After five mocks of first-round action, we’ve expanded to a three-rounder this time around, giving an even better glimpse of the strengths and weaknesses of the draft class. The cornerbacks stand out, particularly in the second round where team needs and value matched in many areas, pushing a number of CBs off the board. The first round is littered with edge defenders, while the quarterbacks remain the usual question mark at the top half of the draft.
As always, this mock draft is what I would do as GM of each team, not a prediction of what the NFL is thinking.
1. Cleveland Browns
Myles Garrett, Edge, Texas A&M
Production and athleticism match up to create a fantastic prospect in Garrett, who finished his career with 31 sacks, 35 QB hits, and 98 hurries on his 978 rushes while improving against the run in all three years at Texas A&M.
2. San Francisco 49ers
Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
While trading down is likely the best move for San Francisco, adding a cornerback of Lattimore’s caliber could go a long way toward the 49ers’ defensive overhaul. He has good size and athleticism, and that coverage versatility led to a passer rating of only 30.2 into his coverage, good for fourth in the nation.
Top 10 cornerback prospects of 2017:
1. Marshon Lattimore, Ohio State
2. Tre'Davious White, LSU
3–10. ⬇️https://t.co/cr57YflwER— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 30, 2017
3. Chicago Bears
The combine may have cooled Allen’s momentum, but it didn’t change what he’s done on the field, which was lead all interior defensive linemen with 67 total pressure in 2016. He can move around the line, playing with power and strong hands that allow him to win at the point of attack, a crucial element that Chicago needs up front.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Foster had his own issues at the combine, being sent home early, but from a pure football standpoint, he’s a three-down linebacker capable of affecting the game in multiple ways. He posted the nation’s top overall grade at 93.3 while leading the way against the run at 93.4 to go with the No. 7 mark in coverage at 86.5.
5. Tennessee Titans (from Los Angeles Rams)
Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
The best route-running receiver in the draft, Davis adds a perfect weapon for QB Marcus Mariota. He knows how to get open quickly and with an average of 8.1 yards after the catch per reception over the last three years, Davis is also a big-play threat with the ball in his hands.
6. New York Jets
Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
The Jets let the board come to this them on this one, and Trubisky falls to six, where he makes sense as their potential signal-caller of the future. His short-area accuracy is the best in the class and he has the feel in the pocket and quick decision-making to succeed at the next level.
Latest QB rankings for the NFL Draft
1. Mitchell Trubisky
2. Deshaun Watson
3. Patrick MahomesSee more: https://t.co/ylK7W9YZ3F pic.twitter.com/Kl7L68qazV
— PFF (@PFF) March 20, 2017
7. Los Angeles Chargers
This has been a common marriage in recent mocks, as Hooker brings as much range as any free safety prospect in recent years, making him a perfect fit to play center field in new defensive coordinator Gus Bradley’s scheme. Of Hooker’s seven interceptions last season, many were of the highlight-reel variety as he plays with great feel for the game while taking good angles, it’s just a matter of tackling better as he missed one of every 6.5 attempts to rank 135th out of 242 qualifiers in 2016.
8. Carolina Panthers
Derek Barnett, Edge, Tennessee
Carolina needs an influx of youth at the defensive end position and Barnett is a perfect fit as his three-year production is on par with any player in the draft class. He ranked No. 2 in the nation in 2015 at 90.0 overall and No. 3 in 2016 at 92.0, providing strong defense while constantly improving as a pass-rusher.
PFF Draft Pass Stat: Barnett picked up pressure to the outside shoulder of offensive tackles once every 8.2 rushes, the second-best rate in the class.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
While Corey Davis may be the perfect fit for the Bengals, Williams is a good consolation prize. He has the big body to work as a possession receiver, winning on in-breaking routes and moving the chains. He also has the body control to win down the field, where he caught 53.8 percent of his deep targets, good for eighth in the draft class.
10. Buffalo Bills
Even with QB Tyrod Taylor returning, the Bills are still in the QB market and Watson is a worth a look to see if he can develop in their system. He can make the necessary throws, whether throwing with touch or working the seam, it’s just a matter of tying up some of the finer points of the positon like moving in the pocket and working through his reads. Watson’s three-year production is difficult to ignore, including a 90.7 mark in 2015 and a 91.2 grade that ranked third in the nation in 2016.
