With The First Pick
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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Week 16 Update

By Jon Dove

Nov 19, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Brantley (57) during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 19, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Brantley (57) during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 3, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Corey Clement (6) runs away from Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Grant Haley (15) in the first half during the Big Ten Championship college football game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Corey Clement (6) runs away from Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Grant Haley (15) in the first half during the Big Ten Championship college football game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports /

Minnesota Vikings

2nd Round, No. 45 overall- Braden Smith, OG, Auburn

3rd Round, No. 77 overall- Tyler Orlosky, C, West Virginia

3rd Round, No. 82 overall (via Mia)- Corey Clement, RB, Wisconsin

The Minnesota Vikings don’t have a 1st round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft because of the trade that landed them Sam Bradford. Giving up that pick is a tough pill to swallow based on the fact they are unlikely to make a playoff appearance.

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However, the team’s struggles are not because of Bradford who had a very solid season. Bradford stood strong all season in the face of tremendous pressure. He helped keep the team competitive despite working with a patch work offensive line and without Adrian Peterson.

The injuries along the offensive line were just too much to overcome. However, this is a unit that entered the season with question marks. Minnesota needs to use the upcoming draft to add both talent and depth.

Braden Smith is an athletic guard prospect who can reach the 2nd level, pull to the edge and work the trap game. He’s a strong run blocker but will also help keep pressure out of the quarterbacks face.

Minnesota could use another option at the running back spot behind Peterson. Corey Clement is an underrated and productive running back prospect. He has breakaway speed, but also knows how to pick up yards between the tackles.

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