As I type this, we are less than 48 hours away from the start of the 2017 NFL Draft! The schedule for next season was released last week, and now all attention will be focused on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, for this year’s highly anticipated draft!
Last week I revealed the first version of my mock draft, which was a look at who I believe the teams should take in the 1st Round on Thursday. For this, Version 2.0, I have THREE rounds of picks, looking at what I think will transpire come Thursday and Friday. First, some specifics:
- Picks are listed in a “Round.Overall Pick” fashion. For example, when you see “1.14” that means it is the 1st Round, overall pick #14.
- I have decided to include trades in this mock. Trying to predict trades is nearly impossible, but trades will happen, they always do, so I gave it a shot to see which teams could look to move up or down, and what they’ll be doing with their new picks if/when the trades occur.
- This mock was done over the course of a few days, so some picks were made prior to some news being released about some players. I have provided additional insight where those players fell in my mock.
I will have one more version of my mock draft that will be posted Thursday morning in advance of the start of the draft, and that edition will be less like a mock draft, and more like a draft primer, looking at each team in the first round, what they are most likely to do, as well as some alternative options.
Without any further delay, here is Version 2.0 of We Love Sportz’s 2017 NFL Mock Draft!
Round 1
1.1 – Cleveland Browns
Pick: Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
Do the smart thing Cleveland, please, do the smart thing for once and just take Garrett here. Quit messing around with the idea of taking Trubisky here, and don’t be stupid just this one time. You might still have a chance to get your quarterback, so stick to your board and take the top player. That player is Garrett.
1.2 – San Francisco 49ers
Pick: Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
It is well known that the Niners would love to trade back from this spot, but I struggle to see them getting an offer that they feel is worth the #2 overall pick. Because of that, I think they will stay put and draft a defensive lineman in the 1st Round for the third straight season (2015-Arik Armstead 1.17, 2016-DeForest Buckner 1.7). If a team would trade up here, I see Carolina, Arizona or Buffalo as the teams interested.
1.3 – Carolina Panthers (from Chicago)
Trade Details: Carolina gets 1.3; Chicago gets 1.8, 2.40, 2.64, Future 6th Rd Pick
Pick: Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
There are two players that the Jaguars, picking next, covet most according to rumors, and they are Thomas and Fournette. I believe that these two players are likely at the top of the Panthers’ board as well. This is a big price to pay, as the Panthers will now be without another pick until the end of the 3rd Round, but I think it’s worth it to get the best running back in the class, one that fits what the Panthers want to do perfectly. An alternative trade package would be 1.8, 2.40 and next year’s 2nd Round pick, but the Panthers are already without a 4th next year, so I don’t see them wanting to already be down to five picks in next year’s draft.
1.4 – Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Jonathan Allen, DT, Alabama
The Jags get stuck here, as their top two options go off the board. They’ll listen to trade offers, but won’t get one to their liking, so they’ll stay put and grab another versatile defensive lineman to go with Malik Jackson and Calais Campbell. I feel you can never have too many talented players in the trenches. Allen would give the Jags one of, if not the, best defensive lines in the NFL.
1.5 – Cleveland Browns (from Tennessee via LA Rams)
Trade Details: Cleveland gets 1.5, 3.100, 2018 4th Rd Pick; Tennessee gets 1.12, 2.52, 3.65, 2018 6th Rd Pick
Pick: Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
Remember earlier when I said the Browns might be able to still get their quarterback? I’m not convinced that the Jets will go quarterback at 1.6, but I think most teams will operate under that assumption. The Browns have a bevy of picks with which to make the Titans an offer they can’t refuse. Tennessee is able to get back into the 2nd Round and move up to the top of the 3rd Round with this trade, while still having two 1st Round picks. Everybody wins here.
1.6 – New York Jets
Pick: Gareon Conley, CB, Ohio State
This may come as a surprise to people who have been following the draft process, but word on the street is that Conley’s stock is skyrocketing. A guy who early in the process was expected to be a 2nd or 3rd Round pick now has the potential to be the first defensive back drafted. The injury concerns with his former teammate Marshon Lattimore and a clearer need at corner than safety are the reasons I think the Jets go with Conley.
*Update: Conley has been accused of sexual assault, news that came to light on Tuesday 4/25, just two days before the draft. The alleged crime took place a few weeks ago, but it is still terrible timing. That likely means there’s no way he goes this high, and he will likely slide at least to late in the 1st Round. Conley has yet to talk to police, and likely will not do so until after the draft. That makes him a major risk.
1.7 – Los Angeles Chargers
Pick: Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
The Chargers’ war room would be absolutely ecstatic if the board fell this way. They have a huge need at safety, and they’d get their pick of the litter. Most mocks have them landing Hooker because Jamal Adams would be off the board, but I think Hooker is a better fit for what they want to do anyway.