11. New Orleans Saints
White bounced back from a subpar 2014 season to post the top overall grade among cornerbacks at 90.5. He broke up 12 passes, good for third in the nation, while showing the skills to cover both on the outside or in the slot. The Saints simply have to add talent to their defense, and White is a strong, versatile option.
12. Cleveland Browns (from Philadelphia Eagles)
With the top two quarterback options off the board, the Browns stick to the board and get a playmaker on the back end in Adams. He was the top-graded safety in the nation last season at 89.4 overall, showing the versatility to play in the box while playing multiple coverages. He adds a defensive chess piece capable of playing short zones, covering tight ends, or playing deep coverage.
"LSU's Jamal Adams is the best prospect at both safety AND cornerback in this draft."
– @PFF_Josh pic.twitter.com/46QMOJGZ65— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 19, 2017
13. Arizona Cardinals
Arizona’s vertical passing attack would love to add the draft’s fastest player in Ross, who not only ran a 4.22 at the NFL combine, but it’s speed that shows up on tape. He can get behind the defense to create big plays, but he also has enough quicks to win in the short game. He adds yet another big-play option to the Arizona offense.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota Vikings)
Solomon Thomas, Edge, Stanford
The nation’s top defensive player against the run in 2016, Thomas can play early-down defensive end before kicking inside to rush the passer. He has a great feel for reading and shedding blocks in the run game and he’s continued to progress as a pass-rusher where he ranked seventh in the nation in 2016 among interior defensive linemen.
15. Indianapolis Colts
Haason Reddick, Edge/LB, Temple
A bit of a wild card in the first round, Reddick is a versatile option who played on the edge at Temple while showing the skills to play in more of a traditional linebacker role during a strong week at the Senior Bowl. He finished with 29 pressures (10 sacks, four QB hits, and 29 hurries) on only 248 rushes in 2016 and if he can just cut back on the 26 missed tackles over the last two years, he’ll be a movable playmaker for a Colts defense that is in desperate need of game-changers.
16. Baltimore Ravens
A good fit for the pass-rush-needy Ravens, Lawson finished with the nation’s fifth-best pass-rushing grade with his nine sacks, 13 QB hits, and 45 hurries on 364 rushes in 2016. He has some work to do against the run, but he represents an immediate replacement for Elvis Dumervil as a designated pass-rusher.
17. Washington Redskins
Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
One of the best big-play threats in the draft, Cook’s game speed is as good as it gets in the class. He can take it to the house as a runner or a receiver, and he showed what he’s capable of doing behind a subpar offensive line last season as he forced 92 missed tackles on the ground to lead the nation.
PFF Draft Pass Stat: Cook’s 129.4 elusive rating ranked second in the draft class
Top 5 running backs in the draft per @PFF
1. Dalvin Cook
2. Leonard Fournette
3. Christian McCaffrey
4. Alvin Kamara
5. Kareem Hunt— Cris Collinsworth (@CollinsworthPFF) March 22, 2017
18. Tennessee Titans
Malik McDowell, DI, Michigan State
Tennessee has work to do in the trenches and McDowell adds an important piece as he’s capable of lining up inside while dabbling on the edge. He can be a disruptive run defender, but he also ranked 12th among interior defensive linemen with an 85.7 pass-rush grade, including a number of strong wins on the edge against the nation’s top offensive tackles.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The first offensive tackle comes off the board as the Bucs look to solidify their offensive line. Ramczyk can make all of the blocks in the run game and he gave up only 12 pressures last season in his first action at the FBS level. He can challenge left tackle Donovan Smith right away for a starting spot as Smith has struggled in pass protection in his first two years in the league.
20. Denver Broncos
While Ramczyk would have been a great fit, Denver adds a playmaking tight end in Howard who averaged 7.1 yards after the catch per reception over the last three years. He’s a solid run-blocker, both in-line and on the move, as he led the nation with an 81.5 run-block grade and he’s just scratching the surface on his play-making ability in the pass game where he has the size and speed to win against linebackers and safeties.
21. Detroit Lions
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
The Lions add the best receiving running back in the draft in McCaffrey who brings slot-receiver skills to the position while showing the patience and cutting ability to succeed as a pure running back as well. If the Lions tap into his versatility, he’ll be a productive pro, just as he was at Stanford where he was the nation’s No. 2 overall running back in 2015 at 94.5.
