My favorite time of year is draft season. I know, it might be odd to some of you, but I suspect some of you Buccaneers fans reading this share my enthusiasm.
As much as I love watching Buccaneers football during the regular season – and post-season soon enough – I have to say the evaluation and anticipation of which draft picks will head where is a passion I cannot deny.
The first three days of the leagues season always bring rumors, big signings, bigger trades and the occasional surprise or five.
Until probably mid-February I never imagined DeSean Jackson would be showing off a Bucs jersey, but here we are.
Oh, and then Brandin Cooks heading to New England in return for first-round compensation? Come on, some of us were vaguely aware of trouble brewing in the Saints’ wide receiver group, but this? Nobody predicted this.
Players have switched teams and teams are in turn adjusting their draft plans. Let’s see how this might shake out.
It’s Mock Draft Time!
I’ve begun playfully referring to Myles Garrett as Laremy Tunsil ’17 as he continues to dominate this year’s draft conversation.
The 6’5” defensive end is simply the best prospect in this class, and despite what the Browns have done in free-agency, they still need plenty of help.
Cleveland’s defensive front isn’t horrible when looking at potential. Danny Shelton and Emmanuel Ogbah are young and raw.
Adding Garrett to the mix will certainly help the groups progression as a whole and will allow the team to get some pressure without dialing up blitz after blitz.
The good news this year is I don’t hear a lot of rumblings from the Dawg Pound about wanting a quarterback this early.
They’ll still be in the market for one further down the line, but hey, Brock Osweiler may be the man to save this franchise!
Previously: Myles Garrett, DE – Texas A&M
Hiring John Lynch to be their new general manager was a sneaky good move by this franchise, and he’s been making sneaky good signings leading up to the draft next month.
Marquise Goodwin and Aldrick Robinson were both sleeper wide receivers I had identified who wouldn’t break the bank, but could have big impacts on their new team.
Adding Pierre Garcon to this bunch gives San Francisco a good start to rebuilding their offense post Harbaugh/Kelly/Colin Kaepernick era.
Must Read: Chris Baker is the Key
The trendy pick here will likely be either quarterback or safety. I mean, why wouldn’t a former safety take a new safety.
Well, for one, if he’s trying to repair the offense with his offensive minded head coach.
Kyle Shanahan did wonders in Atlanta and is known for his ability to get an offense moving.
Drafting Mike Williams from Clemson here fits what he’s done already, and gives bridge quarterback Brian Hoyer a solid group of weapons to work with.
Previously: Jamal Adams, S – LSU
With the 49ers drafting receiver with their first pick in the draft, the best safety in the class is waiting to head to Chicago.
The Bears did some work to boost their secondary by signing corner Prince Amukamara.
Adding Jamal Adams to their defensive backfield will give them a respectable group, which they’ll need if they want to compete with the likes of Green Bay.
More on them later, but for now, this team needs to simply get the best guy available as they really can’t turn down help at any position besides running back.
Adams will be an instant starter for the Bears and his versatility in both the run and pass defense is going to help his teammates play faster and with more confidence.
This isn’t the solution they’ve been looking for, but Chicago will certainly start to believe they’ve got something going when they see him on the field.
Previously: Marshon Lattimore, CB – Ohio State
Shout out to Luke Easterling who projected this pick in his own free-agency updated mock draft.
It just makes too much sense at this point to really argue with.
For the second straight year, the Jaguars have been legitimate players in free-agency.
Adding A.J. Bouye, Calais Campbell, Barry Church and trading for Branden Albert are just the biggest moves.
This team has additions all over their defense and a couple on offense. They’ve provided depth to their offensive line in hopes of giving Blake Bortles some added protection.
Now, it’s time to put a running back behind him as well.
Leonard Fournette is the best pure talent at his position, and if he can stay healthy he’ll help transform Jacksonville’s offense to a respectable unit.
I’ve maintained throughout the process that the LSU back isn’t my favorite this year, but he certainly fits what the Jags are trying to do, and drafting him with T.J. Yeldon already on roster should really be fun to watch.
Previously: Jonathan Allen, DT – Alabama
It’s time for the Titans to fully commit to making Marcus Mariota great, and drafting him a number one receiver has to be the move here.
