NFL 2017 Mock Draft: DeShone Kizer Goes No. 1

Sep 17, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) attempts to throw the ball against the Michigan State Spartans during the first quarter of a game at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

The 2017 NFL Mock Draft season in now upon us. The 2017 NFL Draft class isn’t exactly 1983 for quarterbacks but there are a couple worthy of high picks. And no, I’m not talking about Deshaun Watson.

The Spread Offenses college teams use are ruining college quarterbacks for the NFL. They put up insane numbers but don’t play the game the same way an NFL quarterback does. Therefore, they aren’t close to ready when they get to the NFL.

I mentioned in a previous article that Cam Newton is the only one with sustained success in it.

He was able to do so while learning the pro game without injuries injuries because he’s 6’6″ 260 pounds. The NFL caught up to Colin Kaepernick and Robert Griffin III before they caught up to the NFL. Alex Smith and Ryan Tannehill took a long time to develop and they’re not special.

Marcus Mariota is still struggling in Year 2 while Jared Goff, the 2016 No. 1 overall pick, is on the bench. Therefore the pro style quarterback is a safter bet, leading us to Brad Kaaya and DeShone Kizer. They read defenses and have the freedom to get themselves into a better play against a given defense.

Andout of those two, Kizer is better because of his size and athleticism.

Turn the page to see where he goes and what happens after.

Sep 17, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws in the fourth quarter against the Michigan State Spartans at Notre Dame Stadium. MSU won 36-28. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Deshone Kizer

QB, Nortre Dame

I expected to see some growth this year and for him to be all he can be the following year. But for that, he would have to take to Jackson’s coaching and apparently he forgot about one part. He forgot about the part where you protect yourself to live for another play.

So in 2017, the Browns are left to start over at quarterback and the best prospect there is DeShone Kizer. Kizer comes complete with size, a rocket launcher arm and athleticism. And they run the Spread Offense and a pro style offense at Notre Dame.

So he’ll be prepared for the mental aspect of playing quarterback in the NFL as well. He’ll also have receivers Josh Gordon, Terrelle Pryor and Corey Coleman and tight end Gary Barnidge to throw to. If he gets protection Kizer will play well right away.

Sep 10, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) throws a pass during the second half against Florida Atlantic Owls at Hard Rock Stadium. The Hurricane’s won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Kaaya

QB, Miami

According to NBC’s Pro Football Talk, the players would rather see Colt McCoy start at quarterback now. So at No. 2 overall in 2017, the Redskins select Brad Kaaya to take over at the position. Kaaya comes from a pro style offense so he is ready to come in and play right away.

He reads the defense and throws the ball down the field with anitcipation, into tight windows. Head coach Jay Gruden did very well to get Cousins as good as he was last year. But unfortunately, poise under pressure is not something you can coach into a player.

Kaaya has trememdous poise so Gruden could no doubt turn him into a franchise quarterback. It helps that he would have a fully loaded offense with guys like DeSean Jackson. And finally, Kaaya could possibly to give that Redskins team something to believe in.

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

Myles Garrett

EDGE, Texas A&M

It doesn’t help that edge rusher Hau’oli Kikaha and interior d-lineman Sheldon Rankins are out with injuries. Rankins broke his fibula and could be back as soon as a month from now. Kikaha has no such luck as he is out for the season with a torn ACL.

You don’t know what kind of player Kikaha will be when he gets back so an edge rusher is a must. You can always use another edge rusher if Kikaha can make it back in good shape anyway. So at No. 3 overall, the Saints pick a great prospect in Myles Garrett.

If Garrett could have come out last year, he was good enough to go in the top 10. He’s good enough to go No. 1 overall now but the Top-2 teams need quarterbacks. So the Saints get possibly the best player in the draft to set their defense off.

Nov 14, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

And quarterback Blake Bortles is still throwing it all over the yard to receivers Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns. But unfortunately, all over the yard has been to the other team way too often. Bortles threw 17 interceptions as a rookie, 18 last year and has three already this year.