"Christian McCaffrey's combination of acceleration, athleticism & versatility make him the best offensive prospect of 2017."
– @PFF_Jordan pic.twitter.com/ytGwJlc5oQ
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 31, 2017
22. Miami Dolphins
Jordan Willis, Edge, Kansas State
Willis was the nation’s top-graded edge defender in 2016 and he backed up his on-field performance with an exceptional showing at the NFL combine. He has the burst to challenge to the edge, leading to 15 sacks, eight QB hits, and 57 hurries on 524 rushes in 2016 and he’s a good fit in Miami where they have a strong veteran presence at defensive end with Cameron Wake and William Hayes, but they’re in desperate need of youth at the position.
23. New York Giants
Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
No, the Giants never draft linebackers this high, but Cunningham has the three-down skills to turn around their perennial position of weakness. He loves attacking blockers in the run game and his 56 run stops led all Power-5 linebackers, but he must cut down on his 34 missed tackles in order to live up to his potential.
24. Oakland Raiders
Perhaps a surprising drop for Fournette, but given the questions about his ability to affect the game on passing downs, this may be a better representation of his value. He goes to a perfect situation in Oakland where he fits into their downhill run game behind one of the league’s best offensive lines, and if he can regain his 2015 form when he led the nation with 83 forced missed tackles, this becomes one of the steals of the draft.
25. Houston Texans
Forrest Lamp, G, Western Kentucky
With three years of top-five grades at left tackle for Western Kentucky, Lamp’s production is difficult to ignore. His frame suggests a move to guard at the next level, but he’ll fit in nicely in Houston as they look to get their offensive line back on track.
PFF Draft Pass Stat: Lamp surrendered only 31 pressures on 1,621 attempts over the last three years
26. Seattle Seahawks
Seattle adds another piece for the secondary as Humphrey has the size and movement skills to play press man or off coverage, both crucial for Seattle’s scheme. He just has to do a better job of finding the ball in the air as he allowed too many big plays, leading to an average of 16.9 yards/reception on completions into his coverage the last two years.
27. Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech
The Chiefs look to add their quarterback of the future in Mahomes, who brings the most tantalizing tools of all the quarterbacks in the class. He has the arm to create big plays down the field and he has a good feel for making plays outside of the flow of the offense. Mahomes just needs time to develop in an NFL offense, and he can sit behind Alex Smith as he works his way into the mix.
PFF Draft Pass Stat: 13.7 percent of Mahomes’ passes came outside the pockets on scrambles, second-highest in the draft class
28. Dallas Cowboys
The pass rush will likely be addressed early for Dallas and Charlton is a late bloomer who could play like a top-15 player in this class. He was the No. 4 edge defender in the nation down the stretch and in about a season-and-a-half’s worth of snaps from 2014 to 2016, he picked up 17 sacks, 19 QB hits, and 66 hurries.
Ranking the 2017 edge defender class
10. Taco Charlton, MICH
9. T.J. Watt, WISC
8. Charles Harris, MIZFull list: https://t.co/vocvCjblHq pic.twitter.com/FUMcvKoOls
— PFF (@PFF) March 23, 2017
29. Green Bay Packers
Green Bay adds another edge-rushing threat in Watt, who broke out in 2016 to pick up 10 sacks, 16 QB hits, and 30 hurries on only 279 rushes. It was only one season of production, but it was one of the better all-around seasons in the draft class and continued improvement could make him well worth the late first round selection.
30. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh has invested heavily on edge rushers in recent years, but they may finally hit with Williams who pressured the quarterback on 26.1 percent of his rushes over the last three years (NCAA average is 10 percent). He only played 168 snaps against the run during that time, but he has the tools to succeed on the edge. Regardless, Williams is being drafted to rush the passer and he can do that from Day 1 at the next level.
31. Atlanta Falcons
Charles Harris, Edge, Missouri
Yet another pass-rusher comes off the board as Harris adds a strong complement opposite Vic Beasley at defensive end. He racked up 20 sacks, 37 QB hits, and 77 hurries on 877 rushes over the last three years and his 88.2 pass-rush grade ranked 12th in the nation in 2016.
32. New Orleans Saints (from New England Patriots)
The Saints add another weapon for QB Drew Brees as Njoku brings wide receiver-like skills to tight end. He averaged 11.2 yards after the catch per reception last season while ranking third in the draft class with 200 yards on deep (20-plus yards) receptions.