1.8 – Chicago Bears (from Carolina)
Pick: Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Yes, I do realize this would make three straight members of Ohio State’s secondary going in the Top-10, but these guys are that good. A lot of people believe the Bears would go with Lattimore at 1.3, so to acquire a couple 2nd Round picks and still get their guy, a brilliant move by the Bears.
1.9 – Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Is this the biggest need for the Bengals? No, and I’d argue that it’s not a need at all. But the Bengals have made it known that they would like to improve at the running back position, and many experts believe that McCaffrey could go in the Top-10. The likely landing spot would be Carolina if they stay at 1.8, but after going up to get Fournette, McCaffrey drops right into the Bengals’ laps.
1.10 – Buffalo Bills
Pick: Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
As far as value goes, this is a clear reach. The O-Line class this year is not very strong, but it is a consensus among scouts that Robinson has the highest ceiling, and there are rumblings that some teams will be comfortable reaching for OL help in the 1st Round. Enter the Bills, who could use an upgrade at tackle. They had Robinson in for a visit, so the interest is there.
1.11 – New Orleans Saints
Pick: Reuben Foster, ILB, Alabama
The Saints’ linebacking corps was among the weakest in the league last season. They signed Manti Te’o, but he is not the answer. With Foster falling out of the Top-10, I’d expect the Saints to pounce, as he will be a difference-maker in their defense from day one. They are wasting some great seasons from Drew Brees due to a lackluster defense. The improvement of said defense would continue with this pick.
*Update: I was at this point in the mock prior to the news of Foster’s diluted drug test at the Combine. I do believe this could cause him to slide, but I still expect him to go in the 1st Round.
1.12 – Tennessee Titans (from Cleveland via Philadelphia)
Pick: Jamal Adams, S, LSU
The Bears moved down and still got their guy, and the Titans do the same thing here. I think they might prefer to get one of the top corners, but almost every mock I’ve seen has Adams going in the Top-10, so for him to be available at 1.12, I think the Titans would sprint to the podium with this pick. ESPN’s Scouts Inc. has Adams rated as the #2 overall prospect in this year’s class. Incredible value for the Titans.
1.13 – Arizona Cardinals
Pick: DeShone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
You can call this a hunch, but I’ve felt all along that Kizer is the quarterback that Bruce Arians wants, and I don’t think he’ll be able to wait until the 2nd Round to get him. It makes the most sense for the Cards to get Carson Palmer’s eventual replacement, and Kizer will benefit greatly from getting to watch from the sidelines for at least one season.
1.14 – Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota)
Pick: Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Do I think the Eagles should go wide receiver with this pick? No, but I get the feeling that if Williams falls to them and Reuben Foster doesn’t, then Williams will be the pick. I would also expect them to shop Jordan Matthews if they take Williams. I think their biggest weakness is in the secondary, but it’s a deep class there, so they can address it later on.
1.15 – Indianapolis Colts
Pick: Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
As with Cam Robinson earlier, this is probably much too early for Ramczyk, but teams are going to reach for help along the offensive line, and the Colts need that more than maybe any team outside of Seattle. They need to do a better job protecting Andrew Luck, and Ramczyk can start at RT from the get-go.
1.16 – Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
After trading Timmy Jernigan to Philadelphia, the Ravens have a gaping hole in their roster on the defensive line. They can choose to go with an edge rusher to eventually replace Terrell Suggs, but Barnett, who is more a power rusher that can play on the edge or inside, is a much better fit. Position versatility is the key here, but in addition, the analytics crowd LOVES Barnett. If he can produce like they believe he will, he’s an absolute steal at 1.16.
1.17 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Washington)
Trade Details: Tampa Bay gets 1.17; Washington gets 1.19, 4.125, 2018 4th Rd Pick
Pick: O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
There are rumblings that O.J. Howard could be a Top-5 pick, but I think that’s the media overblowing his stock. I think it’s certainly possible that he goes earlier than this, but if he falls, I think the Bucs would love to add him to their offense. They give up a couple 4th Round picks to jump ahead of Tennessee and give Jameis Winston another huge weapon.
1.18 – Tennessee Titans
Pick: Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Double down on 1st Round defensive backs? Only because the Bucs jumped them to grab Howard. The Titans major weakness last year was their secondary, and they did sign Logan Ryan in free agency, but he is best suited playing in the slot. For that reason, they get Humphrey here, a guy who has the skill set necessary for a #1 cornerback. The secondary is well on its way to becoming a strength for this team.
1.19 – Washington Redskins (from Tampa Bay)
Pick: Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
The Redskins are able to move back, acquire a couple 4th Round picks, and still get a player they’d have been happy taking at 1.17. Reddick has been a workout warrior in the pre-draft process, boosting his stock big time at the Senior Bowl and the Combine. He played defensive end at Temple, but he projects as a three-down linebacker in the league. The Redskins certainly could use one of those.