The Jaguars need to ask Bortles to do a little less while taking care of the ball and resting his defense. That requires running the ball more but the Jaguars aren’t getting much out of their running backs these days. T.J. Yeldon is a disappiontment to date and Chris Ivory has had an illness.

So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Jaguars select running back Leonard Fournett to put an end to that trouble. Then, Bortles will turn the ball over less as he won’t have to do as much as he has to now. And the defense will be even better making the team hard to beat on 2017.

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the fourth quarter as Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle D.J. Jones (93) defends at Camping World Stadium. Florida State Seminoles won 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

Behind quarterback Tyron Taylor and receiver Sam Watkins, the Bills are explosive and can score from anywhere on the field. But on third down, especially this year, that offense can’t keep themselves on the field. And that keeps the defense on the field for much too long, making them tired.

Ryan lost two starters on defense already but still has them playing well when they’re not on the field all day. But with no running game to keep the offense on schedule, they stay on the field all day. Running back LeSean McCoy just isn’t as effective as he was a few years ago.

So at No. 5 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Bills select Dalvin Cook to get back to the “ground-and-pound.” Cook is a great as a pure runner and receiver out of the backfield plus he’s a willing pass protector. He’s a bell-cow that you don’t have to take off the field so he is worth the high selection.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) and USC Trojans offensive tackle Zach Banner (73) in action during the game at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Williams

OLB, Alabama

And Luck has weapons galore on that offense to put points on the board. Where the Colts have problems these days is on defense, particularly on the front-seven. They need to rush the passer much better than they have lately.

So at No. 6 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Colts take Tim Williams to bring that heat off the edge. Williams has incredible burst off the edge reminding many of Derrick Thomas. He was a pass rush specialist in 2015 but grew into a full-time OLB.

Robert Mathis is getting up there in age at 35 and has had a few injuries lately. So he can possibly play one year on the other side of him and show him the ropes. Then the Colts will have a better defense to try to get back on top in the AFC South.

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

Cam Robinson

OT, Alabama

So here in the 2016 season, Cutler is still trying to get it done without decent pass protection. And that hasn’t worked out very well as Cutler has committed costly turnovers to start the team 0-2. I like running back Ray Langford, and receivers Kevin White and Alshon Jeffery.

But the Cutler can’t consistently find the receivers with accurate throws with turnstiles for tackles. Yes the Bears are weak at both right and left tackle with the edge rushers they have to play against. So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Bears select Cam Robinson.

Robinson comes from an Alabama program that gets their players ready for the NFL. So Robinson with come in ready to protect Cutler’s blind side right away and do it well. Then if they take care of the right side, the Bears will be ready to make a move.

Nov 21, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Jalen Tabor (31) breaks up Florida Atlantic Owls wide receiver Darius James (89) pass in the endzone during second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Florida Atlantic Owls 20-14. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Tabor

CB, Florida

That isn’t to say that the defense lost both games for the Dolphins as the offense has done their part. The offense is 33 percent on third down so they send the defense back on the field quickly and often. But two solid corners would turn the defense into a unit that could win games.

So the Dolphins get one in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, selecting Jalen Tabor at No. 8 overall. Tabor is one of those corners that can do it all, playing press-man, off-man and zone. Joe Haden and Vernon Hargreaves went to the NFL from Florida to do their respective things the NFL.

So there’s there’s no reason to believe that Tabor can’t go in there and do his thing. If paired with another solid corner, opposing teams won’t be able to pass on the Dolphins defense. And of quarterback Ryan Tannehill gets it together, they’ll become a threat in the AFC East.

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

Jonathan Allen

DL, Alabama

Of course, Suh is the superstar that got most of the sacks while Fairley was the run stuffer of the two. Right now, it looks like the Lions need to do the same thing in order to fully replace Suh and Fairley. The Lions drafted A’Shawn Robinson, from Alabama, in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft and he’s coming along.