33. Cleveland Browns
The Browns go back to the defensive well with Lewis, who can cover the shiftier route runners either on the outside or in the slot. He broke up 28 passes on 182 targets over the last three years while allowing a passer rating of 46.0 on throws into his coverage.
34. San Francisco 49ers
Davis bring speed to the middle of the 49ers’ defense, and adds the necessary range to play the middle of their new cover-3/cover-1 scheme. He played through injury in 2016, but has the skills to affect the game in coverage, against the run, and as a pass-rusher, where he picked up six sacks, 16 QB hits, and 23 hurries over the past three years.
35. Jacksonville Jaguars
Takkarist McKinley, Edge, UCLA
The Jaguars continue to add pieces to the defense as McKinley adds yet another pass-rush option. He posted an 89.1 pass-rush grade on the back of nine sacks, 11 QB hits, and 37 hurries on 339 rushes in 2016.
"UCLA ED Takkarist McKinley can rush the passer from either side, 24 pressures from the left & 32 pressures from the right."
– @PFF_Jordan pic.twitter.com/YmNSidbB6D— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 16, 2017
36. Chicago Bears
Cordrea Tankersley, CB, Clemson
Tankersley has the length to play press man coverage, and he moves well enough to play off coverage, leading to strong three-year production that saw him allow a passer rating of only 40.7 on passes thrown his direction.
37. Los Angeles Rams
QB Jared Goff gets a weapon in Westbrook, who has the speed to stretch the field and the wiggle to get open at the intermediate level. He dominated the Big 12 last season and led all Power-5 receivers with 4.08 yards per route run.
38. Los Angeles Chargers
Taylor Moton, G, Western Michigan
Moton kicks inside after a strong career at Western Michigan. He allowed only eight QB pressures in 2016 (two QB hits, six hurries) and can start at right guard from Day 1 as the Chargers look to find some semblance of pass protection for quarterback Philip Rivers.
39. New York Jets
The high 40-yard-dash times are concerning (4.64 at the NFL Combine, 4.7-range at Florida's pro day), but Tabor’s tape is impressive. He is a bit of a risk-taker, but that also led to him getting his hands on 32 passes (23 pass breakups, nine interceptions) on only 143 targets the last three years.
40. Carolina Panthers
Melifonwu is an incredible athlete who continued to progress throughout his career at UConn. He can work well in Carolina’s two-high scheme, showing enough range on the back end while working downhill in the running game, just as he did in an impressive showing during Senior Bowl week.
"Like Byron Jones in 2014, Obi Melifonwu is not just a 'Workout Wonder;' has the film to match. Time to get on board that train"@PFF_Josh pic.twitter.com/OXO8jbiGUL
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 6, 2017
41. Cincinnati Bengals
Kamara is explosive with the ball in his hands, tying for second in the draft class with an elusive rating of 129.4 and ranking fourth with 2.40 yards per route run. He brings a versatile weapon to the Bengals' offense, capable of making plays both on the ground and as a receiver.
42. New Orleans Saints
The Saints double-dip at the cornerback position, this time adding Conley, who brings good size and movement skills. He can play press or off coverage, allowing a nation-low passer rating of 13.6 into his coverage, and while there was certainly some luck involved in that number, he adds another playmaker on the back end of a revamped New Orleans defense.
43. Philadelphia Eagles
Perhaps a bit more projection at this point, Jackson is an incredible athlete who has his ups and downs at cornerback. He possesses good ball skills, but he’ll find himself turned around at times in coverage. Still, he has the athleticism, room to improve, and special-teams skills to warrant a second-round pick.
44. Buffalo Bills
The run on cornerbacks continues as the Bills fill a need with King, who is one of the better zone corners in the draft. He has a good feel for route concepts, and opponents recorded a passer rating of 48.1 while throwing his way over the last three years. Throw in his sure tackling (only 11 misses on 176 attempts) and he’s a good fit for Buffalo’s defense.
45. Arizona Cardinals
Wilson has press-coverage ability that fits in with Arizona’s man-heavy scheme. He can play opposite CB Patrick Peterson, bringing his 6-foot-1 frame and solid movement skills to Arizona’s defense that desperately needs a No. 2 corner. Wilson allowed a passer rating of only 45.8 over the last three years.
