2017 NFL Mock Draft: Preseason Edition
By Jon Dove
1. Cleveland Browns- Luke Falk, QB, Washington State
The Cleveland Browns have just announced that Robert Griffin III will be the team’s starting quarterback. This is an upside play that aims at finding some lightening in a bottle and hoping Griffin can reach the potential he showed as a rookie.
However, if the Browns own the No. 1 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft then it’s safe to say Griffin didn’t excel. The Browns need to figure out their long-term quarterback situation and Washington State’s Luke Falk has the talent to be the answer.
Falk has the arm strength, feel for the position and mental makeup needed to succeed in the NFL. Despite coming out of a spread attack, Falk has experience going through his progressions and making multiple reads.
2. Tennessee Titans- Myles Garrett, Edge, Texas A&M
Myles Garrett is an elite prospect and will no No. 1 overall if the team picking in that spot doesn’t need a quarterback. This is a pass rusher who generates pressure with his speed, short-area burst, snap timing and non-stop motor.
The Tennessee Titans have a few edge rushers on the roster including Derrick Morgan, Brian Orakpo and Kevin Dodd. However, they can’t pass up an opportunity to add a special talent like Garrett.
3. San Francisco 49ers- Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
The San Francisco 49ers have a lot of question marks at the quarterback position where Blaine Gabbert and Colin Kaepernick are battling for the starting job. Neither appear to have the backing of the franchise which means the 49ers will be looking for a quarterback in next year’s draft.
Deshaun Watson is a proven playmaker who has the skills needed to excel in Chip Kelly’s system. He’s not only capable of hurting a defense with his legs, but also does a good job running a fast-pace attack. Leadership is also something Watson brings to the table.
4. San Diego Chargers- Tim Williams, Edge, Alabama
Even after adding Joey Bosa (maybe), the San Diego Chargers need help on the defensive side of the ball. Alabama’s Tim Williams is an elite edge-rusher who uses his short-area burst and suddenness to generate pressure on the quarterback.
Williams was a situational player last year for Alabama, but will need to take on a bigger role this season. It’s important to note that he’s a well-rounded pass rusher who knows how to use his hands and can convert his speed to power.
Next: Picks 5-8