But they need another defensive tackle to form that wall as fellow defensive tackle Haloti Ngata is aging. So at No. 9 overall, the Lions select Jonathan Allen, also from Alabama, to effectively replace Suh and Fairly. These two would make a great combination as they played together at Alabama already.

In this case, Robinson is more of the run stuffer and pocket pusher while Allen is the penetrator. The 6’3″, 292-pound 3-4 end will transistion seamlessly into a three-technique as he already does on passing downs. The Lions defense would be on the way back up by picking Allen with the No. 9 overall selection.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) breaks up a pass intended for Clemson Tigers wide receiver Artavis Scott (3) in the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

On offense, the Titans just have to wait on young quarterback Marcus Mariota, who cost the Titans the season opener. He will eventually get it and the exotic smash-mouth attack will take effect soon. No one will complain about the Titans’ offense when the 2017 season comes.

But the defense could be a top unit with a better back end, especially a shut-down corner. So at No. 8 overall, the Titans pick Marlon Humphrey, who’s is ready to come in and ball. In his matchup with top receiver prospect Juju Smith-Schuster, he held him to just one catch for nine yards.

Humphrey also had an interception that he returned for a touchdown. Humphrey is just the kind of cornerback a blitzing defense led by Dick LeBeau needs to help shut opposing offenses down. Then all the Titans need is for Mariota to get it together next year to climb up the standings.

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

Roderick Johnson

OT, Florida State

Yes, I’m waiting to see 2016 No. 1 overall Jared Goff make his debut with the Rams just like the rest of you are. But I also believe the Rams are a little reluctant to play Goff behind that offensive line the way it is. I’m not sold on Case Keenum but he can do better than he is with better protection.

Everyone talks about how Sam Bradford is brittle but any quarterback would be with the protection he had with them. Both tackles are getting abused in pass protection right now but the Rams need to start on the left side. So At No. 11 overall the Rams select left tackle Roderick Johnson to solve the problem.

From there, left guard Roger Saffold should move to right tackle and Robinson should move to right guard. Then the Rams can throw Goff out there to see if he can help put points on the board. And if they can keep running back Todd Gurley going along with that, the Rams become a dangerous team.

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

DeShaun Watson

QB, Clemson

As a matter of fact, he’s been to the NFC Championship Game twice and the Super Bowl once. And watching Gabbert play tells me that the 49ers don’t want Kaepernick to play if he doesn’t have to. I’m guessing that Kaepernick will get his wish at the end of the year and get traded.

Holdouts and trade request rarely end up in quarterbacks staying with the team they were already with. Plus he may have worn out his welcome in San Francisco with all the protesting he’s doing these days as well. So in this mock, I have the 49ers selecting DeShaun Watson at No. 12 overall to take his place.

The Spread Offense is about the only offense Watson can go in and have an impact right away. I can’t see him getting picked any earlier because the NFL is learning that it takes Spread quarterbacks too long. But he won’t get past Kelly’s 49ers as he could do well right away for them.

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

Malik McDowell

DT, Michigan State

However, both are playing with poise and intelligence and have earned their respective team’s trust. Both rookie quarterbacks have solid pass protection and are surrounded by solid position players. The difference between the 2-0 Eagles and the 1-1 Cowboys is more than Terrance Williams not going out of bounds.

It’s the defense, where the Eagles are ranked No. 4 and the Cowboys are ranked No. 18 after two games. And it all starts up front, where the Eagles have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL. Sure, the Cowboys will be better there when they get DEs Randy Gregory and DeMarcus Lawrence back from suspension.

But they need a better interior pass rush too so they pick Malik McDowell with the No. 13 overall pick. McDowell’s rare blend of power and athleticism for a man his size will allow him to come in and ball right away. And the Cowboys would become contenders with Tony Romo or Prescott at quarterback. .