46. Indianapolis Colts
We’re back to the cornerback well, this time with the Colts taking a chance on the injured Jones. It’s a worthwhile risk to add a first-round talent to the defense, and a team willing to potentially sacrifice his rookie season could get the payoff of a top 2-3 corner in this class with press-coverage ability and excellent ball skills.
47. Baltimore Ravens
Peppers can dabble in multiple roles on Baltimore’s defense, perhaps taking some snaps at linebacker or covering tight ends in nickel situations. If used in a pure strong safety role, he can make plays against the run as the extra man in the box and can line up over the slot against bigger receiver and tight ends.
"Even if Jabrill Peppers couldn't play a lick of defense I'd want him on my roster as a returner. No. 2 punt return grade in 2016"@PFF_Sam pic.twitter.com/0cKipwtdFU
— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 14, 2017
48. Minnesota Vikings
A perfect complement to safety Harrison Smith, Evans brings range on the back end and explosive coverage ability that ranked third among safeties in 2016, at 88.3. If he can cut down on the 23 missed tackles, the Vikings have one of the best safety duos in the league.
49. Washington Redskins
Washington adds some power to the interior, as Tomlinson is a classic Alabama defensive lineman who knows how to win at the point of attack with good technique, leading to a well-balanced 87.1 grade against the run in 2016 and an 84.7 grade as a pass-rusher.
50. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs add youth to the running back position with Hunt, who plays with great balance, leading to 76 missed tackles forced on the ground and another 22 as a receiver. He is a scheme-diverse runner with three-down ability.
51. Denver Broncos
Denver gets their offensive tackle here, as Robinson may not have played up to his first-round hype over the last three years, but he’s continued to improve. The right situation may just get him to play up to his potential. Robinson allowed a career-low 14 QB pressures in 2016.
52. Cleveland Browns (from Tennessee Titans)
Ahkello Witherspoon, CB, Colorado
The defensive overhaul continues in Cleveland as the Browns add length to their secondary in Witherspoon. At nearly 6-foot-3, he can press at the line and run with receivers downfield, all while adding strong ball skills that led to a nation-high 13 pass breakups in 2016.
"Colorado CB Ahkello Witherspoon has the length, athleticism and football IQ to be a Day 1 starter in the NFL as a press corner"@PFF_Jordan pic.twitter.com/2pkIDFqnsb
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 16, 2017
53. Detroit Lions
Detroit needs an influx of defensive line help, and Brantley is one of the best interior penetrators in the draft. He’s had an incredible run of three-year production on only 1,103 snaps, including seven sacks, 16 hits, and 41 hurries on 569 rushes—and his best football may be ahead of him.
54. Miami Dolphins
There are corners for every scheme and style in this draft, with Awuzie representing a strong fit for Miami’s zone-heavy attack. He closes quickly on the ball and he posted a coverage grade of at least 80.0 in three straight years.
55. New York Giants
The Giants’ offense adds another playmaker as Engram can win from the slot or in a “move” tight end role. He led the draft class of TEs in yards per route run, at 2.59, as well as deep receptions, with seven. Adding him to a loaded group of receivers should help QB Eli Manning age well.
56. Oakland Raiders
At 6-foot-3 with incredible movement skills, King turned heads at the NFL Combine, leading to plenty of first-round hype. He didn’t exactly play to that level in college, but he can succeed in press or off coverage and has the skills to thwart opposing downfield passing attacks.
57. Houston Texans
The Texans take their chances on Kizer who has as much natural quarterbacking ability as any signal-caller in the class. It’s a matter of consistency for the former Fighting Irish QB, who will alternate between impressive downfield throws and head-scratching easy misses. Houston is banking on working out the kinks with the “easy” stuff and hoping to see more of the pocket movement and intermediate accuracy that flashes in Kizer’s game.
Notre Dame QB Deshone Kizer had a 155.0 QB Rating on play action passes this year, best in college football.
Straight drop backs? 85.5 pic.twitter.com/3094Z4uzUo
— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 16, 2016
58. Seattle Seahawks
Seattle’s offensive line woes are well-documented, and Bolles should be able to contribute immediately with his bruising style in the run game that led to the No. 4 run-blocking grade in the nation in 2016. There are some concerns in pass-protection, where Bolles gave up 20 QB pressures, but it was his only year of FBS action, and there’s still room to improve despite him turning 25 years old before the start of the season.
