2017 NFL Mock Draft: Big Trades Reshape Both Conferences

Oct 8, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) leaves the field following the game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium. NC State won 10-3. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

The latest 2017 NFL mock draft hasn’t changed at the top, but everything beneath it has been thrown for a loop with new teams in new places.

Perhaps most fascinating is how the quarterback market has shifted in this class, even at the top. There are some new faces to consider. No doubt it has an impact on how the rest of the top 32 play out. Of course nothing is for certain, save for the #1 overall pick. Pretty much everybody can see this one coming.

1. Cleveland Browns

Deshone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

Despite his setback in hurricane-swamped N.C. State, nothing much has changed with Deshone Kizer. He still holds his place as the best quarterback in the 2017 class. That mix of size, mobility, arm strength and intelligence are what every team pines for going into a draft. There are still fundamental issues to work through, but experience and good coaching will take care of that problem. Kizer would be by far the most talented quarterback Jackson has ever worked with. A scary though considering the coaches’ success.

Oct 8, 2016; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Jabrill Peppers (5) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at High Points Solutions Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

2. San Diego Chargers

Jabril Peppers

S, Michigan

So somebody like Jabril Peppers makes a ton of sense. He’s arguably the best athlete in the entire 2017 class. There are few positions he’s proving unable to play. He can line up as a receiver on offense, a returner on special teams and has the prowess for both safety and cornerback on defense. That versatility is something the Chargers just don’t have. His sheer upside means he could end up being even better than Eric Weddle, whom they are certainly missing at this point.

Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

3. Miami Dolphins

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

Myles Garrett is the instant solution to that problem. He may be the best overall prospect in the draft. A true athletic talent who has molded himself into a top pass rusher. Big and strong enough to play 4-3 defensive end but also athletic enough to play linebacker. His versatility gives any defensive coordinator a load of options when it comes to attacking an opponent. He should keep the defensive tradition going for Miami as they try to break through in the AFC East.

Oct 7, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to a game against Boston College at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

4. San Francisco 49ers

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

Especially when they end up with Deshaun Watson. The Clemson star is not a fit for every offense, but his skill set could be ideal for Kelly’s up-tempo style. Watson is a dual-threat type who can make things happen with his feet. While not possessing the strongest arm, he’s got enough juice to take shots down the field. He also knows how to get the ball out fast. If he can avoid too many erratic passes, there is no question he can thrive under Kelly.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Anthony Wales (20) is grabbed from behind by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) and defensive back Eddie Jackson (4) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Tide defeated the Hilltoppers 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

5. Carolina Panthers (via CHI)

Panthers get #5 pick

Bears get #10 pick, 2nd in 2017 and 2nd in 20185

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

That is why they decide to make the move up the board to grab Jonathan Allen. The Alabama standout is one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in the entire class. He’s a big, strong and consistent pass rusher who can move inside or outside depending on situation. He’s big enough for defensive tackle but also quick and explosive enough for defensive end. Best of all he’s consistent. There is no relaxing in his motor from play to play.

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

6. New York Jets

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

That is why they eagerly scoop up Florida standout Jalen Tabor. He exhibits the necessary traits of a man corner. He’s tall with good length, quick, athletic, and boasts solid recovery speed. He has able instincts and a decent nose for the football. Teams throw his way very seldom because it’s difficult to beat him with any regularity. That sort of consistent sticky coverage is what makes him the ideal press corner. It’s not a stretch to imagine him replacing Revis, who could then move to safety as he himself predicted.

Sep 17, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs the ball against Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive back Brandon Bryant (1) during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

7. Jacksonville Jaguars

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

The back who comes the closest to that type of style in this draft class is Leonard Fournette. He’s a beast of runner with a big body but quick feet and breakaway speed. He’s the type who stresses defenses because he’s athletic enough to handle 25-30 carries a game without breaking much of a sweat. His added mix of raw power makes him a potential nightmare for defenses. Why wouldn’t the Jaguars be eager to put him on the field with Blake Bortles and Allen Robinson?

Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) returns a fumble by Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Austin Allen (not pictured) for a touchdown as defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) trails the play during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

8. Indianapolis Colts (via NO)

Colts get #8 pick

Saints get #11 pick, 4th round pick in 2017 and 5th round pick in 20188

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

There are some who have cooled on Tim Williams of late, but that hasn’t stopped him from continuing to do his job. Namely sacking quarterbacks. He has 3.5 through the past four games, forced two fumbles and also returned one for a touchdown. There are some off-the-field questions but nothing too serious. Not yet anyway. Williams looks like the prototypical 3-4 outside linebacker. He’s fast, quick and agile coming off the edge. Put him on that fast turf in Lucas Oil Stadium playing with a lead? The numbers will pile up fast.

Sep 24, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) talks to teammate during the second half of a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

Malik McDowell is currently caught in the vortex of a team free falling through their schedule. Such occasions makes it easy to miss how good a player actually is. There is plenty to like about the young defensive tackle. In addition to being a quick, shifty interior pass rusher he also displays the ideal length teams look for. It allows him to gain certain advantages that some defensive linemen just don’t have. His game is still raw in some areas, but if he ever put the pieces together it could be special.

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

10. Chicago Bears (via CAR)

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

The Chicago Bears are at a point where they are definitely in the market for a quarterback. Jay Cutler will be 34-years old in 2017 and continues to suffer injury problems. Backup Brian Hoyer will be a free agent as well. GM Ryan Pace has not yet thrown his hat into the ring, not selecting a quarterback through his first two drafts. Trubisky could be the one he’s been waiting for given the skill set and the competitiveness.

Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Keon Hatcher (4) catches a pass for a touchdown as Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) defends during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

11. New Orleans Saints (via IND)

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

The return of Sheldon Rankins will help the rush next year, so the Saints would be wise to find help at cornerback. Marlon Humphrey is the latest cover corner project off the assembly line at Alabama. True to form he has that mix of a solid 6’1″ frame and true speed to hang with a receiver down the field. He’s rarely ever beaten cleanly and always has a hand in the play. At this point New Orleans is desperate for dependability. That is what Humphrey will provide them, and perhaps more.

Oct 8, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first half against Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

12. Detroit Lions

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

This class is loaded from top to bottom with quality rushers. Dalvin Cook might be just the ticket the Lions could hope for. He more than any back is equipped specifically to play in that offense. He can run between the tackles very well but is even more dangerous as a pass catcher. That dual threat capability would give Stafford a lifeline to dump the ball off whenever he needed a way out. Similar to what he had for a short time with Reggie Bush. Cook may end up being better.

Oct 8, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) throws a pass during the first half against Florida State Seminoles at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

13. Arizona Cardinals

Brad Kaaya

QB, Miami (Fl.)

One has to feel bad for Brad Kaaya. On the surface it looks like he had a hand in why Miami lost a heartbreaker to Florida State due to a bad end zone interception. In truth he made a number of beautiful throws including several that were dropped. He also tossed what should’ve been the touchdown to force overtime before a botched extra point ruined it. He’s a tall, even-keel kid with a strong arm who knows how to operate from inside the pocket. Arians may be just the guy he needs to blossom.

Oct 7, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a touchdown over the defense of Boston College Eagles defensive back Gabriel McClary (14) during the first quarter at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

14. Cincinnati Bengals

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

It would be quite a piece of good fortune if Mike Williams landed in Cincinnati. The 6’3″ receiver from Clemson has every tool needed to excel. He can play the 50/50 jump ball game thanks to his leaping ability and strong hands. He’s also faster than people realize, enabling him to get a step or two on defensive backs in a number of situations. There are health concerns after his neck injury last year but no ill-effects have been seen so far. He’s steadily regaining the form that made him such an exciting prospect.

Oct 1, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Northwestern Wildcats punter Hunter Niswander (96) tackles Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

15. Tennessee Titans

Desmond King

CB, Iowa

His 2015 season was a testament to that. He collected eight interceptions. The young man is a dynamic cornerback who plays a complete style of game. He is good in coverage but doesn’t shy away from his responsibilities as a tackler and run defender. He’s tough and physical. Teams might shy away from the fact he’s 5’11” but the athleticism makes up for such a problem. Move him around the field and watch him put in work.