1.20 – Denver Broncos
Pick: Garret Bolles, OT, Utah
The Broncos had Bolles in for a visit, and as long as they are comfortable with his attitude, this pick makes too much sense for it not to happen. Regardless who’s playing quarterback, they need to do a better job protecting him. Bolles has the potential to be one of the best left tackles in the league.
1.21 – Detroit Lions
Pick: Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
There are some durability concerns with Davis, but after cutting DeAndre Levy, the Lions need to look to improve their linebacking corps early in this draft. I think Haason Reddick would be a dream scenario for them, but he went two picks earlier, so they go with Davis, who has the ability to play inside or outside, but he is one of the best run stoppers in this linebacker class.
1.22 – Miami Dolphins
Pick: Forrest Lamp, OG/OT, Western Kentucky
This is another team that I would think would be all over Reddick if he got to this point, but with both Reddick and Davis now off the board, I think the Dolphins would move to another position and improve their interior offensive line. Some scouts think Lamp is the most talented offensive lineman in this class, but they also think he is best suited at the guard position. Miami got their left tackle last year in Laremy Tunsil, and they might get their left guard this year.
1.23 – New York Giants
Pick: Evan Engram, TE, Ole Miss
There are no shortage of places for the Giants to go here if the draft would fall this way. Many expect them to go linebacker, but they haven’t taken one in the 1st Round since the mid-80’s. With Davis and Reddick off the board, it’s even less likely than usual. They could also draft their quarterback of the future, but I think they are built to win now, and I think they’ll lean towards getting Eli Manning another weapon. Engram’ stock is gaining a lot of momentum, and many think he’ll go in the 1st Round. Add him to the Giants’ pass catchers and that offense becomes that much scarier.
1.24 – New York Jets (from Oakland)
Trade Details: NY Jets get 1.24; Oakland gets 2.39, 3.70
Pick: Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Call this a hunch, but I get the feeling that the Raiders really would love to trade out of this spot to acquire another pick in a deep draft class. With only two quarterbacks off the board so far, the Jets make a move to go get Watson, knowing there’s no way he lasts to 2.39. I think they personally favor Watson to Mahomes, and decide to jump the Texans to get him. Watson isn’t ready to start right away, but he’s a winner, and the Jets haven’t been doing much winning lately.
1.25 – Houston Texans
Pick: Patrick Mahomes II, QB, Texas Tech
Even though the Jets jumped them to get Watson, Bill O’Brien happily takes Patrick Mahomes here. Mahomes said that he feels the Texans really like him, and I have a hard time seeing him fall past this pick come Thursday night. Mahomes has the strongest arm in this class, but he’ll have a lot of adjustments coming from an Air Raid offense at Texas Tech. I would think they’ll give him a shot to win the starting job, but he’ll ultimately sit out this year, which will benefit himself and the Texans in the long run.
1.26 – Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Kevin King, CB, Washington
This pick just screams Seahawks. They are actively shopping Richard Sherman, so they obviously are looking to switch it up in the secondary. King is tall (6-3), big (200 lbs) and extremely physical. He will fit in perfectly in Seattle.
1.27 – Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
There are lots of varying opinions in the draft community on Cunningham, but he has the potential to become a standout inside linebacker for whichever team takes him. He’s extremely rangy and shows terrific instincts. He’s an inconsistent tackler, but with Derrick Johnson coming off an injury and not getting any younger, the Chiefs would be wise to draft his eventual successor here.
1.28 – Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Jabrill Peppers, S/LB, Michigan
Another prospect with a lot of question marks, but also an extremely high upside, I just feel like Jabrill Peppers is meant to be drafted by Jerry Jones. Peppers is too small to play linebacker, but he doesn’t have the coverage or ball skills to be a top safety (or so some scouts believe). He is a true tweener, but the other thing his is, is a football player. Peppers will be a special teams dynamo, and Jason Garrett will find a way to utilize him on defense. I think Peppers will be a difference maker in the mold of Tyrann Mathieu, and what team wouldn’t want that?
*Update: Peppers, like Reuben Foster, had a diluted drug test at the NFL Combine. There are varying opinions as to what “diluted” necessarily means, but it’s certainly possible this could cause him to fall out of the 1st Round, which was a possibility before this news anyway.
1.29 – Jacksonville Jaguars (from Green Bay Packers)
Trade Details: Jacksonville gets 1.29; Green Bay gets 2.35, 4.110, 2018 6th Rd Pick
Pick: Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
I could easily see Green Bay making this pick, but I see them more likely to shop the pick to a team wanting to come up to grab either Cook, Corey Davis or John Ross, all falling skill players in my projection. The Jaguars are looking to contend right now, and they could use an improvement in the backfield. Cook is not without his concerns (off-field, inconsistent workouts), but his pure talent makes him a steal at the end of the 1st Round.
