2017 NFL Mock Draft: Three Full Rounds of Mayhem

Sep 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) celebrates his sack against Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) (not pictured)in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

This 2017 NFL mock draft is a perfect reflection of how quickly things are changing with this upcoming class and how every team will attack it.

Per usual it’s the quarterbacks and the need for them that is driving things in a new direction. It feels like more teams are entering the fray for a new signal caller, and that inevitably will drive the stock up for the top names in this class. How will this impact the overall results? In several often unexpected ways and with rather surprising consequences both for some players and teams.

1. Cleveland Browns

Myles Garrett

DE, Texas A&M

Myles Garrett is the kind of generational talent that can change the landscape of an entire half of a football team. He’s big, strong, explosive and athletic. The kind of edge rusher who would fit in any defense. Quarterback will have to know where he is at all times and even running backs won’t be able to avoid him all the time. Put him in the hands of an experience coach like Gregg Williams? It’s a quite the intriguing marriage.

Dec 30, 2016; El Paso, TX, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) scans the Stanford Cardinal defense at Sun Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre-USA TODAY Sports

2. New York Jets (via SF)

Jets get #2 pick

49ers get #6 pick, 2nd in 2017, 1st in 2018, 4th in 20192

Mitch Trubisky

QB, North Carolina

Mitch Trubisky is looking more and more like the top prospect at the position in the draft. He more than anybody has the combination of high level talent (arm strength, accuracy, mobility, size) to go along with solid mechanics (release, footwork, ball placement). Doubters will harp on his lack of experience. He only started one season at North Carolina. Still, his maturity level comes across high and teammates swear by his leadership qualities.

Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs with the ball as LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) defends during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

3. Chicago Bears

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Jamal Adams is the most well-rounded safety to come out of college in years. First and foremost he’s a big, tough kid who can be a violent striker on ball carriers around the line of scrimmage. He has the instinct to know where the ball is going before the snap and the range to go make a play on it. This can sometimes overshadow his athleticism. Adam has shown on a number of occasions he can handle covering tight ends or protecting against the deep strikes.

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) walks on the field during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

Jonathan Allen

DE, Alabama

It doesn’t get much more like that than Jonathan Allen. His final two seasons at Alabama ended with a national championship appearance. He expects to win every single week and plays like it. A force up front who will sack the quarterback or get running backs in the backfield for losses. Just a large 290 lbs handful for blockers. His quickness and intelligence also allow him to play inside and outside depending on situation, adding to his value.

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

5. Tennessee Titans

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

There might not be a bigger playmaker than Malik Hooker. Drawing Ed Reed comparisons, he was a revelation this season. The roving thief of the Ohio State defense, he collected seven interceptions and returned three of them for touchdowns. His athleticism, speed, ball skills and size all stand out on tape. This despite just one full year of starting in college. One can just imagine how much better he’ll get with experience.

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) tackles Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9 in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

6. San Francisco 49ers (via NYJ)

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

Top linebackers are often the answer to such a problem. How fitting then that they end up picking Reuben Foster, a young inside linebacker who is drawing comparisons to a former great by the name of Patrick Willis. Indeed he exhibits many of the same qualities. Tough, strong, smart, aware and violent. Ball carriers learn to know where he is at all times because he will flatten them if they aren’t careful. One of those coveted types who does the dirty work.

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos wide receiver Corey Davis (84) stiff arms Wisconsin Badgers cornerback Sojourn Shelton (8) in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers won 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

7. San Diego Chargers

Corey Davis

WR, Western Michigan

Health at wide receiver has been a real nightmare for the Chargers, making life harder on Rivers. So the best thing they can do is add more weapons to increase their depth. Corey Davis remains hovering in the background, but it won’t be long before the Western Michigan star gets his due. This young man is the total package: big, strong, good route runner, solid speed, reliable hands and a hard worker. His 6’3″ frame will be inviting for Rivers and take pressure off Keenan Allen when he returns.