Last season it was vitally important for Tennessee to bolster the offensive line protecting their top pick from 2015.
They did so, and he still got hurt.
Must Read: Jameis Will Be Alright
He needs a better receiving corps to go with his improved line so he has someone to get the ball out to when needed.
Corey Davis isn’t the second receiver in this class, rather he’s 1a or 1b to Mike Williams depending on what you value more.
Davis doesn’t match Williams’ ball skills, but man does he know how to get open.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like the Western Michigan star doesn’t have elite ball skills, it’s just where his Clemson counterpart elevates a bit higher on tape.
I wouldn’t be completely surprised to see this franchise go wide receiver with both of their first-round picks, although it is highly unlikely.
Still, getting Davis here is the right move to make for their future and quarterback’s health.
Previously: Mike Williams, WR – Clemson
For a team like the Jets they should be looking to stay strong where they’re aren’t weaknesses already, and drafting a solid defensive tackle for the future is the first step.
The first instinct to fix sinking ships is too hastily repair leaks already bringing on water. However, ignoring the places you seem firm will ultimately lead to new and more dire leaks springing when you least expect it.
Defensive tackle Steve McLendon performed admirably replacing a Pro Bowl player from the year before, but he’s not long for this league himself.
In the meantime, Allen can play outside when needed meaning he can be placed in as needed until he’s ready to take over full-time responsibilities.
This team desperately needs a quarterback, but they need one ready to play now.
With Jay Cutler and Tony Romo seemingly still available this team would be smarter to go with one of them and draft a mid-level quarterback to develop behind him.
The Jets have Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg waiting in the wings as well, so some truths need to be discovered about their long-term potential before New York moves forward at all.
Previously: Leonard Fournette, RB – LSU
Malik Hooker’s off-season surgeries are disappointing, but shouldn’t impact his draft status too bad.
He’s still the second-best safety in this class and the Chargers will be elated to add him to their defense along with recently re-signed Jahleel Addae and veteran Dwight Lowery.
Most of Hooker’s highlight plays while at Ohio State consisted of interceptions with multiple impressive returns following.
This has caused the versatile player to be tagged as a pure cover safety, which simply isn’t true.
Hooker plays to the ball, simple as that.
If it’s a run, you can count on him to diagnose the play and come downhill with full force.
When in coverage, he knows how to play center field and can play the ball in the air better than some receivers can.
The Chargers’ last first-round pick in San Diego was a Buckeye, why not make their first in Los Angeles one as well?
They’ll be happy with both for a very long time.
Previously: Mitch Trubisky, QB – North Carolina
Carolina found out the hard way just how much Josh Norman played a role in their defensive success, and now they have a chance to draft a legitimate replacement.
Make no mistake about it, the Panthers do not plan on staying in the NFC South basement longer than the one year they’ve already spent there.
Bringing back Julius Peppers tugs at the heart strings a bit, but he’s got talent to bring to the field and isn’t returning simply for a farewell tour. Believe that.
Mike Adams adds to the ability of their safeties which simply didn’t get it done enough last year.
Captain Munnerlyn was a good step to repairing their perimeter coverage, and now, drafting Marshon Lattimore is all there is left to repairing 2016’s damage.
Must Read: Josh Robinson Returns
Certainly, this team needs some better talent at wide receiver, but they’ll get that later.
Offensive line got some help with Matt Kalil coming to help his brother’s unit out a bit. They’ll get deeper in the second or third round for sure.
Carolina’s offense works best when they can take chances with the lead. They aren’t built to come back from deficits, and the defense last year simply couldn’t contain opponents enough to let Cam Newton get going.
Lattimore is hands down the best corner in this year’s class, and a true Top-10 talent if ever there was one.
Previously: Solomon Thomas, DE – Stanford
In my last edition, I had Cincinnati taking Alabama’s Reuben Foster to come in and help lead their defense.
After his less than stellar combine exit, it seems this pick is just right, even more than before.
He’s not a bad guy, and there’s always more to the story than what we get to read or hear.
Bottom line is, he’s a top talent in this draft at a position the Bengals desperately need help in.