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes past Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) during the second half at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

16. New York Giants

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

Tennessee standout Derek Barnett doesn’t get much of the same hype as other rushers in this class, but he might be among the most proven. After collecting 10 sacks last year, he has five in six games so far this season. That sort of consistent production is what teams look for. Barnett is strong, aggressive and runs with a high motor. Tackles who don’t take him seriously pay the price. He’s got enough size and strength to handle defensive end duties in a 4-3 scheme. The Giants could plug and play him immediately.

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

17. Seattle Seahawks (via KC)

Seahawks get #17 pick

Chiefs get #26 pick, 3rd round pick in 2017 and 5th round pick in 201817

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

There is a lot of buzz going around Alabama tackle Cam Robinson, most of it not good. It’s doubtless he’s the most talented tackle in this class, but his problems off the field have really begun to eat at his stock. Teams are starting to feel his personality and choices make him way too big of a risk. Still the Seahawks are no strangers to such personalities. They’ll feel Pete Carroll can handle that problem, in addition to the leadership on that team. If Robinson stays out of trouble, he’s an instant upgrade.

Oct 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) is pursued by Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Ahkello Witherspoon (23) in the fourth quarter during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. USC defeated Colorado 21-17. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

18. Tennessee Titans (via LA)

JuJu Smith-Schuster

WR, USC

Mariota still doesn’t have a target he can look to on the outside with any confidence. JuJu Smith-Schuster may just be the one they’re looking for. While not popular in all circles, the USC product has game. He mixes a blend of size, speed, quickness and agility. Though not overpowering, his greatest asset is making plays after the catch. He runs physical and is hard to tackle and bring down. If the Titans can get him into a open space, he’ll be a terror.

Sep 17, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Jacob Eason (10) is sacked by Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) in the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

19. Baltimore Ravens

Charles Harris

OLB, Missouri

Missouri has built a reputation for producing quality edge rushers in recent years. Charles Harris looks like another intriguing project they’ve almost finished. While not quite the physical monstrosity Aldon Smith was, Harris is proving quite the hunter for them. His motor is non-stop and he shows explosion off the snap to get the edge before blockers can often get back in time. He’s put on good weight over the past year too, so he’s better equipped to stay on the field every down.

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) in game action against the Oregon Ducks in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Ohio State won 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

20. Washington Redskins

Pat Elflein

C, Ohio State

Pat Elflein has been one of the most dependable blockers on one of the best offensive lines in college football. His mix of athleticism, intelligence and run blocking power make him the ideal solution at the center position. Washington loves to run the football. Putting him in the middle with Brandon Scherff and Morgan Moses on the right side would make for quite a powerhouse trio. Cousins wouldn’t have much to fear behind that line.

Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Jazz Peavy (11) is tackled by LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) after catching a pass during the second quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

21. Buffalo Bills

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Jamal Adams is his kind of guy. Like many defensive backs from LSU he boasts a solid combination of size and athleticism. What stands out though are his instincts. Adams is adept at reading what an offense is going to do and making a play often before they can execute. Sniffing out screen passes and filling run gaps are a talent of his. That should not overshadow his considerable range in coverage either. A legitimate two-way safety who can patrol the back end.

22. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Adoree Jackson

CB, USC

Adoree Jackson might be one of the best athletes in the entire class. He’s proving himself a quality cover corner for USC, but his value goes beyond that. He can also return kicks thanks to his speed and agility. Playing receiver isn’t out of the question as well. It comes down to how creative the coaching staff is in using him. Bottom line is he can play some solid defense. Corners who can play man coverage are a key to building a winning foundation.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) catches a 51 yard touch pass from Jake Coker (not pictured) against the Clemson Tigers during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

23. Green Bay Packers

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

It’s clear the Packers want to open up their offense more. For that they need a tight end who can stretch the middle of the field, using speed and height to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties. O.J. Howard isn’t always used that way at Alabama, but it’s clear he possesses all of those traits when they do. He’s a basketball type of athlete who can run so well for a guy his size. His hands are solid and it’s almost impossible to stop him when he’s not given top priority by the defensive scheme.

Sep 10, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) makes a reception for a touchdown in the second quarter against the UCF Knights at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

24. Denver Broncos

Jake Butt

TE, Michigan

Jake Butt might be the guy they’re looking for. Already a sturdy blocker at Michigan, he’s really come into his own as a pass catcher over the past year. He has the tools a team looks for. Not just tall at 6’6″ but also strong enough to handle physical coverage. His hands are able to make the tough catches and he has enough gears to beat linebackers and safeties down the seam. Maybe not a true explosive option but a well-rounded talent.