59. Kansas City Chiefs
Joe Mixon, RB, Oklahoma
Off-field aside, Mixon is a versatile RB capable of running any scheme and adding a dimension to the passing attack. He is shifty as a runner and posted the nation’s top grade as a receiver in 2016. Mixon is a good fit for Kansas City’s offense that continues to add playmakers.
60. Dallas Cowboys
With safety Barry Church moving on, Williams is a good fit for the Dallas scheme, as he can play multiple coverages on the back end. He managed to haul in 11 interceptions over the last three years and does a fine job working downhill in coverage while bringing solid tackling to both the run and pass game.
Utah safety Marcus Williams surrendered, on average, just 0.09 yards per coverage snap in 2016.
Crazy draft stats:https://t.co/Sb60Lc5QZg pic.twitter.com/rGhNphH5D3
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 15, 2017
61. Green Bay Packers
Jones is a strong route-runner and brings solid hands as a potential possession receiver for Green Bay’s offense. He does fine work in the short and intermediate game, a good fit for the Packers' offense.
62. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers drafted Miami cornerback Artie Burns last year, and they add Corn Elder here, who may be an even better fit for what they do defensively. He’s excellent in zone coverage, playing with great feel and wrapping up as well as any cornerback in the class, with only 16 missed tackles on 155 attempts over the last three years.
63. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons lose Chris Chester to retirement, but Feeney should be able to step right into their zone scheme and succeed. He’s improved as a run-blocker every year and he’s been excellent in pass protection, allowing only 25 QB pressures on 1,239 attempts over the last three years.
64. Carolina Panthers (from New England Patriots)
The Panthers go back to the safety well, this time picking up more of a centerfield option in Jackson to complement Melifonwu, who is better closer to the line of scrimmage. Jackson is a former cornerback with strong coverage skills who adds another piece that is needed to slow down the high-powered passing attacks in the NFC South.
65. Cleveland Browns
Nathan Peterman, QB, Pittsburgh
The Browns finally pick a quarterback, and while they’ll still likely be in the market next season, Peterman is worth a shot at this point. He impressed in a couple of key areas, including his accuracy at the intermediate and deep level, and recorded one of the highest percentages of big-time throws in the class.
Nathan Peterman had the nation’s No. 2 passer rating when pressured at 114.7.https://t.co/jh39Euseqs
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 29, 2017
66. San Francisco 49ers
Smith-Schuster has his troubles separating at times, but he’s a physical receiver after the catch, averaging 6.1 yards after the catch per reception over the last three years. He brings more of a possession-type weapon to San Francisco’s offense.
67. Chicago Bears
Deatrich Wise, Jr., Edge, Arkansas
More fuel for the Bears’ defense—this time it’s a high-upside pass-rusher in Deatrich Wise, who put up incredible production on 647 rushes over the last three years, finishing with 18 sacks, 26 QB hits, and 48 hurries.
68. Jacksonville Jaguars
Roderick Johnson, OT, Florida State
This is a good fit for Johnson, who has tools to work with but needs time to progress. He can make all the blocks in the run game, it’s just a matter of ironing out some issues in pass protection, where he gave up three sacks, four QB hits, and nine hurries in 2016.
69. Los Angeles Rams
Pocic can step right in as the starter at center for the Rams, bringing his impressive movement skills (for a 6-foot-7 player) and strong pass-protection. He finished with the No. 3 grade among Power-5 centers in 2016.
70. New York Jets
Cooper Kupp, WR, Eastern Washington
Kupp is another receiver along the possession-receiver spectrum, as he uses his good footwork and subtle hand usage to create separation. He was excellent during the week of practice at the Senior Bowl and he’s a good fit for new Jets quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (selected in Round 1), who excels in the short and intermediate area.
71. Los Angeles Chargers
Carlos Henderson, WR, Louisiana Tech
The Chargers add a weapon to the passing game in Henderson, who is dynamic with the ball in his hands. He forced 48 missed tackles, nearly twice as many as the next closest receiver, and his 3.55 yards per route run ranked fourth in the draft class.
72. New England Patriots (from Carolina Panthers)
New England adds another safety to the mix, and Thompson fits the Patriots' style, as he’s capable of filling multiple roles, including playing the slot. He won the PFF College award for the nation’s best coverage defender after tying for the lead among safeties with seven interceptions. (Thompson also recorded the third-most pass breakups, with seven.)