This squad was lacking a true leader last year after the “bad boy” novelty wore down as losing will cause it to do.
Now, the team is drafting in the Top-10 after looking like a budding Super Bowl contender.
They need some leadership and some heart on the defensive side of the ball.
Foster brings both of those things – and oh yeah – he brings loads of talent with it.
Don’t get wrapped up in combine drama too much, this draft pick works too well for both sides not to happen.
Previously: Reuben Foster, LB – Alabama
I didn’t see the Bills bringing back Tyrod Taylor, and since they have, I now don’t see them drafting a quarterback in the first round.
The team needs help along the offensive line, receiving and at corner specifically.
With Sidney Jones’ heartbreaking injury at Washington’s pro day, there simply aren’t any guys here which fit what the team needs.
So, it’s best talent time, and it’s Alabama’s O.J. Howard.
The dual threat tight end can play in-line or standing up, and has blocking skills to go with his superior catching ability.
Charles Clay is a suitable backup, but he’s not going to be breaking the meter on anyone’s threat meters any time soon.
If the team truly believes in Taylor, then they need to bring in a guy who can help make him better and get their offense working the right way.
LeSean McCoy is entering the twilight of his career, so putting an added blocker in front of him can’t hurt.
I still don’t agree with the re-signing, but hey, if you’re adding a guy like Howard it can’t all be bad.
Previously: Deshaun Watson, QB – Clemson
The Saints greatest need entering the draft will certainly not be wide receiver, but it’s not a bad avenue to look at either.
With zero quarterbacks going in the Top-10 and Sidney Jones out of the first-round, some names New Orleans would have liked to see waiting here simply aren’t.
Trading Brandin Cooks shows their remaining roster this isn’t a franchise likely to deal with self-centered drama for long if at all.
Drafting John Ross gives them a faster option who honestly, may be the better receiver when everything plays out anyway.
I predicted in the 2016 pre-season Cooks would be outplayed by the team’s second-round pick last year partly because of my confidence in Thomas, but also because of the lack of maturity I’ve seen with the former Oklahoma State star.
Must Read: DeSean Sees Potential
I don’t necessarily mean maturity in emotional growth, but as an NFL receiver.
Ultimately, he’s a guy who will either take a screen pass the distance or burn an opposing secondary who slipped up in their coverage.
He’s not going to run a full tree, and I’m not sure he ever will successfully.
Ross is similar entering his rookie season, but has at least shown the willingness to put effort into routes at varying levels throughout the field.
With this, the team keeps their speed threat opposite of Thomas, and has another first-round pick to continue bolstering one of the league’s worst defenses of 2016.
Previously: Sidney Jones, CB – Washington
Until this team parts ways with either Cody Kessler or Brock Osweiler, I simply can’t mock a quarterback to them with their second pick in the draft.
The latter will need to mature quite a bit – and this time I do mean emotionally – but the first is probably the best option this year to start.
So why not draft a quarterback here?
Simply, this team is not a quarterback away from being a good team.
How many times have we seen a player with potential go under center for the Browns just to have all his potential smashed to oblivion? Too many times.
This franchise needs to build a roster which a guy could actually come in and lead. They simply don’t have it right now.
What they do have is five picks in the first two-rounds of the draft.
Taking a player like Quincy Wilson here makes the defense better, and puts talent on the field to play opposite Joe Haden.
Along with top pick Myles Garrett, this defense now has some foundation and can start looking like a unit which could help keep Kessler and his offense in striking distance of winning a few games.
Previously: Corey Davis, WR – Western Michigan
For the record, I’m not a fan of drafting players in the first-round teams aren’t expecting to start right away.
Deshaun Watson to Arizona is something that needs to happen if Bruce Arians wants to keep Arizona relevant post Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald.
Watson has the raw talent needed to give the franchise confidence they’ll have a capable man under center moving forward.
Pairing his own abilities with running back David Johnson and future additions to the offense will help Arizona keep up offensively.
Later on, expect Arizona to address defense a bit more including finding a suitable replacement for departed safeties Tony Jefferson and D.J. Swearinger.