Oct 1, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) scores a touchdown during the third quarter of the game against the Memphis Tigers at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mississippi won 48-28. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

25. Houston Texans

Evan Engram

TE, Ole Miss

This involves adding even more options in the passing game. Tight end is a position that hasn’t been a huge factor for them this year. Evan Engram is another quality prospect emerging in a talented class. Built much in the Jordan Reed style, his game is centered around being a pass-catching threat. He’s a great athlete for his size and has a feel for how to get himself open and make the catch. He’s bound to see opportunities with Hopkins and Fuller on the outside.

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

26. Kansas City Chiefs (via SEA)

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Alabama has long been a program known for producing quality linebackers. Dont’a Hightower and C.J. Mosley are recent examples. Reuben Foster looks like he might be next on that list. Like any player in that Nick Saban scheme, he’s an excellent downhill run defender who can shoot gaps and make tackles. Foster however is a good athlete who shows flashes of being able to drop in coverage. He doesn’t get a ton of publicity, but the talent is definitely there.

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

27. New England Patriots

Demarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

Demarcus Walker is somebody the Patriots would like. He’s not the ideal body construct, but he’s a good football players. He’s been a productive pass rusher for Florida State, a top program. He’s aggressive and carries himself with a winning edge on the field. Better still he brings some versatility as a special teams peformer as well. New England always likes guys who can do more than one thing. Walker is the kind of player whom they would enjoy moving around.

Oct 1, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) knocks the ball out of the hands of Rutgers Scarlet Knights wide receiver Andre Patton (88) at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

28. Dallas Cowboys

Marshon Lattimore

CB, Ohio State

One name that is being overlooked is Marshon Lattimore. That’s a surprise considering he plays for Ohio State. Still it’s just a matter of time before people figure out he can play. He’s got the size-athleticism combination teams look for. Best of all his nose for the football is really coming into his own. Teams are learning it’s not just about coverage skill with him anymore. Now he understands how to take the ball away. Marinelli is eager for guys like that.

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

29. Oakland Raiders

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

Raekwon McMillan would make for a definite upgrade in the speed and athleticism department alone. He also boasts good size for the position. That’s why he’s able to play all three downs. He’s a sure tackler who’s solid against the run but shows plenty of comfort in coverage. Given his pedigree and growing experience, the Raiders should be able to start him right away. His impact will be subtle at first but over time become more apparent.

Dec 31, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Dede Westbrook (11) catches the ball as Clemson Tigers cornerback Cordrea Tankersley (25) tackles in the second quarter of the 2015 CFP Semifinal at the Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

30. Atlanta Falcons

Cordrea Tankersley

CB, Clemson

He may have played second fiddle to Mackenzie Alexander last year, but Codrea Tankersley is making a name for himself this season. At 6’1″ he has ideal corner size and shows an ability to hang in the hip pocket of receivers to knock away passes. Most teams will focus on his 40-time but the tape shows he’s got enough speed to play on the boundary by himself in man coverage. Besides, with Trufant on the other side he won’t have to cover the best receivers anyway.

Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Jake Rudock (15) throws a pass as he pressured by Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40) during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

31. Pittsburgh Steelers

Jarrad Davis

LB, Florida

The beauty of Jarrad Davis is he can be of help in almost every aspect. He’s an athletic and rangy player who can cover lots of ground. He’s aggressive at the line of scrimmage, able to bring heat as a blitzer. In coverage? Though not a natural in coverage he understands what his job is in such situations and is rarely beaten badly by his assignments. The versatile ways in which he can be utilized make him exactly the type of reinforcements this defense needs.

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

32. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

How fortunate they are then that the 1st round pick they swiped from Minnesota enables them to land Stanford star Christian McCaffrey. This young man is the real deal. He’s got the size, toughness and power to play the traditional between-the-tackles role. At the same time his speed, vision and agility make him a nightmare for defenders in the open field. Doug Pederson is a crafty offensive coach at heart. He’ll love the possibilities presented from that pick.