1.30 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: John Ross, WR, Washington
There is belief that John Ross could drop due to concerns over his durability at the next level. He missed the entire 2015 season due to injury, and there’s a rumor that at least six teams have taken him completely off their boards. I’m not sure if Pittsburgh is one of those teams, and wide receiver is not necessarily a need for the Steelers, but I think the idea of having Ross and Antonio Brown on opposite sides of Big Ben might be too great to pass up.
1.31 – Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Charles Harris, DE/OLB, Missouri
Vic Beasley is a star on one side of the defense for the Falcons. Here they have their pick of a few edge rushers to pair with him. I think Harris is the perfect blend of size and speed for a rush linebacker. Cam Newton, Drew Brees and Jameis Winston better be ready to see a couple physical freaks coming at them when they play Atlanta next season.
1.32 – New Orleans Saints (from New England)
Pick: Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
This would be a fabulous 1st Round for the Saints. Get a potential All-Pro middle linebacker at 1.11, then jump all over Taco Charlton at the end of the round. This would be one of those inexplicable draft slides that occur just about every season. Charlton might be the best pure pass rusher in this class not named Myles Garrett. Put Charlton opposite Cameron Jordan, and with Reuben Foster at middle linebacker, this defense will be transformed.
Round 2
2.33 – Cleveland Browns
Pick: Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
I think Davis is the best wideout in this class, but there are concerns about his ability to stay healthy and his level of competition playing in the MAC. Bologna, I say. Is it possible for the Browns to have this good a draft? It’s possible, but they’ll find a way to screw things up like always.
2.34 – Los Angeles Rams (from San Francisco)
Trade Details: LA Rams get 2.34; San Francisco gets 2.37, 5.149
Pick: David Njoku, TE, Miami (FL)
Not a great spot for the Niners, so they move back three spots and pick up an extra 5th Round pick. Njoku is a 1st Round talent who falls here, and the Rams take the opportunity to go up and get Jared Goff a potential big time target at tight end.
2.35 – Green Bay Packers (from Jacksonville)
Pick: T.J. Watt, OLB, Wisconsin
The brother of J.J. isn’t quite at the level of his older brother, but he’s a talented rusher off the edge in his own right for sure. He’s getting some 1st Round buzz, especially to Green Bay. If the Packers could trade back, pick up a couple more picks and still get Watt, I think they’d be doing pretty good for themselves.
2.36 – Chicago Bears
Pick: Jordan Willis, OLB/DE, Kansas State
After trading back and nabbing a shutdown corner in the 1st Round, the Bears grab a talented edge rusher whose stock is rising in a big way as we get closer and closer to the draft. You can never have too many pass rushers. I think I might have said that earlier. Oh well, it’s still true.
2.37 – San Francisco 49ers (from LA Rams)
Pick: Joe Mixon, RB, Oklahoma
I hate the fact that this person is going to be drafted at all, especially this high, but he will, and the 49ers make a lot of sense. The Niners are bad, and when you are bad, you need to take some risks in an effort to get better. This would be a huge risk, but the potential rewards are astronomical.
2.38 – Los Angeles Chargers
Pick: Takkarist McKinley, DE/OLB, UCLA
The Chargers take a player here that could go as high as the middle of the 1st Round. Joey Bosa needs a partner on the other side of the line, and McKinley is a great pass rusher in a class full of them.
2.39 – Oakland Raiders (from NY Jets)
Pick: Malik McDowell, DT, Michigan State
This is someone that I see the Raiders taking in the 1st Round, so to drop back into the 2nd Round and still get him would be fantastic on their part. There are motivation concerns with McDowell, but if anybody can get the most out of him, it’s probably Oakland.
2.40 – Chicago Bears (from Carolina)
Pick: Obi Melifonwu, S/CB, Connecticut
The Bears picked up this selection by moving back in the 1st Round, and they use this pick to grab another defensive back. Melifonwu boosted his stock with an impressive performance at the Combine. He’s likely a safety to start his career, but could shift to corner if he progresses like some believe he will.
2.41 – Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Josh Jones, S, NC State
Reggie Nelson left last season in free agency, and the Bengals subsequently struggled on the back end last season. Jones is great against the run already, and has the potential to become great in coverage as well. He is an extremely physical player, and that will allow him to fit seamlessly into the Bengals’ defense.
2.42 – New Orleans Saints
Pick: Curtis Samuel, WR/RB, Ohio State
One of the best playmakers in this draft, Samuel is flying under the radar a little bit. The Saints had pretty good success with a 2nd Round wideout from Ohio State last season, so they hope lightning strikes twice here. Drew Brees will love having a versatile weapon like Samuel.
2.43 – Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida
In Version 1.0 of my Mock Draft, I had the Eagles taking Wilson in the 1st Round. If they can get Mike Williams AND Quincy Wilson in this draft, boy oh boy, what a coup that would be. Wilson is a ball hawk in the mold of former Eagle corner Asante Samuel.
