at the next level. But he’s athletic enough to move around within whatever scheme he’s placed. It wouldn’t be a bad move for head coach Marvin Lewis to shift a player like Thomas from a DE to more of an edge rusher.

    Still, Thomas could stay along the line and provide much-needed pass-rushing prowess from the interior — something the Bengals are lacking.

    Dec 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

    Deshaun Watson

    Quarterback, Clemson

    The Buffalo Bills’ situation with quarterback Tyrod Taylor is uncertain at best, and signs are pointing to Buffalo wanting someone else under center in 2017.

    Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson has proven doubters wrong at every level. And despite wonders whether or not he’d be able to translate his skill set to the NFL level, Watson is still intriguing enough for Buffalo to take a shot.

    Watson would be armed with a good receiving corps and a stellar running back in LeSean McCoy.

    It would be a good situation for new head coach Sean McDermott to develop a quarterback.

    Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the second quarter against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

    Derek Barnett

    Defensive End, Tennessee

    So help me if the New Orleans Saints go offense in Round 1.

    The Saints need help almost everywhere on defense. And if we go with the “it all starts up front” argument, selecting Tennessee defensive end Derek Barnett makes a lot of sense.

    Barnett isn’t a natural pass-rusher, per se. But he has the awareness and ability to create regular pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could open up more opportunities for other edge rushers to get home.

    He’s also good against the run, which would help give New Orleans a two-piece defender to solidify the defensive front.

    Sep 10, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) looks to throw in the first quarter against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

    DeShone Kizer

    Quarterback, Notre Dame

    Cleveland used its first of two Round 1 draft picks to get Myles Garrett, which was the right move.

    But the Browns desperately need a franchise quarterback within head coach Hue Jackson’s offense. Heck, the Browns need a franchise something.

    While he might not be atop most NFL Draft quarterbacking big boards, it’s easy to make the argument Notre Dame’s DeShone Kizer is the most promising of all the 2016 class.

    Kizer has good size, desirable arm strength and accuracy, which is the mold of most any successful quarterback at the pro level.

    Apr 8, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (31) looks on in the third quarter during the Orange and Blue game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Blue won 38-6. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

    Teez Tabor

    Cornerback, Florida

    The Arizona Cardinals are faced with plenty of age questions on the offensive side of the ball, namely quarterback Carson Palmer and wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald.

    But they’ll likely have those two back in 2017, which opens up another pressing need — cornerback.

    Arizona’s coverage defense was up and down last season, which makes a ballhawking corner like Florida’s Teez Tabor a solid pick at No. 13.

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

    Zach Cunningham

    Outside Linebacker, Vanderbilt

    The Indianapolis Colts desperately need to get younger on defense this offseason.

    Defensive end Robert Mathis’ retirement will help force the issue, and the Colts’ front-seven defense would be a perfect place to start.

    A linebacker like Vanderbilt’s Zach Cunningham would be a nice fit in new general manager Chris Ballard’s first year. Cunningham has great football instincts and the physicality to make him a force on a Colts defense needing room to grow.

    Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    Marlon Humphrey

    Cornerback, Alabama

    The Philadelphia Eagles have to have the cornerback position at the near top of their wish list in the NFL Draft.

    Alabama’s Marlon Humphrey might be the best available option at this point in Round 1, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see Philadelphia target the big-bodied defensive back with the pick they acquired in the Sam Bradford trade.

    Humphrey projects as an outside corner, and this is precisely the area the Eagles need to address.

    Nov 3, 2016; Boulder, CO, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) and linebacker Jayon Brown (12) tackle the scramble of Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Sefo Liufau (13) in the first half at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

    Takkarist McKinley

    EDGE, UCLA

    The Baltimore Ravens could use some help in the pass rush this offseason, and thankfully this year’s NFL Draft class is deep off the edge.

    UCLA’s Takkarist McKinley could be used as a traditional 4-3 defensive end or as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 front. He’s probably more of a situational pass-rusher off the edge, since he’s not overly terrific against the run.

    But the Ravens don’t need a bunch of help there. They need pass-rushers.

    McKinley supplies that.

    Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) celebrates after a touchdown catch against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

    Mike Williams

    Wide Receiver, Clemson

    OK, 49ers fans. You really thought Clemson wideout Mike Williams was going to slip to you with the Niners’ second first-round pick in the NFL Draft?

    Close. But not quite.

    Williams falls due to injury concerns about his neck. Sure, he’s the best receiver in this year’s NFL Draft. But how durable will he be at the next level?

    The Washington Redskins are poised to take a gamble. In all likelihood, they’ll franchise quarterback Kirk Cousins if they don’t open up the checkbook. But veteran wide receivers DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon are both hitting the free-agent market as well.