This move is certainly for the future which won’t bring a whole lot of immediate excitement to Cardinals fans.
A year or two from now though, they’ll be happy their franchise had the foresight in this draft to pull the trigger on Watson here.
Previously: O.J. Howard, TE – Alabama
The Eagles need to move on from Ryan Mathews, and drafting Dalvin Cook could be the cherry on top of an impressive free-agent haul.
Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith are going to go nicely with Jordan Matthews and last year’s top pick Carson Wentz.
Now, Philly can improve their backfield play as well with the Florida State standout who some say had a rough combine, but all say looks amazing on tape.
Good news Eagles fans, there aren’t cones on an NFL field.
Must Read: Bucs Bring In J.J. Wilcox
I don’t know if Philadelphia has the defense to keep their offense out of shootouts all year, but with this addition, they’ll have enough offense to stay in most of their games.
The NFC North isn’t getting easier, it’s getting harder.
While the Giants are improving for the second straight year, the Cowboys are looking to ride last year’s success right into a dominant 2017.
Washington is a footnote for the moment, but hey, any given Sunday, right?
In this offense, with these other weapons around him, Cook would be a pre-season favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Previously: Dalvin Cook, RB – Florida State (Indianapolis – Prior to Coin Flip)
Missing on the top receivers and running backs is going to hurt, but there’s hopes for the Colts drafting an impact player yet.
Cam Robinson from Alabama has slipped down some boards, but he’s still my favorite tackle prospect this year.
The guy is about as good a run blocker as you’re going to get, and while his pass protection needs work, I’ll take a guy great at one thing and build up his other any day.
He has some technical issues, sure, but for the Colts to put him at right tackle he’d be a sure upgrade to the line currently protecting Andrew Luck.
Indianapolis will still need a running back at some point, but this position is too high to reach for any remaining on the board.
There’s talent to be had later on for other position groups, but adding a top tackle to a line already equipped with last year’s first-round pick Ryan Kelly, will help Luck get the Colts back on track.
Previously: Malik Hooker, S – Ohio State (Philadelphia – Prior to Coin Flip)
Since Baltimore now has one of the best safety duos in the NFL, this means they can focus elsewhere in the first round of this year’s draft.
Signing Tony Jefferson to play alongside Eric Weddle is genius.
It won’t single handedly turn this defense into what it once was, but it goes a long way to helping establish its own identity.
Helping the team get on track offensively needs to be the focus here, and David Njoku is the best guy to do it.
The tight end position may not be sexy, but scoring is.
Njoku gives Baltimore a good target throughout the field and a dangerous weapon in the redzone.
He doesn’t block like an O.J. Howard, but his work ethic alone should help him grow in that aspect of his game as his career builds.
Short term, he’s going to help soften the blow of losing Steve Smith.
If Breshad Perriman can become what we thought he would, then the Ravens have the makings of a very nice offensive attack.
Previously: David Njoku, TE – Miami(FL)
I’m not sure I should wish getting drafted by the Redskins on any quarterback here, but alas, I do what I must.
If Washington won’t commit long term to Kirk Cousins, then both sides need to part ways so each can find a more suitable option.
For the record, Mr. Snyder, there are multiple teams who would love to give your guy at least a three-year deal, so maybe be happy with what you’ve got.
If not, then draft Mitchell Trubisky out of North Carolina.
Must Read: Grading the Bucs' Free-Agents
He’s got intangibles and promise. Now all he needs is a year to develop more and a bridge quarterback to lead the way.
Hey! The Redskins have that!
What they don’t have is weapons. Losing both DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon is bigger than most are making it.
Jamison Crowder has talent and so does Terrelle Pryor, but can they be a dominant duo? I’m not so sure.
This could be a surprise location for another running back to come off the board as well, but for now, I feel like the move for this team to make is grabbing a quarterback.
All signs point to Cousins playing elsewhere in 2018, if he even makes it to the 2017 season with this franchise.
Previously: Forrest Lamp, G – Western Kentucky
After adding a number one receiver with their first draft pick, the Titans turn to defense for their second.
Jarrad Davis has been quietly climbing boards, and for good reason.
The linebacker from Florida can make plays and is a run-stopping machine.
