2017 NFL Mock Draft: Bold Trades Reshape The AFC

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

As week two prepares to get underway, here is an updated outlook for next year in the latest 2017 NFL mock draft, including a number of bold moves.

Keep in mind that the pecking order for these mock drafts will be based off the most recent power rankings. So they are liable to change from week to week until the actual order starts to crystallize.

1. Cleveland Browns

DeShone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

So Hue Jackson starts off the new era of Browns football by grabbing the quarterback of the future. DeShone Kizer is already showing that he is a unique talent at the position. Playing for Notre Dame he’s schooled in a pro system but plays like a classic college dual threat. He has the live arm to deliver strikes to anywhere on the field with velocity and precision. To top it off he’s got a pair of fast legs, enabling him to escape trouble and pick up big gains on his own.

Sep 10, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) carries the ball during the second half against the Troy Trojans at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

2. New Orleans Saints (via CHI)

Saints get #2 pick

Bears get #5 pick, 1st in 2018 and 2nd in 20172

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

The Saints decide to move up in order to get their guy. Like always it costs a lot, but with Sean Payton in place and a host of young, quality offensive pieces it’s as good a time as any. Besides Deshaun Watson is the kind of singular talent that can make it all worth it. He’s got tons of athletic skill and speed for a runner, but that doesn’t mean he’s a scrambler. Watson plays the position like a pro, standing in the pocket and delivering balls with accuracy, timing and poise.

Sep 10, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Prairie View A&M Panthers running back Dawonya Tucker (13) rushes as Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett defends during the first quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

3. Tennessee Titans

Myles Garrett

OLB, Texas A&M

Not since the early days of Jevon Kearse have they had that. At last things change with the selection of Myles Garrett. The Texas A&M stud has as complete a repertoire for a pass rusher as one gets coming out of college. He’s got enough size and power to play defensive end but is a fluid athlete with speed and burst. That makes him a versatile, matchup nightmare because he can rush from so many different positions. Schemes won’t matter. He’ll find his way to the QB.

Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) leaps over Wisconsin Badgers safety Leo Musso (19) during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

4. Miami Dolphins (via SD)

Dolphins get #4 pick

Chargers get 3rd in 2017 and WR DeVante Parker4

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

Not just that but they may have gotten themselves a franchise building block. Leonard Fournette might be the most talented back to come out of college since Adrian Peterson. He’s got the ultra-rare mix of size, power, speed, quickness and vision to where he can do almost anything he wants on the field. He’s a load to bring down and if he gets to the second level it’s all but over. Don’t discount his versatility either. Receiving is something he can do too, even if it’s not often. Let Ryan Tannehill feed that monster and see how good Jarvis Landry and Kenny Stills become.

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

5. Chicago Bears (via NO)

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

Not to worry. The Bears take a big step (literally and figuratively) in the right direction by selecting Alabama standout Cam Robinson. He was the starting left tackle for the national champions in 2015, so right away it’s apparent he has some game. Like most Crimson Tide lineman Robinson is a big, powerful blocker who gets tons of push in the ground game. Length is not a problem either and he seems to possess the needed foot quickness to handle himself in pass protection.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) puts the pressure on Western Kentucky Hilltoppers quarterback Mike White (14) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

6. Atlanta Falcons

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

Jonathan Allen is going to remind Dan Quinn so much of Michael Bennett. Like the Seahawks defensive lineman, Allen is a hybrid type in that he’s got the burst and quickness of an end but also the size and strength of a tackle. That allows him to move inside and outside depending on situation, making his impact as a pass rusher even more effective. Allen is a tone-setter who plays with an edge. Teammates feed off him, and that’s what the Falcons are missing.

Apr 11, 2015; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of the Clemson spring game at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

7. San Diego Chargers (via MIA)

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Mike Williams would already be considered a top 10 pick this year had he been able to play in 2015. Unfortunately a freak neck injury forced him to miss the season. He’s healthy now though and ready to show why he’s the best receiver in the class. Aside from being an inviting 6’3″ target, he’s got a strong pair of hands and good leaping ability to go up and get the football. To top it off there is a enough speed to his game where he can threaten defenses deep.