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) in the first quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Reuben Foster

ILB, Alabama

The Raiders it pulled out in Week 1 against New Orleans Saints but lost to the Atlanta Falcons last week. They got beat by a bunch of fleas so I have to put them on the flea-list until I see they do something about the defense. The Raiders hope their secondary can straighten up because they spent a lot of money on it this offseason.

But it’s more than the secondary, the inside linebackers can’t stop the run or cover. You have to at least be able to do one so the Raiders will draft an inside linebacker in 2017. And that inside linebacker will be Reuben Foster, who’s balling down there at Alabama right now.

Foster is as physical as it gets, often coming up with momentum changing hits. And he’s not one-dimensional, he has the speed and agility cover backs and tight ends. The Raiders may finally be ready to live up to all the hype when they make this pick.

Sep 3, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Jake Rudock (15) looks to pass as Utah Utes defensive tackle Lowell Lotulelei (93) rushes during the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Lowell Lotulelei

DT, Utah

That is not a recipe for winning football games so the team has to do something about this quickly. Not even quarterback Matt Ryan, receiver Julio Jones and running back Devonta Freeman are enough to make up for it. The Falcons have yet to hit on the draft picks and free agent signings they’ve made lately.

So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Falcons need to hit on interior defensive lineman to take care of the problem. And at No. 15 in that draft, the team can’t and won’t allow Lowell Lotutelei to pass them by. If his brother Star Lotulelei is any indication, Lowell Lotulelei will come in and ball for the Falcons.

Lotulelei is a run stuffer that can help the Falcons’ run defense plus he can push the pocket back. Opposing teams would have to double and triple-team him, leaving others free to make plays. And an improved Falcons defense would turn the Lotulelei sibling rivalry into division rivalry as well.

Adoree Jackson

CB, USC

They have great front-seven that’s among the leauge’s leaders in sacks but the cornerback position is a problem. It doesn’t feel right to say that about a team that has Darrelle Revis on it but I have to. Opposing teams have thrown bombs over Revis Island like Baghdad in the first two weeks this season.

And they will continue to go after him deep plus they have no problems going to the other side. It will take some time but Revis will adjust to who he is now vs who he was soon. And part of that may be for him to no longer follow the opponent’s best receiver all over the field.

So at No. 16 overall, the New York Jets select Adoree Jackson, a world class ahthlete. With that athleticism, Jackson can come in and at least take care of speed receivers right away. And Revis can still be effective covering receivers in the NFL that aren’t so fast to help the pass defense.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) runs with the ball during the third quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Juju Smith-Schuster

WR, USC

With OLB Melivn Ingram ILB Denzel Perryman and that secondary, that defense has every level covered. On offense, quarterback Philip Rivers has help from the running game for the first time in a very long time. Melvin Gordon, the 2015 first-round pick, has gotten on track in Year 2.

He already has three touchdowns to none last year and he’s coming off his first 100-yard game in the NFL. But Rivers lost trusted target Keenan Allen for the season with a torn ACL. When the season ends, Allen will have played only nine of the last possible 32 games for the Chargers.

So at No. 17 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Chargers go ahead and select Juju Smith-Schuster. Smith-Schuster will be a steal as he is now suffering from not having quarterback Cody Kessler anymore. The Chargers will then become a big-time threat to win the AFC West in 2017.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

So the Buccaneers can help quarterback Jameis Winston, who has a ton of pressure resting his shoulders, even more. Yes, he already has receivers Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson along with running back Doug Martin. But a top-flight tight end would make the Buccaneers offense unstoppable.

Giving Winston a tight end that no one can match up with would be unfair. So at No. 18 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Buccaneers select O.J. Howard to give him that. Howard is much to fast for linebackers and at 6’6″, 250 pounds, he’s way to big for the secondary to stop.

And yes, he run blocks well too so the Buccaneers don’t have to bring him in just for passing downs. The only guy that can stop him at Alabama now is head coach Nick Saban, who’s doing a good job. But when he gets to Tampa Bay, Winston will enjoy steeling chunks of yards with him.

Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Anthony Wales (20) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) and defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Raekwon McMillan

ILB, Ohio State

And in the passing game, Smith has receivers Jeremy Maclin and freak athlete Cris Conley and tight end Travis Kelce. On defense, they await the return of OLB Justin Houston but this looks more like a non-season for him. Next year, he’ll be back and the Chiefs will get after oopposing quarterbacks.

The secondary should be fine with cornerback Marcus Peters and All-Pro safety Eric Berry. But Chiefs fans can see from the first couple of games that stopping the run is a problem. Inside linebacker is especially a problem so at No. 19 overall in 2017, the Chiefs select Raekwon McMillan.

McMillan is a physical, downhill, attacking linebacker that can come in and boost the Chiefs’ run defense right away. So we can expect the Chiefs to climb up the run defense rakings when he gets there, Then the Chiefs just might have that team Smith can go to the Super Bowl with. .

Sep 3, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; UC Davis Aggies safety Ryan Parenteau (28) defends against Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) in the third quarter at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

Royce Freeman

RB, Oregon

The Seahawks are at their best when they run the ball and play defense with the Legion of Boom. But Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch has retired so the physicality of the running game is gone. Thomas Rawls is trying to relace him but he’s injured already again this year.

I don’t think it’s a good idea to go foward trying to make Wilson something he isn’t or trust Rawls. It’s time for the Seahawks to get another bell-cow that can set the physical tone. So with the No. 20 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Seahawks select Royce Freeman.

Freeman has the speed and agility of a scat-back and the size and power (5’11”, 230 pounds) of a bell-cow. Like Lynch in his day, Freeman is a master of elusiveness, breaking tackles and yard after contact. He can replace Lynch and make the Seahawks Super Bowl contenders again.

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

Jamal Adams

SS, LSU

The Bengals have a solid offensive line too so there is no real weakness on that side of the ball. They don’t have many weaknesses on their defense either but there is one at the strong safety position. Starting strong safety Shawn Williams is bad in coverage and even worse while playing the run.

The Bengals brought Taylor Mays back after he played well in a brief stint with the Raiders. But they cut him darn-near as soon as he signed with them because he couldn’t stop smoking bud. So with the 21st overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Bengals get a good one when they pick Jamal Adams.

Adams can play in the box, in man coverage, deep half and single-high safety at a high level. With all the talent over there already, the defense would no longer have a weakness on it. And the Bengals could possibly get over the hump in the playoffs for the first time in the Marvin Lewis era.

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

Mike McGlinchey

OT, Nortre Dame

So to get to that level, the Cardinals traded for edge rusher Chandler Jones to improve the pass rush. Then the Cardinals came into this season still stacked on the offense and defense and favored to win it all. But the reality check came for the Cardinals in the form of the Tom Bradyless New England Patriots.

The Patriots have trouble with elite teams with Brady so the Cardinals don’t make that list just yet. In order to take that next step, the Cardinals have to protect their quarterback better against the elite teams. So with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the team selects Mike McGlinchey.

Left tackle Jared Veldheer is okay but it isn’t working out with right tackle D.J. Humphries. There were issues with his work ethic from the minute he got to Arizona so we’ll see if that improves. Meanwhie, they can bring in some competition to make him step up or step out.

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

Charles Harris

EDGE, Missouri

Justin Forsette is there for the runnning game to go along with the fleet of receivers at Flacco’s disposal. We’re finally getting to see 2015 first-round pick Breshad Perriman after he missed his first year with injuries. Fellow speedster Mike Wallace was brought in and appears to be back to form.

And to do the dirty work, making the tough catches over the middle, Steve Smith Sr. is back. Speaking of being back, OLB Terrell Suggs is coming off the edge, putting heat on opposing quarterbacks. The rest of the defense is solid too and it looks like they’ll get opposite OLB Elvis Dumerville back this week.