🏆 Best Coverage Defender 🏆
Tedric Thompson, @RunRalphieRun
All awards: https://t.co/bPy6ujiot7 pic.twitter.com/7d7WeWBHqK
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 5, 2017
73. Cincinnati Bengals
Smoot was dabbling with first-round hype coming into the year, and he’s a solid pass-rusher who ranked among the nation’s best for the last two seasons. He led the draft class by picking up a bull-rush pressure once every 28.4 snaps.
74. Philadelphia Eagles
There’s some development needed to Garcia’s game, particularly as a run-blocker, where he graded at 48.8 last season, but tying up some technique issues should bring him more in line with his impressive 87.3 pass-block grade that ranked sixth in the nation in 2016.
75. Buffalo Bills
Trey Hendrickson, Edge, Florida Atlantic
One of the nation’s most productive pass-rushers, Hendrickson picked up nine sacks, 13 QB hits, and 56 hurries in 2016, leading the draft class in pass-rushing productivity, at 20.5. He showed great athleticism at the NFL Combine, as well, making him a good value option in the third round as the Bills look to add more disruption off the edge.
76. New Orleans Saints
Curtis Samuel, RB/WR, Ohio State
Samuel needs an offense that will take advantage of his skills as both a runner and as a receiver, and what better place than New Orleans? He’ll play in the slot where he can run smooth routes at the short an intermediate level while keeping defenses off balance just enough with some work out of the backfield, much like he did at Ohio State.
Position fit: Hybrid between running back and receiver
Player comparison: Percy Harvin
Curtis Samuel profilehttps://t.co/6D64Pl6wSg
— PFF Fantasy & Betting (@PFF_Fantasy) March 27, 2017
77. Arizona Cardinals
Vincent Taylor, DI, Oklahoma State
With DE Calais Campbell moving on, Taylor adds a big body up front that ranked second among interior defensive linemen with a pass-rushing productivity of 13.6. He improved every year at Oklahoma State, and another step forward would be a huge get for the Cardinals.
78. Baltimore Ravens
Mack Hollins, WR, North Carolina
The Ravens love adding deep threats for QB Joe Flacco, and Hollins has blazing game speed, as his second gear is often difficult for opposing cornerbacks. He’s battled injury, but averaged 20.6 yards per reception with 20 touchdowns on 81 catches over the last three years.
79. Minnesota Vikings
Gerald Everett, TE, South Alabama
Everett led all tight ends in missed tackles forced the last two years, showing what he’s capable of with the ball in his hands. He’s a perfect complement to more traditional tight end Kyle Rudolph, and can contribute as a move tight end or slot receiver at the next level.
80. Indianapolis Colts
Hill is flying under the radar in a deep safety class, but he has in-the-box skills against the run and enough coverage ability to hang with tight ends. His 84.1 overall grade ranked ninth in the nation in 2016.
81. Washington Redskins
Baker can play deep safety or slot corner, adding versatility to any defense. His 85.4 overall grade ranked sixth among the nation’s safeties and his fearless, attacking style is reminiscent of Tyrann Mathieu of the Arizona Cardinals.
82. Denver Broncos
Another safety comes off the board, this time in the form of Nathan Gerry, who posted the No. 2 coverage grade in the nation in 2016, at 90.6. He excels in two-high looks, particularly working downhill and making plays on the ball—both good fits for new Denver head coach Vance Joseph.
83. Tennessee Titans
An injury slowed Mathis’ fast start last season, but he still managed five sacks, four QB hits, and 21 hurries on only 120 rushes. He plays strong on the edge, adding yet another option as the Titans look to the future at their rush outside linebacker position.
84. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tanoh Kpassagnon, Edge, Villanova
Kpassagnon showed great flashes during Senior Bowl week before posting one of the top pass-rushing grades in the game. At 6-foot-7 and nearly 290 pounds, he fits as a base defensive end in Tampa Bay’s scheme with potential to rush from the interior in sub-packages.
85. Detroit Lions
An underrated tight end in this class, Kittle moves well and can block among the best in the class. He’s at his best when used on the move and he has just enough wiggle to win from the slot and when matched up against linebackers in the passing game.