Oct 22, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs past Mississippi Rebels linebacker DeMarquis Gates (3) during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Mississippi 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

8. Carolina Panthers

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

There is none better in the 2017 draft class than Leonard Fournette. Many view him as the best running back to come out of college since Adrian Peterson. A big guy (6’1″, 236 lbs) who has home run speed. Give him any sort of crease, he’ll find it. Get him to the second level and he has the strength and toughness to shed tacklers for big gains. Pairing him with Newton in the same backfield for 16 games a year? That is just downright unfair.

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

9. Cincinnati Bengals

Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

That could change with Derek Barnett coming to town. This kid is such a natural at getting after the quarterback. Collecting 33 sacks in three years of college certainly serves as an example. He is strong with violent hands, able to disengage from blocks without losing forward momentum. He has snap anticipation and good burst off the line. Though not a premier athlete, he moves well for his size and is a true hunter.

Oct 15, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) is consoled by running back Josh Adams (33) after Notre Dame lost to the Stanford Cardinal 17-10 at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

10. Buffalo Bills

Deshone Kizer

QB, Notre Dame

Doug Whaley seems to favor quarterbacks with size, mobility and a big arm. Odds are he’ll fall in love with Deshone Kizer. Scouts have been doing that for two years. His skill set is quite intoxicating. When Kizer really cuts it loose he can fit a ball into some incredibly tight windows. The arm strength is for real and he’s also a threat as a runner. Thus far his problems have been an ability to throw accurately under pressure and diagnose coverages quickly. With better coaching and protection that should improve.

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Damien Harris (34) runs against Florida Gators defensive back Quincy Wilson (6) during the second quarter of the SEC Championship college football game at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

11. New Orleans Saints

Quincy Wilson

CB, Florida

The fact that they tried to trade for Joe Haden says it all. So drafting Quincy Wilson would be the least surprising move in the draft. He fits the type of aggressive defense the Saints like to play. He can survive by himself on the outside due to his size, athleticism and ball skills. Press-man guys who can get their hands on the football. That is what the NFL has become in the past decade. Wilson is the prototype.

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball in the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers won 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

12. Cleveland Browns

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

Deshaun Watson and RGIII are similar in man ways from size to athleticism, throwing style and arm strength. Where Watson differs is his unrelenting pursuit of victory. The young man has lost just two games in two years and now has a national title under his belt. When he’s in a rhythm, with his mobility and playmaking instinct it’s a nightmare trying to stop him. The question is can the Browns give him the tools to work with.

Dec 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) passes against the LSU Tigers at NRG Stadium. LSU won 56 to 27. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

13. Arizona Cardinals

Patrick Mahomes

QB, Texas Tech

Patrick Mahomes is the ideal choice for them in many regards. He’s got an elite-caliber arm, able to fire 50-yard frozen ropes down the field on the run with frightening accuracy at times. He’s tall and showcases far more mobility than Palmer ever had. The problem is he’s just not ready. Mahomes still plays too much of a backyard style. He need time to work on it and he still hasn’t figured out how to live to fight on the next down. A year learning under Palmer and Arians is exactly what he needs.

Nov 26, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a pass for a touchdown while being defended by South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Jamarcus King (7) during the first quarter at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

14. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIN)

Mike Williams

WR, Clemson

Having Mike Williams on the board would be a boon. The Clemson standout has become the #1 target people expected him to be. No receiver in the country has a more palatable skill set. He’s 6’3″ with explosive leaping ability, great hand-eye coordination and deceptive speed. His hands are reliable as proven by the many big catches he’s made for Deshaun Watson. Every QB loves having a big, athletic target who can run. He and Wentz will get along just fine.

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) celebrate during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

15. Indianapolis Colts

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

Since the Alabama route has brought them some good fortune lately with Ryan Kelly, the Colts go that way again with Tim Williams. The outside linebacker was a definite presence that offenses struggled to contain. His burst, aggressiveness and ability to bend the edge often forced quarterbacks to either step up or be dropped for a sack. This has overshadowed his steady ability to keep contain and stop the run. He’d make a fine addition.