But tomorrow is not promised to either OLB so the Ravens select Charles Harris in the 2017 NFL Draft. Harris has the burst off the edge and the counter moves to come in and heat things up right away. This pick is a good way to assure the Ravens will have something good coming off the edge in 2017.

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

Desmond King

CB, Iowa

That front-seven and everything else on that defense is already in place for the Panthers. And quarterback Cam Newton is chomping at the bit to get back to the Super Bowl and try to win it next time. But this year so far, you can clearly see that the Panthers are missing Norman in that secondary.

So at No. 24 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Panthers select Desmond King to fill that void. King was a shut-down cornerback in 2015 but was advised by the advisory board to stay in school. They told him he needed to work on his speed to become a top pick in the NFL.

Running a 4.6 40, Norman isn’t exactly fast either and that’s not they only thing they have in common. They both can play man, have the instincts to play zone and the ball skills to get interceptions. In the Panthers defense, King can go in and make his mark right away.

Sep 17, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) catches a pass and rushes for a touchdown against the USC Trojans during the first half of a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Christian McCaffrey

RB, Stanford

So at No. 25 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots select Christian McCaffrey. He’s far from the best running back in college football but by far the best college football player. He’s not a bell-cow because bell-cows have the size to pass protect and for short yardage situations.

Belichick will use McCaffrey the same way the Saints used Reggie Bush on the 2009 Super Bowl team. Belichick would probably even go a step further with McCaffrey, using him in more than one role. He would use him as a return man and a slot receiver like Julian Edelman’s and Danny Amendola.

Then he would use him out in space as a scatback the way he used Danny Woodhead at one time. With a weapon like McCaffrey to go with TEs, Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett, Brady would have it even better. He could dink and dunk his way to at least one more Super Bowl before he’s done.

Oct 24, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) rolls out to pass on a two point conversion against Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the fourth quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Barnett

EDGE, Tennessee

Afterall, they did draft quarterback Aaron Rodgers when Brett Favre was still doing his thing. When you’re a perennial contender that doesn’t have any pressing needs, you can do that. So I don’t expect things to be any different for the Packers when they draft next year.

Therefore I have the Packers taking edge rusher Derek Barnett at No. 26 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. Obviously, Julius Peppers stars on the other side of superstar Clay Matthews III right now. But he’s not he’s not going to play forever and he would be good to take Barnett under his wing.

Then when the Sun sets on his career, there will be a young guy ready to take his place. Nick Perry is playing well in spots right now too so there will be some competition to play alongside Matthews. There’s always major competition when you have a perennial contender with a great roster.

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

Bucky Hodges

TE, Virginia

But Osweiler needs securty blanket tight end to go to over the middle when the coverage is rolled outside. It would help him avoid taking unnecessary chances with the football, leading to interceptions. So with the No. 27 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Texans select Bucky Hodges.

At 6’6″, 245 pounds, Hodges is fast for his size and will be an absolute matchup nightmare in the NFL. It’s pretty hard not to see a guy that size running wide open down the seam. When Osweiler finds him, all he has to do is throw it up there with the catch radius Hodges has.

With linebackers biting on playaction, that will give him another step on them to make a big play. Then Osweiler would have no excuses for not getting the job done in 2017. And with J.J. Watt and company on that defense, there’s no telling how far this team can go.

Sep 17, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Ohio Bobcats wide receiver Sebastian Smith (6) and Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Cameron Sutton (23) during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Cameron Sutton

CB, Tennessee

And sure, he’s accurate too but has it from the neck up, where it’s most important, to get the job done. One of the most important things he as is the knowledge of how to change protections with defensive fronts. He also gets the Eagles out of bad plays altogether and into a play more favorable.

His offense is fully loaded to with a great pass protecting offensive line, and young skill position players. The Eagles also have a fantastic front-seven that can stop the run and get after opposing quarterbacks. However, the team could definitely use a corner to fill one of the holes they have there.