    Washington only has so much money, so Williams could easily be a key replacement at a lower cost.

    Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) reacts after catching a touchdown pass during the second half of the 2017 Cotton Bowl against the Wisconsin Badgers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

    Corey Davis

    Wide Receiver, Western Michigan

    The 49ers could land Clemson wideout Mike Williams in Round 1 of the NFL Draft, but settling for Western Michigan receiver Corey Davis isn’t exactly a bad deal.

    San Francisco addressed a major defensive need with the No. 5 overall pick. Now new general manager John Lynch solves another — the wide receiver position. The team still needs a quarterback, so look for that answer to happen early in Round 2.

    At 6-foot-3 and 213 pounds, Davis is a big body who can double as an outside threat as well as in the red zone. His route-running abilities are among the best in this year’s class.

    Just like that, the Niners have solved two of their pressing needs in the first round.

    Sep 24, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) is seen during the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

    Jabrill Peppers

    Safety, Michigan

    The up-and-coming Tampa Bay Buccaneers could use some help at the very end of their defensive backfield, as well as various points within the linebacker corps. So taking a shot at Michigan safety Jabrill Peppers in the NFL Draft makes sense.

    Peppers can play at safety, inside or outside linebacker, which gives the Bucs plenty of flexibility in building their defense in coming seasons.

    The only problem is Peppers isn’t exactly a standout at any one of those positions. Yet he’s still a playmaker and good enough to handle those positions at the pro level.

    Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) in action during the game against the Western Michigan Broncos in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

    Ryan Ramczyk

    Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin

    Offensive tackle Russell Okung wasn’t the answer in 2016, so the Denver Broncos will be looking at the NFL Draft for a long-term answer.

    Wisoncon’s Ryan Ramczyk is a perfect fit for general manager John Elway here. Ramczyk has a tremendous wingspan and uses his strength to hold off pass-rushers and run stoppers at the point of attack.

    At best, Ramczyk would be a plug-and-play starter at left tackle in Okung’s stead. Or Denver could simply work him into the equation at right tackle and give him a year, or so, to develop.

    Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

    Taco Charlton

    EDGE, Michigan

    The Detriot Lions offense managed to overcome last season’s sudden retirement of former wide receiver Calvin Johnson fairly well. And quarterback Matthew Stafford enjoyed one of the better seasons of his career.

    Yet the Lions defense needs help in the NFL Draft. Especially the pass rush.

    With 10 sacks and 13.5 tackles for a loss in his senior year at Michigan, edge rusher Taco Charlton stays in the state and helps bulk up Detroit’s quarterbacking-pressure group.

    He might need some refinement at the next level, but Charlton’s 6-foot-6 and 272-pound frame certainly make him look the part.

    Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

    O.J. Howard

    Tight End, Alabama

    The Miami Dolphins primarily need help on the defensive side of the ball. But turning down one of the more dynamic playmakers in this year’s NFL Draft, tight end O.J. Howard, is simply too good to pass up.

    The former Alabama standout has done nothing but impress, and he was a force in the Crimson Tide’s loss to Clemson in the national championship.

    Howard would give head coach Adam Gase an amazing go-to guy, which should give quarterback Ryan Tannehill a major weapon with which to work.

    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

    Running Back, Stanford

    The New York Giants managed just 3.5 yards per carry on the ground last year, and a strong running game would go a long way to ensure offensive playmakers Odell Beckham Jr. and Eli Manning don’t have to bear all the pressure.

    Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey isn’t an every-down back, certainly not someone who can take the punishment of being a true No. 1

    Yet he’s a thrilling weapon — either out of the backfield or, perhaps, even as a slot receiver.

    And one can think what Manning and McCaffrey might be able to do here as well.

    Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) scores on a pick 6 during the 2nd half of a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

    Malik McDowell

    Defensive Tackle, Michigan State

    The Oakland Raiders could go for some help in the secondary here, but getting strong up front might help out the defensive backfield by default.

    A great pickup in the NFL Draft would be Michigan State defensive tackle Malik McDowell, who is a prototypical pocket-wrecking force.

    He’s not a pass-rusher by any means, but McDowell is strong enough to draw two or three blockers, which would help linebacker Khalil Mack get some open lanes.

    In turn, this leads to quarterback pressure and, subsequently, less pressure on the secondary.

    Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) and linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrate after defeating the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    Cam Robinson

    Offensive Tackle, Alabama

    The Houston Texans certainly need a quarterback in the NFL Draft, and Brock Osweiler isn’t the answer.

    Yet the value for a rookie QB isn’t quite here at No. 25 overall, and the Texans would be wise to find better protection for whoever is under center in 2017.

    One could argue Alabama offensive tackle Cam Robinson is the best lineman in this year’s NFL Draft. Perhaps, and Robinson has certainly stood up to some of the best competition in college football.