2.44 – Buffalo Bills
Pick: Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado
There are some draft experts who believe Awuzie is one of the most underrated players in this entire draft class. After losing Stephon Gilmore to the Patriots in free agency, the Bills need to address the secondary with an early pick.
2.45 – Arizona Cardinals
Pick: DeMarcus Walker, DE, Florida State
Calais Campbell signed with the Jaguars in free agency, so the Cardinals look for his replacement here in Walker. Like Campbell, Walker is an end that has the ability to slide inside in certain sub packages.
2.46 – Indianapolis Colts
Pick: Alvin Kamara, RB, Tennessee
Frank Gore’s career will end at any moment, so the Colts need to infuse some youth into that position. Kamara has a similar running style to Gore, but he is a much more talented pass catcher out of the backfield. Andrew Luck’s new best friend!
2.47 – Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Zay Jones, WR, East Carolina
Jones is one of my favorite players in this class, and I believe he has the potential to wind up as the best receiver from the 2017 draft class. With Steve Smith’s retirement, the Ravens need to try and replace that production. Jones is a great talent.
2.48 – Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Dion Dawkins, OG, Temple
The Vikings finally get a pick, and they immediately address their putrid offensive line. They definitely need help at tackle, but Dawkins is the best O-Lineman on the board here. He played tackle at Temple, but projects as a guard at the next level. Regardless, he’s an improvement over what they have right now.
2.49 – Washington Redskins
Pick: Joshua Dobbs, QB, Tennessee
It’s clear that the Skins don’t see Kirk Cousins as their QB for the long haul. This is a slight reach, but Dobbs is probably the smartest quarterback in this class, and he will benefit from sitting behind Cousins for a season.
2.50 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Adoree’ Jackson, CB/WR, USC
As an athlete, there’s nobody better in this class than Jackson. He needs to improve his skills, but the athleticism is there. Jackson will struggle covering the bigger wideouts in the NFC South, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with his instincts and ball skills.
2.51 – Denver Broncos
Pick: Adam Shaheen, TE, Ashland
A virtual unknown prior to the draft process, the small school product is drawing comparisons to Gronk. At 6-6, 278 pounds, Shaheen is a physical freak at the tight end position. This is a popular prediction in mock drafts, but it makes total sense for the Broncos.
2.52 – Tennessee Titans (from Cleveland via Tennessee)
Pick: JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, USC
The Titans get this pick back from the Browns in the trade for the 5th overall pick, and after doubling up in the secondary in the 1st Round, the Titans get Marcus Mariota a talented pass catcher with the potential to be a #1 receiver down the line.
2.53 – Detroit Lions
Pick: Caleb Brantley, DT, Florida
The Lions double up on Florida defensive players, as they have struggled to replace Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley. Brantley takes some plays off, but when he decides to turn it on, he is dominating on the inside. The Lions will have to make sure Brantley stays motivated.
*Update: Brantley was arrested a few weeks ago for allegedly knocking a female unconscious outside a bar in Gainesville. I can’t remember a time when this many prospects were getting into trouble with drug tests and the law this close to the draft. I think it is very likely that this event causes Brantley to slide, possibly out of the first three rounds.
2.54 – Miami Dolphins
Pick: Chris Wormley, DT, Michigan
Speaking of Ndamukong Suh, he needs some help on the interior of the Dolphins’ defensive line, and Wormley is talented enough to be a very good partner for Suh. Wormley is a little smaller than Brantley, but he is also a little quicker. The Dolphins struggled against the run down the stretch, and this pick would help them improve in that department.
2.55 – New York Giants
Pick: Antonio Garcia, OT, Troy
The Giants need a left tackle, and while I’m not sure if Garcia is that guy, at this stage of the draft, he’s the best O-Lineman available. He may be best suited at guard, but I think the Giants would be wise to start him at RT, and if he progresses well, possible move him to LT down the line.
2.56 – Oakland Raiders
Pick: Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
I’ve seen White go as high as 1.11 to New Orleans, but I think teams will be concerned about his size (5-11, 192) and his poor ball skills. I don’t see those things bothering the Raiders, as they need the most help at slot corner, where White can start from the get-go.
2.57 – Kansas City Chiefs (from Houston)
Trade Details: Kansas City gets 2.57; Houston gets 2.59, 5.170
Pick: Sidney Jones, CB, Washington
The Chiefs give up a 5th Round pick here to shoot for the moon. Prior to getting hurt during the pre-draft process, Jones was considered one of the top defensive backs in this class. He thinks he’ll be ready for the start of the season, but that’s a huge question mark. If he gets healthy and comes even close to his potential, he’ll be the steal of the draft here late in the 2nd Round.
2.58 – Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Dan Feeney, OG, Indiana
The Seahawks’ offensive line is downright awful, and while their biggest need is at tackle, they could use upgrades all across the line. Some scouts believe Feeney is the best pure guard in this class, so the Hawks would be wise to grab him here.