So with the No. 28 overall pick, the Eagles select Cameron Sutton to take care of the problem. He could have went in the first round last year but instead went back to Tennessee for his Senior year. He’ll end up on a team that needs him and will be ready to go to the playoffs in 2017.

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

Dan Feeney

OG, Wisconsin

And while the Broncos have an much improved offensive line, they have a weakness at one of the guard spots. Max Garcia allows too much pressure on the quarterback for Trevor Siemian to do his thing. The Broncos defense is great but the Roethlsberger will put more points on the board than Siemian.

So with the No. 29 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Steelers select Dan Feeney from Wisconsin. The guard has a first-round grade and played in the zone blocking system while he played at Wisconsin. He has that first-round grade because he can run block and is solid in pass protection as well.

The Broncos will still have the core of that all-time defense and run the ball with running back C.J. Anderson. And with Feeney in the fold, the pass protection will be good enough to keep a quarterback comfortable. So either Siemian or Paxton Lynch may be able to take the Broncos to the top in 2017.

Sep 10, 2016; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs running back Nick Chubb (27) scores a touchdown against Nicholls State Colonels defensive back Corey Abraham (31) during the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Nick Chubb

RB, Georgia

They’ve reworked their front-seven to stop the run and get after opposing quarterbacks. In Week 1, they stopped the Dallas Cowboys vaunted running game behind that offensive line. Running back Ezekiel Elliott only had 51 yards on 20 carries for an average of 2.5 yards per carry.

In Week 2, they held quarterback Drew Brees to only 263 yards passing and the Saints to only 13 points. I don’t think I have to remind you who Brees is or how dynamic that offense is. And on offense, quarterback Eli Manning will have the offense scoring with Victor Cruz back to go with Odell Beckham Jr.

But even if the team continues to play well and makes the playoffs, not having a running game will hurt. So at No. 30 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Giants select Nick Chubb, a truly gifted running back. Bringing a physical running game, Chubb will complete Giants and have them in serious Super Bowl contention.

Nov 21, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers defensive back Jordan Whitehead (9) runs behind offensive lineman Adam Bisnowaty (69) against the Louisville Cardinals during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Adam Bisnowaty

OT, Pittsburgh

The former No. 1 overall has more talent in his pinky than Bridgewater has in his whole body. He showed after not even two weeks with the team that he can get it done when Peterson is stopped. So he and Diggs will keep the offense afloat during the time Peterson is out.

Then in the playoffs, we’ll get to see the Vikings on all cylinders and Bradford with a solid team. This will aslo be the first time since Brett Favre’s brief stint that Peterson has more than a care-taker quarterback. But the Vikings have problems on the offensive line that will be exposed in the Super Bowl.

Left tackle Matt Kalil, who didn’t play well before his injury, is out of the rest of the season. So at No. 31 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Vikings select left tackle Adam Bisnowaty from Pittsburgh. And he helps make the Vikings a tougher out in the playoffs and the Super Bowl after the 2017 season.

Sep 17, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) makes a pass during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Alabama won 48-43. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

Chad Kelly

QB, Ole' Miss

So this past offseason, the Steelers tightened up their secondary and they’re off to a 2-0 start in 2016. The offense is going to be even more explosive when tight end Ladarius Green comes off the PUP list. That gives the Steelers everything they need but God forbid Roethlisberger suffers an injury.

I don’t believe that happens this year but if it were to happen, the Steelers would be screwed right now. So in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Steelers select Chad Kelly as an insurance policy and evenentual replacement for Roethlisberger. This is a young Steelers team so when Roethlisberger hangs ’em up, they will still have prime years left.

Since Kelly is coming from the Spread Offense, it will take him a few years to learn the pro game. Otherwise, he has a lot of the same traits as Roethlisberger with the big arm and toughness. So after he learns from him for a few years, Kelly will take over and the Steelers will keep winning.