    A quarterback should be the next priority.

    Jul 26, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Indian Hoosier offensive lineman Dan Feeney addresses the media during the Big Ten football media day at the Hyatt Regency. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

    Dan Feeney

    Offensive Guard, Indiana

    The O-line, the O-line, the O-line should be the No. 1 priority for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL Draft.

    Armed with one of the worst in the NFL last season, Seattle’s offensive line needs upgrades at almost every position. And while some of the better tackles have been taken by No. 26 overall, Indiana’s Dan Feeney isn’t a bad find late in Round 1.

    Feeney, a four-year starter, would be an immediate upgrade at right guard. He could shift over to the left, but Seattle doesn’t have to be picky here. This unit simply needs help.

    Dec 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Ian Sadler (12) is tackled by LSU Tigers cornerback Tre’Davious White (18) in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

    Tre'Davious White

    Cornerback, LSU

    The Kansas City Chiefs have a phenomenal piece in their secondary with cornerback Marcus Peters. But they need more help.

    LSU is known for producing top-tier defensive backs, and cornerback Tre’Davious White is no exception.

    The 5-foot-11 and 191-pound White might be slightly undersized, ideally, for the position. But there isn’t any question about his ferocity. And the 14 passes he defended his senior year proves he’s not afraid of getting involved on hotly contested balls.

    Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) sacks Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Trevor Knight (8) during the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

    Tim Williams

    EDGE, Alabama

    Aside from some depth at wide receiver, the Dallas Cowboys are good on offense. Everyone knows they need defensive upgrades in the NFL Draft.

    Edge rusher Tim Williams out of Alabama would be a nice find at the tail end of Round 1.

    Sure, he doesn’t offer much more outside of his ability to get to the quarterback. But his 18.5 combined sacks over the last two years would go a long way in a Cowboys pass rush lacking elite get-to-the-QB talent.

    Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) celebrates as students rush the field after a game against the Stanford Cardinal Husky Stadium. Washington won 44-6. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

    Sidney Jones

    Cornerback, Washington

    The Green Bay Packers secondary is a prime vulnerability, and finding a quality defensive back should be one of the first orders of business in the NFL Draft.

    Former Washington cornerback Sidney Jones has OK size, at 6-foot-0 and 181 pounds. While he could afford to add some bulk at the next level, Jones’ coverage abilities are solid enough to warrant consideration at the end of Round 1.

    Jones’ eight interceptions over three collegiate seasons also suggest he could be a vital ballhawk Green Bay’s defense so desperately needs.

    Nov 21, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Temple Owls defensive lineman Haason Reddick (58) dives to make a tackle on Memphis Tigers wide receiver Jae’lon Oglesby (19) during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

    Haason Reddick

    EDGE, Temple

    The outside linebacker/EDGE position is a top priority for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL Draft.

    At 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, Temple’s Haason Reddick might be a bit of a tweener as a linebacker or defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. But it’s impossible to ignore the production he put up last season — 43 solo tackles, 9.5 sacks and 22.5 tackles for a loss.

    Reddick is versatile enough to move around in head coach Mike Tomlin’s defense, which would be a major bonus for this unit’s overhaul needs.

    Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA;Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) works out prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

    Charles Harris

    EDGE, Missouri

    The Falcons have solid pass-rushing prowess with Vic Beasley, but it’s still clear they’ll be upgrading the front seven via the NFL Draft.

    Missouri has a knack for producing top-tier collegiate edge rushers, and Charles Harris would seamlessly fit into what Falcons head coach Dan Quinn wants in his defense.

    Harris’ 18 sacks and 34.5 tackles for a loss over three collegiate seasons would complement Beasley and a growing Atlanta defense.

    Nov 14, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) walks on the field prior to the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

    Carl Lawson

    EDGE, Clemson

    The Patriots have some front-seven free-agency questions hitting them this offseason, so finding a pas-rushing replacement early in the NFL Draft is likely a top priority for head coach Bill Belichick and Co.

    Lawson suffered a torn ACL in 2014 and missed all of that season and was limited to just seven games the following year.

    But Lawson came back strong in 2016 with 9.5 sacks and 14 tackles for a loss, putting to rest any doubts whether or not previous injuries had set him back.

    With Lawson boosting the Super Bowl champs’ defense, look for New England to find some supplementary depth pieces later on in the NFL Draft.

    More from Niner Noise

      Names will certainly rise and fall between now and draft day. There are prospect interviews as well as the NFL Scouting Combine.

      But with the Super Bowl in the rear-view mirror, we’ve got a solid idea on how the NFL Draft may shape up in Round 1.

      And, as always, keep posted with Niner Noise for all your 49ers draft coverage leading up to April 27.