2.59 – Houston Texans (from Kansas City)
Pick: Budda Baker, S, Washington
For a playoff team, the Texans have a ton of needs. After getting their quarterback in the 1st, they grab an undersized, but very talented safety here with the potential to become a pro bowler in the future. Baker has drawn Tyrann Mathieu comparisons.
2.60 – Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Tim Williams, OLB, Alabama
The Cowboys have never been ones to shy away from taking a troubled prospect, and Williams had his fair share of off-field issues during his time in Tuscaloosa. If he can straighten out his act though, he has the ability to be one of the best edge rushers in this class.
2.61 – Green Bay Packers
Pick: D’Onta Foreman, RB, Texas
It’s pretty simple, the Packers just cannot go into the season with Ty Montgomery as the starting running back. He is great as a change-of-pace back or a 3rd down back, but he’s not a bell cow. Foreman has some fumbling concerns, but he is a violent runner, and has the potential to be a stud.
2.62 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Tyus Bowser, OLB, Houston
There’s a real possibility that Bowser could go a lot higher than this, as ESPN has him rated as a Top-30 prospect. The Steelers need an infusion of youth on the edge, as James Harrison can’t possibly play too many more seasons.
2.63 – San Francisco 49ers (from Atlanta)
Trade Details: San Francisco gets 2.63; Atlanta gets 3.66, 6.198, 2018 6th Rd Pick
Pick: Davis Webb, QB, California
Matt Barkley is not the long-term answer for the Niners. Neither is Brian Hoyer. Two 6th Round picks is a small price to pay to go up and get the guy that they think can develop into the long-term answer at quarterback. Webb has the prototypical size and arm strength of an NFL quarterback, and Kyle Shanahan is the perfect coach for him to develop under.
2.64 – Chicago Bears (from Carolina)
Pick: Cooper Kupp, WR, Eastern Washington
After going defense with their first three picks in this projection, the Bears address the hole in their roster left by Alshon Jeffery departure in free agency. Kupp has the size and the production (broke 15 FCS records), but he did not test well in the pre-draft process.
Round 3
3.65 – Tennessee Titans (from Cleveland)
Pick: Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE, Villanova
They addressed their three biggest needs with their first three picks, so with this pick that they acquired from trading down in the 1st, they address another need by grabbing a versatile defensive end.
3.66 – Atlanta Falcons (from San Francisco)
Pick: Derek Rivers, OLB/DE, Youngstown State
Deciding that good pass rushers are a premium in this league, the Falcons decide to use a second straight pick on an edge rusher. Picking up an extra 6th Round pick allows them the ability to do this.
3.67 – Baltimore Ravens (from Chicago)
Trade Details: Baltimore gets 3.67; Chicago gets 3.78, 4.122
Pick: Jourdan Lewis, CB, Michigan
Having already made four picks, the Bears are afforded the luxury of moving back 11 spots and grabbing an additional 4th Round pick. Meanwhile, John takes the advice of his brother Jim and moves up to grab a 1st Round talent that Jim coached at Michigan who has slipped here due to some off-field issues (domestic violence accusations).
3.68 – Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Taylor Moton, OT, Western Michigan
The Jaguars’ offensive line was mediocre at best last year, so any improvement has to be considered a good idea. Some think Moton is better suited at guard, but the Jags can put him anywhere on the line and he’ll make that position better.
3.69 – Los Angeles Rams
Pick: Desmond King, S/CB, Iowa
After playing mostly cornerback at Iowa, most believe he is best suited at safety in the pros due to his height. That’s fine for the Rams though, as they need to improve on the back end.
3.70 – Oakland Raiders (from NY Jets)
Pick: Jake Butt, TE, Michigan
This pick becomes a luxury for the Raiders, as they are able to add a guy that had a chance to be a 1st Round pick prior to a knee injury and the end of last season. With Jared Cook on the roster, along with a hopefully improved Clive Walford, Oakland can afford to let Butt heal properly (that’s hilarious), and reap the benefits when he gets healthy.
3.71 – Los Angeles Chargers
Pick: Dorian Johnson, OG, Pittsburgh
The Chargers signed Russell Okung in free agency to shore up the left tackle position, but they could use an upgrade just about everywhere else on the line. Johnson has the potential to be one of the best guards in the league.
3.72 – New England Patriots (from Carolina)
Pick: Tarell Basham, DE, Ohio
The Patriots finally get to make a pick in this draft. They got this pick along with Kony Ealy from the Panthers, and they decide to make it an end-heavy trade by grabbing Basham here. The Pats don’t have many weaknesses, but the pass rush is something that they are likely to address in this draft.