If Jacksonville selects Fournette, then this guy will be needed to help stop him twice per season.
Facing the Colts and Texans, Davis will certainly prove his worth keeping Frank Gore and Lamar Miller to modest numbers.
Overall, Tennessee is trending the right way, and getting some defensive talent will only accelerate their climb.
Look for this pick to start a defensive themed few days for this franchise as their offense looks like it has just about all it needs to push for an AFC South title.
Previously: Tre’Davious White, CB – LSU
The fan in me still wants the safety from Washington to go here, but the roster evaluator says drafting an offensive tackle is the prudent option.
Ryan Ramczyk isn’t going to sell many jerseys, but he’s going to help keep Jameis Winston’s clean.
A key aspect to consider if he’s going to let new receiver DeSean Jackson get behind defenders for some of those signature splash plays he’s known for.
He’ll also help the Buccaneers running game which is in a bit of disarray following the suspension handed down to Doug Martin for drug use at the end of 2016.
Jacquizz Rodgers’ return settled down some nervousness a bit, but not many are even considering him a long-term solution.
We’re all still waiting to see what happens with Martin in the aftermath of all of this, but safe to say the Bucs will be drafting a running back somewhere in day one or two.
There’s a guy from Stanford who could start to gain some steam at this spot, so keep an eye out for his stock levels as well.
Previously: Budda Baker, S – Washington
Speaking of running backs from Stanford, the Broncos could certainly using a draft pick on young Christian McCaffrey.
Didn’t McCaffrey’s dad used to play with some Broncos’ decision maker?
While some noise will be made around the John Elway connection – get it, because Ed McCaffrey was a receiver – this is a guy who really fits a need for Denver.
Not since Terrell Davis has this franchise really had a great running back, but this could all begin to change here.
The early knock on the young back is he doesn’t look like an every down back right now, and this isn’t wrong.
However, the team doesn’t really need him to be quite yet.
Veteran C.J. Anderson had flashes of efficiency last season, and if he knows he’s playing for his next contract with his next team, he’s certainly going to put forth maximum effort.
Must Read: Bucs and Foles Have Interest
This bridge year will let the rookie get acclimated to NFL life and develop physically and mentally a bit more.
In 2018, when he’s ready to take over primary duties, the Broncos will have Devontae Booker available to help carry the load.
Booker had more downs than ups in his rookie year, but flashed the promise which made him my third favorite back in last year’s class.
Previously: Garett Bolles, OT – Utah
The Lions have a lot of beef up front defensively, now it’s time they draft some athleticism to with it.
Apparently, Haloti Ngata is returning for 2017 which is good news for Detroit, albeit temporary.
Detroit needs to find a guy to play inside next to A’Shawn Robinson for the long-term, and one who can pass rush would be ideal.
Malik McDowell from Michigan State fits the bill as a lineman who can play inside or out with success as long as the team can get the most out of their prospect.
He fills an immediate need as a situational pass rusher on the inside, but also sets them up for success when Ngata does call it a career. Which will likely be after this season.
There will be plenty of options at each defensive need this team has, but this one seems to be the most versatile on of all.
For the Lions to return to competing for the NFC North title, they’ll need to get younger and faster. McDowell is both.
Previously: Derek Barnett, DE – Tennessee
The Dolphins need to find an interior lineman in the draft, and Forrest Lamp is the best there is.
How often does a team picking 22nd in the first round get to take a guy who lists atop his position group?
I don’t know, but it must be nice to do it.
Lamp also brings the Miami offensive line some versatility as his collegiate success came at the tackle position.
He translates best to the interior at the NFL level, and I don’t think anyone is projecting him anywhere else.
Still, having a guy who can make the move outside if necessary is a nice flexibility to have.
Jay Ajayi should enjoy this selection more than anyone, but the entire offense will benefit nicely as the Dolphins look to repeat as post-season attendees.
Previously: Takkarist McKinley, DE – UCLA
After what the Giants have done in the first part of free-agency, their biggest draft need is at linebacker, but this isn’t necessarily the way the team will go.
This pick will pave the way for defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul to find a new home in 2018.