October 1, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) brings down Arizona Wildcats quarterback Khalil Tate (14) during the second half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

16. Baltimore Ravens

Takkarist McKinley

OLB, UCLA

Takkarist McKinley has hovered in the background for some time. Not surprising given the competition and how poorly the year went for UCLA. That didn’t stop him from making an impact though. He showcased the kind of athleticism and burst 3-4 outside linebackers are required to have with 10 sacks and 18 tackles for loss in 2016. This kid knows how to penetrate the backfield and make things happen. Baltimore can get on board with that.

Oct 15, 2016; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs past Wake Forest Demon Deacons linebacker Thomas Brown (26) during the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

17. Washington Redskins

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

In that context it is not a bad idea at all for Washington to lock up Florida State running back Dalvin Cook. He is instantly the best running back they’ll have by a mile and the type of weapon that forces defenses to track him on every single play. He’s that versatile. A fast, athletic and tough runner who is dangerous in space. Send him out on a five-yard swing pass and he’ll turn it into a 50-yard touchdown. Just get the ball into his hands and let him create.

Sep 17, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) rushes the ball against the Portland State Vikings during the second half at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

18. Tennessee Titans

John Ross

WR, Washington

John Ross was definitely that for Washington all season long. Don’t be fooled by the shorter frame. He’s a fast, athletic and agile receiver who will burn defensive backs if they give him even a small opening. He runs crisp routes and displays a strong pair of hands. Getting him the football usually results in big plays for an offense. That is something the Titans have been missing from the receiver position.

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) runs the ball while guarded by Clemson Tigers safety Jadar Johnson (18) during the fourth quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

Austin Seferian-Jenkins was a bust at tight end, so finding another option is certainly on the table. O.J. Howard once again proved in the national championship game that he can be a dynamic receiving threat when the game plan centers around him. He’s a big athlete with a basketball-type body who can run with speed but plays a physical game. Linebackers can keep up with him and safeties are outmatched by his size.

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) works at the line of scrimmage during the third quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

20. Denver Broncos

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

Cam Robinson is going to be one of the polarizing players in the entire draft. He has the look of an NFL tackle from his size, length and solid kick step. The problems lay in his overall athleticism and off-the-field problems. Some see him as a tackle, others a guard. One thing is clear though. He’s a classic Alabama blocker in that he can bully defenders with his power. If the Broncos want to run the football, then putting him on the field will have a big impact.

Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

21. Detroit Lions

Solomon Thomas

DE, Stanford

Solomon Thomas was a stud long before but he introduced himself to a national audience when he single handedly ruined the Sun Bowl dreams of North Carolina. Top QB prospect Mitch Trubisky was introduced first-hand to the sheer power, violence, relentlessness and will that Thomas plays with. To say nothing of his considerable quickness and underscored burst. Put him and Ansah together? QBs may have trouble sleeping before going into Ford Field.

Nov 12, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Teez Tabor (31) works out prior to the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

22. Miami Dolphins

Teez Tabor

CB, Florida

Teez Tabor is a talented young man out of Florida who somehow slips to #22. Most believed he could be one of the first corners taken thanks to his mix of size, athleticism and instinct for playing the football in the air. Put him in that secondary and the Dolphins would have a trio of corner with high quality skills. That would instantly reduce the pressure on the front four to make all the plays. It will also be insurance in case Maxwell or Howard regress.

Nov 26, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) hauls in a touchdown catch in front of Duke Blue Devils cornerback Mark Gilbert (28) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Miami won 40-21. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

23. New York Giants

David Njoku

TE, Miami Fl.

David Njoku has steadily climbed boards in recent weeks as his tape continues to make the rounds. People are seeing a big body who can run like a running back but catch like a wide receiver. Njoku is good at getting himself open but is even better after the catch. He attacks defenders and doesn’t go down easily. This is the kind of aggressive style New York needs more of. Besides that Eli has always preferred to have a quality tight end at his disposal.

Oct 15, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Brantley (57) against the Missouri Tigers during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

24. Oakland Raiders

Caleb Brantley

DT, Florida

Caleb Brantley would give them an opportunity to find out. The Florida standout is a classic three-technique style of player in that he uses natural leverage and an explosive lower body to generate a push up the middle. He already excels at tackles for losses. It’s not a huge leap for him to learn how to properly create pressure on the quarterback. If he develops the proper arsenal of moves, it will make life so much easier on Mack and the ends.

