2017 NFL Mock Draft: MockOut Edition
By Jon Dove
7. *Projected Trade* Jacksonville Jaguars (LAC)- Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
– Trade Details- Chargers trade No. 7 overall and 3rd round pick for the Jaguars No. 4 overall pick
The Jaguars moved down a few spots, added extra draft picks and still landed an elite player like LSU’s Leonard Fournette. Running back isn’t exactly a need area but Fournette is a special player capable of being the focal point of an offense.
Fournette would also help take some pressure off of Blake Bortles.
8. Carolina Panthers- John Ross, WR, Washington
Speed kills and is something that NFL teams covet. John Ross has that special type of speed that can’t be taught. The Panthers need someone capable of taking the top off a defense as Ted Ginn Jr. did in the past.
Carolina has the bigger targets in Kelvin Benjamin and Devin Funchess but needs that speed element.
9. Cincinnati Bengals- Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama
Jonathan Allen is a top-5 prospect who may drop a few spots based on the reports of a lingering shoulder injury. He’s a power player who holds up against the run and holds at the point of attack. However, he also does a solid job of generating pressure on the quarterback.
The Bengals have needs along the offensive line but also need some fresh blood on the defensive line. Adding Allen alongside Geno Atkins and Carlos Dunlap would give them a very dangerous group.
10. Buffalo Bills- Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Malik Hooker is a playmaking safety who can cover a ton of ground on the backend of the defense. It’s his elite ball skills that make him such an intriguing prospect and potential top-10 pick. Buffalo’s secondary is going through a rebuild and could use someone like Hooker.
There’s a chance that the Bills could target a wide receiver to work opposite Sammy Watkins. At this point the value would be to grab Hooker.
11. New Orleans Saints- Takkarist McKinley, Edge, UCLA
The Saints are committed to rebuilding their defense and could use a speed rusher off the edge. Takkarist McKinley is an explosive athlete who can win off the edge and create consistent pressure on the quarterback.
New Orleans would have a very dangerous defensive line with McKinley, Sheldon Rankins, Nick Fairley and Cameron Jordan.
12. Cleveland Browns (Phi)- O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
O.J. Howards is a major weapon capable of attacking the seam. He’s an elite athlete who can outpace the defense and haul in contested passes. It helps that he’s also a good blocker which makes him a well-rounded prospect.
This is a spot where a quarterback could come off the board. It depends on who’s available and whether or not the Browns see him as the long-term answer.