In the meantime, he’ll play in sub packages as a pure pass rusher while he works on his technique and becomes a more rounded player.
Must Read: Are the Bucs Hard Knocks Favorites?
Eventually, he should be able to help give New York the best defensive line in their division, and perhaps the NFC.
Teaming up with Damon Harrison and Olivier Vernon will certainly accelerate Barnett’s production curve, and depending on what the Giants do with their second interior spot, he could get more play as a rookie than anticipated.
Previously: T.J. Watt, LB – Wisconsin
With Karl Joseph already showing flashes of being a solid grab, drafting a running mate would secure the top end of Oakland’s defense for the next decade.
Reggie Nelson is a nice player currently filing the free-safety spot on the Raiders’ roster, but he won’t be around forever.
Unless the team plans on jumping from one aging veteran to another, they need to secure some young talent now.
Budda Baker can be their future at the position, and in the meantime, provides some all-important insurance for the Raiders defense and an option to cover down in the slot as a rookie.
This player is one of my favorite in this entire class, and I think whoever gets him is getting a steal outside of the Top-15.
Landing him at 24th is a dream come true for fans of the franchise, and he’ll prove it with early and consistent play.
Previously: Quincy Wilson, CB – Florida
Patrick Mahomes II is very raw, but has enough natural talent to become a very good player once drafted.
For the Houston Texans, they simply have to do something to find a quarterback for the future.
I’m not sure there’s a more patient receiver in the league than DeAndre Hopkins. After enduring the rotation of passers he’s gone through in his career, I’m surprised he’s not holding out for a trade.
After seeing him at the combine and looking deeper into some tape, there’s no doubt that Mohomes has a lot of talent.
He needs someone to help him refine it and convert it to a style suitable for the NFL, and head coach Bill O’Brien could be just the guy.
This team still needs to find a bridge guy like Jay Cutler or Tony Romo, or possibly even Trevor Siemian.
Mahomes isn’t ready to start this season, but could be building towards a bright future.
Previously: DeShone Kizer, QB – Notre Dame
I’m amazed Russell Wilson wasn’t hurt sooner with the offensive line the Seahawks have put around him, but they can start to mend the holes in the fence through the draft.
Beginning with their top pick, selecting offensive tackle Garett Bolles to go along with linemen Luke Joeckel and last year’s first round pick Germain Ifedi; this team can begin protecting their quarterback instead of having him running around in the open.
Much of their running game woes were blamed on the backs themselves. While they certainly have to shoulder some of the blame, I feel the majority should go to the line.
Simply, if there are no lanes to run through, no running back outside of Barry Sanders can make things happen.
Must Read: Bucs Sign DeSean Jackson
The “Legion of Boom” is going to need reinforcements soon, but Seattle can find some help there in day two or three of the draft.
No matter what, this offensive line has to continue building if Wilson is going to be able to have a long and fruitful NFL career.
Previously: Ryan Ramczyk, OT – Wisconsin
Many believe Takkarist McKinley may move to outside linebacker once drafted to the NFL. Either way the Chiefs can use him.
Bringing back Eric Berry was huge for Kansas City.
Now the team just needs to bolster the group in front of him.
Tamba Hali is great, but he’s getting up there in age and someone will need to replace him so the Chiefs can continue some defensive dominance while their offense continues to build an identity.
Losing Jamal Charles was no doubt a tough decision, but a necessary one as the running back simply didn’t stay on the field enough to warrant moving forward with him.
However, the team will still be on the lookout for another back as Spencer Ware doesn’t appear to be a long-term solution either.
Kansas City has the feel of a team about to take off, or about to bottom out.
This draft will go a long way to determining which happens, and drafting Tak is the best thing for the preferred option.
Previously: Charles Harris, DE – Missouri
Dallas did a good job addressing some key needs in free-agency, but should still look to the draft for a cornerback at 28.
Nolan Carroll and Stephen Paea will definitely bring some depth to pretty shallow areas of their roster in 2017.
Getting Gareon Conley from Ohio State will just flat out make their roster better.
The Buckeyes have had some struggles on offense since Urban Meyer took over, but the defense led by Luke Fickell and now former Buccaneers coach Greg Schiano, continue to churn out NFL talent.