3.73 – Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Chris Godwin, WR, Penn State
When A.J. Green was injured last season, the passing game disappeared for the Bengals. For that reason, they are likely to add a wideout early in the draft, and Godwin has prototypical size for a receiver, and he tested well in the lead-up to the draft.
3.74 – Baltimore Ravens (from Philadelphia)
Pick: Pat Elflein, C, Ohio State
After trading away Jeremy Zuttah, the Ravens get the #1 center prospect in this draft in the 3rd Round to replace him. That has to be considered a big victory for Baltimore.
3.75 – Buffalo Bills
Pick: Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech
After moving to wide receiver last year for the Hokies, Hodges projects as a freakishly athletic tight end in the pros. He struggles with blocking, but he has the size necessary to develop into a good blocker. He’s a big play waiting to happen, and will be a nice addition to the Bills’ passing attack.
3.76 – New Orleans Saints
Pick: Brad Kaaya, QB, Miami (FL)
Coming into last season, Kaaya was right up there with the top prospects in this class, but he had an inconsistent season for the Hurricanes. He’s a project, but he’s got great size and a strong arm, and he’ll benefit greatly learning from a guy like Drew Brees.
3.77 – Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Teez Tabor, CB, Florida
Tabor was a likely 1st Round pick entering the draft process, but off-field concerns coupled with alarmingly low 40-yard dash times have caused his stock to plummet. The Cardinals need somebody opposite Patrick Peterson, and Tabor has the skills to be a top corner in this league.
3.78 – Chicago Bears (from Baltimore)
Pick: Nathan Peterman, QB, Pittsburgh
The Bears gave Mike Glennon $15 million a year this offseason (mind-blowing, honestly), but that does not mean they should ignore the quarterback position in the draft. Peterman could be the sleeper at QB in this class, and the Bears would have a steal if he reaches his full potential.
3.79 – Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Julie’n Davenport, OT, Bucknell
The Vikings double up on offensive lineman with their first two picks in this draft? I know Sam Bradford is on board with that! Their offensive line was putrid last season, it needs to be improved, and they will do so in this draft.
3.80 – Indianapolis Colts
Pick: Marcus Maye, S, Florida
It is inevitable with a class this deep that some really good defensive backs are going to fall into the 3rd Round and possibly even further. Maye has a 2nd Round grade from most scouts, and the Colts need a safety after Mike Adams left in free agency.
3.81 – Washington Redskins
Pick: Kareem Hunt, RB, Toledo
While the Redskins have never been ones to invest heavy in the running back position, I just don’t think Chris Thompson and Rob Kelley will be able to get it done. Kareem Hunt is a thumper, and is an immediate improvement over what they have now.
3.82 – Denver Broncos
Pick: Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Alabama
The Broncos lost Malik Jackson in free agency before last season, and they never really replaced him. It showed, as they became one of the worst defenses against the run. Tomlinson is a massive interior presence, and will certainly help against the run and the pass.
3.83 – Tennessee Titans
Pick: Jordan Leggett, TE, Clemson
Delanie Walker is on the downswing of his career, so the Titans grab Leggett hoping that he can be Walker’s eventual replacement, but in the meantime, they can run some two TE sets and wreak havoc on opposing defenses.
3.84 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Samaje Perine, RB, Oklahoma
It’s a very unclear situation at running back for the Bucs. Doug Martin will be suspended for three games, Charles Sims can’t stay healthy, and Jacquizz Rodgers certainly is not a feature back. Perine, though, has the potential to be a very productive back at the next level.
3.85 – Detroit Lions
Pick: Carl Lawson, DE, Auburn
Ziggy Ansah is a star on one side of the defensive line for the Lions, but he could use some help coming off the other side. Lawson has a ton of durability concerns, but if he can stay healthy at the next level, the Lions will have a steal at this point in the draft.
3.86 – Minnesota Vikings (from Miami)
Pick: Carlos Watkins, DT, Clemson
The Vikings address the trenches once again, just on the opposite side of the ball. Shariff Floyd played through injury last season and just wasn’t very effective. Watkins helps give the Vikings depth on the defensive line in case Floyd can’t regain his form again this season.
3.87 – New York Giants
Pick: Alex Anzalone, ILB, Florida
The only real weakness left at this point for the Giants is at the inside linebacker position, and there are a fair amount of mid-round prospects in this class that could turn out to be quality starters. Anzalone drops due to durability concerns, but he has the skills to be a three-down middle linebacker for the Giants.
3.88 – Oakland Raiders
Pick: Marcus Williams, S, Utah
Safety isn’t a need for the Raiders necessarily, but they could use some depth at the position after losing Nate Allen in free agency. Williams could also potentially replace the aging Reggie Nelson, whose contract is up after this season.
3.89 – Houston Texans
Pick: Dawaune Smoot, DE, Illinois
J.J. Watt spent most of last season on the sidelines due to injury, so I think the Texans will address the defensive end position early in this year’s draft just in case Watt’s issues linger this season. Smoot was a top prospect before a mediocre 2016 season.
