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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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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) prepares for a play during the second quarter of the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) prepares for a play during the second quarter of the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

With the eight overall selection in the 2017 NFL draft the Carolina Panthers select Jonathan Allen, defensive end out of Alabama. Panther fans, rejoice! After falling out of the top five, Allen finds his home in Carolina who are on their way to somehow finding a way to beat the Buccaneers. (Joking, or am I?)

Allen has been, and will be a force to be reckoned with once he reaches the NFL trenches. The Alabama standout was one of the main cogs in one of the best front sevens college football has seen for over a decade. Allen’s force across the defensive line has made his reputation into being a top five talent on most draft expert’s boards. So why the drop? Allen’s injury history is something to take note of, but it is not enough for Carolina to pounce on another defensive line talent.

Carolina’s aging defensive ends are an issue, and after trading Kony Ealy to the New England Patriots, it is time to plan for the future. Allen is the pick here.

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