2017 NFL Mock Draft: Final Version
By Jon Dove
7. Los Angeles Chargers- Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
The Chargers have been linked to Hooker for a long time because it just makes so much sense. He’s a ballhawking safety who excels at generating turnovers. Adding him to the mix would give the Chargers one of the better young defenses in the NFL.
Overall, this is one of the tougher picks to predict as Los Angeles could go in several directions. They could grab a playmaker like Clemson’s Mike Williams, a pass rusher like Tennessee’s Derek Barnett or even a quarterback.
This could be one of those spots in the draft that sends the rest of the team’s scrabbling to react.
8. Carolina Panthers- Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Christian McCaffrey is one of the hotter names as we approach the draft and for good reason. He’s an explosive playmaker who can impact the game as a runner, receiver and return man. There just aren’t many individuals with his offensive versatility.
Carolina runs a pretty unique offense build around Cam Newton and would find a way to make use of McCaffrey. He’s someone that the opposing defense would need to keep account of in every situation.
Ultimately, McCaffrey would take a ton of pressure off Newton and make his job much easier.
9. Cincinnati Bengals- Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
Reddick’s rise up the draft has been such a unique and fun story. His willingness to change positions at the Senior Bowl is what really changed things. He took a gamble by playing outside his comfort level and show the NFL that he could fit multiple positions.
Cincinnati’s linebacker corps is a bit of a mess at this point having moved on from Rey Maualuga and the constant uncertainty of Vontaze Burfict.
Reddick would give them someone who can work at WILL linebacker and also provide some pass-rush on 3rd down.