Sep 4, 2015; Kalamazoo, MI, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) runs though the tackle of Michigan State Spartans linebacker Darien Harris (45) during the 2nd half of a game at Waldo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

8. Tennessee Titans (via LA)

Corey Davis

WR, Western Michigan

Corey Davis makes sense in a number of ways. At 6’3″ he has the required frame that gives Mariota a bigger target on the outside but he also represents what the coaches are looking for. Davis is a dedicated receiver to his craft. He doesn’t rely on talent alone. His routes are sharper than normal and he has a degree of speed in his game that allows him to pop the big play from time to time. A well-rounded target who should be able to produce right away.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) rushes as USC Trojans offensive tackle Zach Banner (73) defends during the third quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

9. Indianapolis Colts (via TB)

Colts get #9 pick

Buccaneers get #11 pick and 4th in 20179

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

An electric edge rusher is something they haven’t had since Chuck Pagano took over. A true outside linebacker who fits their 3-4 scheme like a Von Miller or Justin Houston type. Tim Williams is fast becoming the runaway favorite for that spot in the 2017 class. Some even think he’s a better pure rusher than Garrett thanks to his speed and violent hands. His light weight makes him limited in run defense at times, but give him an opportunity to cut loose and nobody escapes.

Sep 3, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) calls a play at the line against the Florida A&M Rattlers during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

10. San Francisco 49ers

Brad Kaaya

QB, Miami (Fl.)

He’ll want somebody who is good at reading defenses, can deliver the ball with accuracy and timing while also featuring a bit of mobility to keep plays alive. That describes the game of Brad Kaaya pretty well. Already boasting a wealth of experience at Miami, the 6’4″ kid is showcasing greater and greater comfort in a pro-style offense. He knows how to stand in the pocket and attack mismatches in coverage. Given the upheaval with that program, it also shows he can handle adversity.

October 24, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) catches a pass to score a touchdown against the Utah Utes during the second half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via IND)

JuJu Smith-Schuster

WR, USC

The 2017 draft might be the most opportune time to do so. Some good options will be available and JuJu Smith-Schuster could be right at the top. At 6’2″ he boasts solid size for the position and is a willing blocker. What sets him apart though is when he’s got the ball in his hands. He has the speed, quickness and agility of a return man, able to make defenders miss without losing stride. Throw in the vertical threat that goes with it and one can imagine how good he’s look across from Evans.

Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (31) during the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

12. Detroit Lions

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

That is not going to cut it in the NFC North, let alone the rest of the conference. This team needs another capable cover corner opposite Darius Slay. Fortunately they’re in position to land Jalen Tabor. Another quality man cornerback from Florida, he fits the profile with a 6’0″ frame, long arms and fluid athleticism allowing him to match up with almost any receiver on the field. He’s rarely beaten in coverage, featuring good recovery speed and solid ball skills. There are some maturity question marks to sort through but nothing too severe at present.

Sep 10, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) picks up a first down against Charleston Southern in the first half at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Beil-USA TODAY Sports

13. New York Giants (via BUF)

Giants get #13 pick

Bills get #21 pick, 3rd in 2017 and 4th in 201813

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

That is why the team, knowing their window for a championship is becoming limited by the age of Eli Manning, decide to make the aggressive push up the board for Dalvin Cook. While not quite the hulking beast Fournette is, Cook is more of a balanced back who has the strength and toughness to grind out yards between the tackles but is also a persistent threat in the passing game. His vision allows him to see the hole quickly and there’s enough acceleration in his lower body to hit it. That’s what the Giants want.

Nov 14, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jared Cornelius (1) carries the ball beside LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) in the second half at Tiger Stadium. Arkansas Razorbacks defeated LSU 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

14. Baltimore Ravens

Jamal Adams

SS, LSU

It would be just like the Ravens to secure a talent like Jamal Adams outside the top 10. The LSU standout is not just another solid SEC player. He is a legitimate talent who showcased his versatility. Given his size and aggressiveness, he’s often at his best when he plays downhill. The hits he delivers come with pop and his instinct for sniffing out plays shows up repeatedly. This doesn’t take away from his athleticism either as he can play deep coverage too.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) catches a pass in front of USC Trojans defensive back Chris Hawkins (4) during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

15. Dallas Cowboys

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

So they decide to go for broke by grabbing somebody in the 1st round. He may not be the feature target in the offense most of the time, but every time the Crimson Tide have called on O.J. Howard, he has delivered. The tight end features that basketball talent in that he’s athletic enough to stretch the field and win 50/50 battles for the football with regularity. Blocking isn’t his strength but he does it willingly and has room to improved.

Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

16. Cleveland Browns (via PHI)

Malik McDowell

DL, Michigan State

It would be mission accomplished if they were able to get Malik McDowell out of Michigan State. Right now he’s more of a three-technique defensive tackle who uses quickness and length to generate pressure up the middle. However, his 6’6″ frame should be able to sport considerably more mass, enabling him to make the switch to 3-4 defensive end. There the Browns will be able to use him creatively, using his size for run defense on the edge and then his burst for pass rush on the interior.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers wide receiver Taywan Taylor (2) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

17. Jacksonville Jaguars

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Teams are always on the lookout for inside or middle linebackers who aren’t two-down types. They want guys they don’t have to take off the field. Reuben Foster is one of those types. He can run sideline to sideline making tackles, is an aggressive blitzer and shows no problems flipping his hips and running backwards in coverage. If Jacksonville is looking for a hunter that makes ball carriers pay, then this is the guy they want.

September 2, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) runs with the football past Kansas State Wildcats defensive back Dante Barnett (22) and defensive back Donnie Starks (10) during the second quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

18. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

One area they weren’t able to figure out was running back. Ryan Mathews can’t be seen as a long-term options and none of the others on the roster could become true feature backs. Doug Pederson likes to run the football in order to protect his quarterbacks so Christian McCaffrey makes a ton of sense. He’s a strong runner who can break tackles but is known even more for his versatility. He can catches passes and is deadly in the open field.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a ball for a touchdown during the first half against the USC Trojans at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

19. Oakland Raiders

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

The name that is shooting up boards of late is Marlon Humphrey. Like any Alabama corner he’s a good athlete who is well-coached in the fundamentals and technique. He plays sticky man coverage and features a big enough body at 6’1″ to match up against almost any receiver. His ball skills are solid and isn’t prone to making big mistakes. If he can learn to improve his tacklings he might be the most complete cornerback in this class.

Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

20. New York Jets

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Notre Dame

One thing Brian Kelly has built his foundation on at Notre Dame is quality blocking in the trenches. In the past two years his program has put two tackles in the 1st round of the draft. Ronnie Stanley is starting at left tackle in Baltimore and Zack Martin became a Pro Bowler by switching to guard. Mike McGlinchey looks like another in the assembly line. Like those two he has a mix of athleticism, intelligence and sound fundamentals. He does fear getting after it in the run game either.

Oct 3, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Roderick Johnson (77) lines up during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Florida State defeated Wake Forest 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

21. Buffalo Bills (via NYG)

Roderick Johnson

OT , Florida State

Some people remain skeptical of the 2017 tackle class since there are no blue chip top 10 guys. At least none that come without questions. Roderick Johnson is however a 1st round talent. He’s been one of the most dependable blockers at one of the best programs in college football. He guarded the blind side of Jameis Winston and now opens running lanes for Dalvin Cook. He’s a big guy with power who has the nimble feet to handle himself in pass protection.

Nov 14, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Ricky Jones (4) reaches for an overthrown pass against Michigan Wolverines safety Jabrill Peppers (5) during the second half at Memorial Stadium. The Michigan Wolverines defeated the Indiana Hoosiers in overtime 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports

22. Kansas City Chiefs (via WAS)

Chiefs get #22 pick

Redskins get #25 pick and a 4th in 201722

Jabril Peppers

SS, Michigan

That’s the cost of being a talented team in the modern NFL. Sometimes really good players get let go. The trick is being able to replace them via the draft. Not easy, but not impossible. That is what John Dorsey endeavors to try when he jumps up the board in a deal with Washington for Michigan safety Jabril Peppers. Though still raw in terms of playing a singular position, Peppers is the kind of freak athlete that can play almost anywhere. He’s got the size, physicality, range and instinct for safety. All he needs is time to hone his craft.

Nov 14, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) dives in for a touchdown in the first overtime against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Michigan defeats Indiana in double overtime 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

23. Houston Texans

Jake Butt

TE, Michigan

Not to worry. Rick Smith is always a man not to ignore an opportunity. The Texans find their solution early by taking Michigan standout Jake Butt. The coaches will love him right away for his solid ability as a blocker. Under the guidance of Jim Harbaugh though he’s begun to really develop as a pass catcher. Every bit of 6’6″, he presents a big and inviting target with good hands and the concentration to make tough catches even when blanketed by coverage.

Oct 11, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes in for the sack on Chattanooga Mocs quarterback Jacob Huesman (14) during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

24. Cincinnati Bengals

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

Tennessee standout Derek Barnett is their kind of player. He’s strong, aggressive, quick and features the body type of a classic 4-3 defensive end. There is no skimping on his responsibilities. While rushing the passer is his priority, Barnett also takes his job of stopping the run seriously as well. His consistency is what jumps out about him. He may not have quite the upside of Garrett, but he’s already a solid performer who can produce against top competition.