Sep 4, 2016; Austin, TX, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Sam Mustipher (53) and offensive lineman Quenton Nelson (56) and offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) during the game against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

25. Houston Texans

Quenton Nelson

OG, Notre Dame

Being the playoff team they are, it would be ideal if they could find somebody who could start and contribute right away. Quenton Nelson is just their sort of guy. Quietly he was the best lineman on the Notre Dame front. A mix of size, power, toughness and nasty who opened holes for his running backs and rarely allowed pressure on Deshone Kizer. His technique is sound and he doesn’t make many mistakes. Sounds like an O’Brien type of guy.

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

26. Green Bay Packers

Malik McDowell

DE, Michigan State

Malik McDowell was a young talent who stood out in an otherwise bad year for Michigan State football. While a little on the thin side, his combination of length, quickness and awareness made him a hassle for offensive linemen every week. His development is still in the early stages. At times he can dominate but then disappears for a few series. Building consistency and adding a little more weight will be just the ticket to get him revved up.

Sep 24, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Wisconsin offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) blocks Michigan State defensive end Evan Jones (85) during the second quarter of their game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY Sports

27. Seattle Seahawks

Ryan Ramczyk

OT, Wisconsin

Ryan Ramczyk has a chance to become one of the top tackle prospects in the draft, which is quite a story. A small school transfer, he started right away for Wisconsin and showcased his athletic upside as a pass protector. Run blocking is also something he can do. If his health checks out, there is good reason to consider him in the 1st round. If he can add strength to his already significant movement ability, he’ll be just what the doctor ordered in Seattle.

Nov 19, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Zander Diamont (12) is sacked by Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Michigan won 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

28. Pittsburgh Steelers

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

That’s why they’d be the perfect landing spot for Jabrill Peppers. His stock has sagged in recent weeks. Though considered arguably the top athlete in this draft class, his tape as a safety is lacking. He can tackle and play the run well, but he’s only got one career interception. That is a severe lack of productivity coming into a league that is pass-first. So the Steelers would be gambling that with time and development he can fulfill his potential. They have the patience and coaching to pull it off.

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

29. Atlanta Falcons

Marshon Lattimore

CB, Ohio State

Now comes the next important step. Namely improving the secondary. Outside of Desmond Trufant the team really doesn’t have any credible options at cornerback. Marshon Lattimore is part of a strong tandem coming out of Ohio State and one who can be lost in the shuffle at times. That’s surprising given his mix of size, man coverage ability and ball skills. Some have argued he’s among the best in the class. If true, then the Falcons just got a gigantic steal.

Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

30. Kansas City Chiefs

Zach Cunningham

ILB, Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt standout Zach Cunningham could be their kind of guy. The fact he’s stood out this much on an otherwise bad roster says a lot. He’s got the size and strength to take on blocks, the instinct to anticipate where the ball is going and a consistent ability to tackle. Blitzing isn’t a problem and there doesn’t seem to be any athletic issues. Just a rock solid linebacker who does his job on every play.

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

31. Dallas Cowboys

Demarcus Walker

DE, Florida State

Demarcus Walker may not win the prize for best athlete in this class but he would make a terrific fit for a 4-3 defensive end. He loves to play with his hand in the dirt, comes off the ball with burst and attitude and doesn’t relent in his pursuit of the football. It’s why he’s been able to rack up so many sacks and tackles for loss. Blockers find he seems to get stronger as the game gets later, which is often counter intuitive for defensive players.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey (68) reacts as quarterback DeShone Kizer (not shown) scores a touchdown in the first quarter against the USC Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

32. New England Patriots

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Notre Dame

Somebody like Mike McGlinchey is their exact type of football players. He’s big, strong, tough, smart and above all versatile. The Notre Dame alum is known best for playing offensive tackle but like most Irish linemen he’s well-schooled at playing multiple positions. He could easily kick inside to guard and thus the Patriots have a player on the roster who could end up being their future at tackle down the road.

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

2nd Round

Next: 3rd Round

Nov 5, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) sacks Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Kyle Shurmur (14) during the fourth quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Auburn won 23-16. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

3rd Round