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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Buccaneers Take Help Over the Top

By Alan Schechter

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) intercepts a pass intended for Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) intercepts a pass intended for Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Is it possible the Cardinals have any better draft luck here?

Losing Tony Jefferson hurts, but gaining Malik Hooker to play alongside “The Honey Badger” Tyrann Mathieu is almost too good to be true. With Carson Palmer showing a bit more of his age every year, and Larry Fitzgerald nearing the end of his playing time, the Arizona defense will need to step it up to keep their games close.

David Johnson can take over a contest by himself, but is best when helping his team wear down the clock and opposing forces.
Hooker is a true playmaker in every sense of the word. His ball skills are amazing and his willingness to crash down against the run is admirable.

He’s gotten some critics who say his tackling is a weakness rather than a strength, but while it may not be his biggest strength, I believe his tackling abilities are underrated.

Arizona has found themselves blessed after taking a risk on the troubled Mathieu coming out of LSU.

Taking a shot on a one-year starter coming off of off-season surgeries, should yield them the same return.
A potent starter who will create headaches for opposing quarterbacks all season long.

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