25. Washington Redskins (via KC)

Tre'Davious White

CB, LSU

LSU standout Tre’Davious White was considered a 1st round prospect in 2016. So another year in school to mature and hone his skills against SEC competition should make him a plug-and-play starter by the time he gets tot he NFL. He may not stick out in terms of size or true speed but he’s got enough of both to be successful. What sets him apart are his ball skills. If a pass comes within his field a vision the odds are he’s going to get at least one hand on it.

Nov 14, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Charles Walker (88) os tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

26. Seattle Seahawks

Zach Cunningham

OLB, Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt isn’t usually a school that produces 1st round picks, but from time to time they’ve been known to deliver a quality talent. For 2017 that may be linebacker Zach Cunningham. Not only big at 6’3″, his speed and athleticism show up in space. He has no problem tracking down ball carriers and seems comfortable dropping back into coverage. His tackling is a bit shoddy, but the Seahawks have been known to correct such problems with their unique approach.

Sep 3, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) prepares to defend Miami (Oh) Redhawks wide receiver Sam Shisso (10) during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. The Hawkeyes won 45-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

27. Arizona Cardinals

Desmond King

CB, Iowa

Since teams aren’t going to test Peterson often, it stands to reason the Cardinals want a corner on the other side with top notch ball skills. Desmond King was all about that in 2015 for Iowa. He hauled in eight interceptions and was a constant pest in coverage. Teams will frown on the fact that he’s just 5’11” but his job won’t be covering the biggest receivers on the field. What matters is can he stick in coverage and make plays? The answer is yes to both questions.

Oct 3, 2015; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) runs the ball after a catch against Pittsburgh Panthers defensive back Dennis Briggs (20) during the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

28. Pittsburgh Steelers

Bucky Hodges

TE, Virginia Tech

While Howard and Butt are getting the bulk of the attention among the top tight end prospects, Virginia Tech hopeful Bucky Hodges is gaining a sleeper following. At 6’6″ he’s got plenty of size. A former quarterback, he shows an advanced ability to read coverages and as a result understands how to exploit them. Add in some plus speed and athleticism and this is a dangerous pass catcher who can hurt defenses no matter where he lines up. Put him in that Steelers attack? Forget about it.

Sep 27, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive linesman Adam Bisnowaty (69) knocks the helmet from Akron Zips defensive lineman Cody Grice (36) while blocking during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Akron won 21-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

29. Carolina Panthers

Adam Bisnowaty

OT, Pitt

Many felt Adam Bisnowaty would’ve been a 1st round lock in 2016 but he chose to return to school. He’s already a technically-developed blocker with the mix of size, length and fundamentals that make him an able pass protector. He’s also a force in the ground game, opening up holes for the running backs. While he may not have quite the upside of others in the class, he will likely be the most ready to play. Dependability means a lot to the Panthers at this point.

Nov 21, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) tackles Michigan State Spartans quarterback Damion Terry (6) to force a fumble in the first quarter at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

30. Denver Broncos

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

Raekwon McMillan is one of the top defenders in one of the top programs in college football. That should say something, right? He’s a classic type of inside linebacker in that he’s physical, tough and racks up tackles like a hoarder. Blitzing to attack the quarterback is something he can do as well. His size may indicate to some he’s not overly rangy, but the truth is he’s got some speed and can handle himself well in coverage.

Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Buckeyes defeated the Fighting Irish 44-28. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

31. Green Bay Packers

Pat Elflein

OG, Ohio State

As incredible as the 2016 Ohio State class was, Elflein may have been one of the best players on that roster. His decision not to declare means he’s almost certain to be a 1st round pick. He is the best interior lineman in the class, able to play guard or center. A determined run blocker who rountinely opens holes for backs while also showing plenty of pop with his hands in pass protection. Expect him to start from day one wherever he ends up.

Oct 11, 2014; Columbia, MO, USA; Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Hutson Mason (14) is sacked by Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Charles Harris (91) during the second half at Faurot Field. Georgia won 34-0. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

32. New England Patriots

Charles Harris

DE, Missouri

Charles Harris might be considered undersized for the defensive end spot, but in a hybrid role where he’s allowed to maximize his talents as a rusher he could be deadly. He is quite proficient at knifing into the backfield, both applying heat on the quarterback and also making tackles for loss. When allowed to play aggressive Harris is a handful for offensive linemen. Instinct, athleticism and pursuit are the strengths of his game. All things Bill Belichick can take full advantage of.