Conley is just the latest, and if he turns out to be as effective as some other teammates he’s had enter the league, then the Cowboys will be happy for a long, long time.
Like the Chargers earlier, this would be back-to-back Ohio State kids drafted in the first rounds, but hey, if it aint broke don’t fix it.
Previously: Gareon Conley, CB – Ohio State
By now, the Packers realize the mistake they made letting Casey Hayward go to the San Diego Chargers last year. Here they get a shot to fix it by drafting a young, talented corner from UCLA.
According to his NFL.com scouting report, Fabian Moreau is a,
"“Fluid athlete with good lateral quickness and agility to press and match against plus athletes.” – NFL.com"
What does this mean?
Bluntly, it means the kid can play against top talent.
A press corner is exactly what the Packers need facing the speed in the NFC North.
Knocking guys like Golden Tate, Kevin White and Stefon Diggs off of their routes and off timing with their quarterbacks will be huge to Green Bay’s repeat hopes.
We all kind of saw it coming, but in the post-season, it was the Packers’ lack of defense which ultimately done them in.
They were one game away from the Super Bowl, and if the signing of Martellus Bennett tells us nothing else, it’s that they have every intention of getting over that hump.
Previously: John Ross, WR – Washington
If you’re shocked to see three tight ends in the first round of this mock draft, then you haven’t been hearing enough about the class coming out this year.
There are at least five guys who could play significant roles for their future teams this year, including the three in this.
Gerald Everett may be the third, but don’t think the separation between he and the other two is all that big.
If he’s got any flaw it’s whether or not he really should be considered a tight end at all.
He lines up in the slot more often than inline, so teams who like to use their tight ends in tight will want to know if he can fill that role.
If not, then they may wait to grab one of the middle tier talents in this year’s pool.
Everett is versatile and talented, so I’m sure the Steelers offense can find ways to use him, and if they want him inline then I’m sure he’ll figure out how to get it done.
Pittsburgh fans are going to feel guilty when they start liking this kid more than they liked Heath Miller.
Previously: Christian McCaffrey, RB – Stanford
Jabrill Peppers is a first round athlete in any draft class, I’m just not sure where he fits scheme-wise, which hurts his value.
However, a team like the Falcons just might be what a player like Peppers was meant for.
Playing in the NFC South means playing against three of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
Cam Newton, Drew Brees, and Jameis Winston each bring similarly threatening and altogether different types of play.
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Adding a player like Peppers to their defense gives Atlanta a sort of wildcard which they can then use in each match-up specifically to suit their strategy against each opponent.
For example, against Newton and the Panthers, they can bring Peppers in as an outside linebacker on passing downs to cover a zone but also spy on the quarterback.
With his coverage abilities, he should hold up well in intermediate zones, yet has the athleticism and closing ability to keep Newton from breaking big runs downfield.
Combine this with Deion Jones’ obvious athletic ability from the middle, and this pair could frustrate the former MVP into several bad throws.
Atlanta already has excitement buzzing around their team. Adding Peppers will only intensify it.
See what I did there?
Previously: Taco Charlton, DE – Michigan
With the Saints going offense with their first pick in the draft, here they have to go defense.
When Delvin Breaux missed time for New Orleans in 2016 it was painfully obvious the team just didn’t have depth at the cornerback position.
Tre’Davious White won’t add depth, he’ll start opposite of Breaux and create depth by moving would be starters further down the depth chart.
The clock is ticking on the Saints as Drew Brees inches closer and closer to the end of his career.
While the offense continues to find ways to keep their team in games, the defense ultimately has to be able to close if they want to return to post-season glory.
This is one good step in the right direction.
Previously: Malik McDowell, DT – Michigan State (New England Patriots)
This concludes my second mock draft of the year. Where did I miss in your opinion, and where are my hits?
Better yet, which first-round snub are you most bothered by and are there any names here you absolutely despise as day one selections.
Next: Chris Baker A Key Piece To The Defense
Too many tight ends? Not enough linebackers?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments or on Twitter. I’ll be doing another version shortly before the draft, so I hope you come back and check it out.