3.90 – Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Zach Banner, OT, USC
The Seahawks have to fix this offensive line eventually, so they use two early round picks on lineman in this year’s draft. Banner is a project, but he is a massive human being, and definitely somebody that O-Line coach Tom Cable can work with.
3.91 – Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Larry Ogunjobi, DT, Charlotte
With Dontari Poe in Atlanta via free agency and the release of Jaye Howard, the Chiefs have a massive hole at the defensive tackle position. They added Bennie Logan, but depth is necessary, and Ogunjobi provides that at the very least.
3.92 – Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Jonnu Smith, TE, Florida International
Jason Witten’s career has to be coming to a close sooner rather than later, so it’s time to start seeking out his eventual successor. Smith, at this point, is the blend of blocker and receiver that most closely resembles what Witten gives to this Cowboys’ offense.
3.93 – Green Bay Packers
Pick: Fabian Moreau, CB, UCLA
I’m not sure if Moreau will actually fall this far, but a torn pectoral muscle suffered during a pre-draft workout has caused his stock to tumble. If he properly recovers, the Packers will have a steal near the end of the 3rd Round.
3.94 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Damontae Kazee, CB, San Diego State
I think the Steelers would much prefer to go safety here if they don’t address that position with their first two picks, but they settle for an undersized, but very talented corner to add some depth at that position.
3.95 – Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Raekwon McMillan, LB, Ohio State
The Falcons continue to address their defense, which is no surprise considering they blew a 28-3 lead in the Super Bowl (I’m sure they’re tired of hearing it, but it’s not going to stop). Scouts aren’t sure if McMillan can be a three-down linebacker in the pros, but he is improving in coverage and has that potential.
3.96 – New England Patriots
Pick: ArDarius Stewart, WR, Alabama
The Patriots have already addressed the pass rush, so they don’t really have any true needs left. That affords them the luxury of being able to take a versatile offensive weapon like Stewart at this point in the draft. The rich get richer.
Round 3 Compensatory Picks
3.97 – Miami Dolphins
Pick: Kendell Beckwith, ILB, LSU
Kiko Alonso played okay last season, but the Fins could really stand to improve the middle of their defense. Beckwith is better suited as an inside linebacker in the pros than his LSU teammate Duke Riley, who is arguably more talented.
3.98 – Carolina Panthers
Pick: Roderick Johnson, OT, Florida State
The Panthers finally get their second pick after making the move up to get Leonard Fournette, and they use it to continue to try and shore up their protection for Cam Newton.
3.99 – Philadelphia Eagles (from Baltimore)
Pick: Ryan Anderson, OLB, Alabama
Connor Barwin really struggled at times last year, so the Eagles should look to improve on the edge. Anderson is much more talented than players typically chosen at the end of the 3rd Round.
3.100 – Cleveland Browns (from Tennessee via LA Rams)
Pick: Gerald Everett, TE, South Alabama
The Browns attempt to add another weapon to help out Mitchell Trubisky down the line, and Everett is one of the best pure pass catchers in this tight end class. He falls due to his mediocre blocking ability.
3.101 – Denver Broncos
Pick: Marlon Mack, RB, South Florida
C.J. Anderson has been a very good back for Denver, but he’s been banged up at times, and they could stand to add some depth at the position.
3.102 – Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Daeshon Hall, DE, Texas A&M
Myles Garrett got all the attention at Texas A&M, but Hall did a lot of good things on the opposite side. Some are concerned that Garrett made Hall better, but the Seahawks’ defensive scheme should make Hall better too.
3.103 – New Orleans Saints (from New England via Cleveland)
Pick: Ahkello Witherspoon, CB, Colorado
Another very talented cornerback has slid down the board, and the Saints pounce, potentially adding a Day 1 starter at the end of the 3rd Round. The Saints are having a great draft here.
3.104 – Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Anthony Walker, ILB, Northwestern
There’s a chance 1st Round pick Zach Cunningham will be better suited at outside linebacker, so the Chiefs grab Walker here just in case that happens. Walker is a little undersized for an inside backer, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in talent.
3.105 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Jeremy McNichols, RB, Boise State
Le’Veon Bell is arguably the best running back in the league, but the Steelers do not have a whole lot of depth at the position, so they would be well inclined to add a back fairly early in this draft, just in case anything would happen to Bell.
3.106 – Seattle Seahawks
Pick: John Johnson, S, Boston College
There’s a chance that Earl Thomas will leave in free agency after this season, so the Seahawks use an early pick on his potential replacement.
3.107 – New York Jets
Pick: Montravius Adams, DT, Auburn
Sheldon Richardson’s time in New York is coming to an end, so the Jets get his potential replacement with the last pick in the 3rd Round. Adams is not as versatile as Richardson, but he’s a disruptor in the middle, just like Richardson.
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