2017 NFL Mock Draft: Week 16 Update

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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Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) in the first quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) is tackled by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) in the first quarter in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

New York Jets

1st Round, No. 4 overall- Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama

2nd Round, No. 36 overall- Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech

3rd Round, No. 68 overall- Charles Harris, Edge, Missouri

Drafting an inside linebacker inside the top-5 isn’t considered a sexy pick. However, Reuben Foster has the potential to be one of the top defensive players in the league. He’s a rangy athlete who delivers big hits and also holds up in coverage.

Foster is also a strong leader who helps get others in proper position and keeps the moral high.

More from With the First Pick

The Jets quarterback situation will look different next year, but it’s hard to see them drafting a quarterback after selecting Christian Hackenberg in the 2nd round of the last year’s draft. Instead, they might choose to upgrade the talent surrounding the quarterback.

Bucky Hodges is an elite athlete who creates mismatches in the passing game. He’s listed as a tight end, but doesn’t bring much as a blocker. It’s his ability to work down the seam and win in contested situations that makes him valuable.

Charles Harris is an interesting prospect who could go in the 1st round or fall into the 3rd. He has flashed the ability to get after the quarterback, but has some size and consistency questions.