"You can spend a 1st on OJ Howard, or you can take George Kittle in the 3rd and get an elite player in round 1 instead."@PFF_Josh pic.twitter.com/L1J6uFa66Y
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 9, 2017
86. Minnesota Vikings (from Miami Dolphins)
Smart turned heads with a strong week at the Senior Bowl, but he’s put together three years of excellent grades, finishing 2016 with a well-rounded 86.7 against the run (16th in nation) and 87.4 as a pass-rusher (fourth in nation).
87. New York Giants
Johnson adds an interior penetrator to the Giants’ defensive line after posting an 84.0 pass-rush grade that ranked 22nd in the country. Fit and value match up here, as he can play 3-technique in New York’s scheme.
88. Oakland Raiders
Raekwon McMillan, LB, Ohio State
Oakland still has work to do in the middle of its defense, and McMillan brings a solid presence who generally makes the routine play, especially in the run game. He only missed 23 tackles on 268 attempts over the last three years, and his 85.4 grade against the run ranked 10th in the nation in 2016.
89. Houston Texans
Rasul Douglas, CB, West Virginia
Douglas has the 6-foot-2 frame to play press man coverage, but the experience and ball skills to excel in a zone-heavy scheme. If he can improve his press technique, he could be a steal in the third round after ranking eighth in the nation with an 86.4 coverage grade while playing West Virginia’s soft zone coverages in 2016.
90. Seattle Seahawks
Bucky Hodges, TE/WR, Virginia Tech
Hodges is a similar athlete to current Seahawks tight end Jimmy Graham, and could develop into a mismatch weapon in the passing game. He was a wide receiver last year at Virginia Tech, and is raw as a blocker, but uses his big frame to win both downfield and in the back-shoulder game.
91. Kansas City Chiefs
Another excellent size/speed cornerback prospect, Griffin can compete for the Chiefs’ No. 2 CB role. He posted the nation’s No. 11 coverage grade, at 86.2, finishing with 11 pass breakups and four interceptions. He’ll give up his fair share of plays, but Griffin offsets it with a playmaking ability that is among the best in the class.
92. Dallas Cowboys
DeMarcus Walker, Edge, Florida State
Walker doesn’t have a clean position fit, but he can line up outside on early downs and do damage as an interior pass-rusher. He finished last season with 17 sacks, 12 QB hits, and 34 hurries on 457 rushes, and adds another pass-rushing option to the Cowboys’ defensive front.
93. Green Bay Packers
Brown put together three straight years of strong play, culminating in a 92.4 overall grade that ranked second in the nation in 2016. He lacks ideal height, but uses his leverage in an attacking manner against the run while showing enough athleticism to hold his own in coverage. Brown is one of the more underrated players in the draft class.
94. Pittsburgh Steelers
Big Ben is inching closer toward retirement, and Kaaya represents a valuable mid-round developmental option. He has his issues against pressure, where his adjusted completion percentage of 41.3 percent ranked 43rd in the draft class, but when throwing on time and within rhythm, he can make throws to every level of the field.
95. Atlanta Falcons
Vanderdoes provides more beef up front for Atlanta, as the former Bruin is a potential disruptor in the middle and has quick hands. His peaks are as good as it gets in the class, but he tapered off in 2016, and conditioning appears to be an issue. He’s worth the risk at this point in the draft.
96. New England Patriots
It’s hard to argue with Anderson’s pass-rush production the last three years, as he’s accumulated 22 sacks, 27 QB hits, and 80 hurries on 703 rushes, but he lacks an ideal position fit at the next level. New England will find a way to use him as a pass-rusher while setting the edge on early downs in the run game, where he consistently moved SEC blockers into the backfield.
97. Miami Dolphins (compensatory pick)
Butt is coming off injury, but when healthy, he’s one of the best receiving options in the draft class. He is a weapon in the middle of the field and can compete for immediate targets in Miami’s offense.
98. Carolina Panthers (compensatory pick)
Hansen had a breakout 2016 season that saw him work the vertical route tree well. He has good body control that allows him to win downfield, and he adds a different type of weapon for the Panthers’ passing game that mostly features big-bodied options.
99. Baltimore Ravens (compensatory pick)
There’s no immediate need at tackle for Baltimore, but McDermott fits the scheme well and has been a solid pass-protector the last three years, while his run blocking has improved every season.
100. Tennessee Titans (compensatory pick)
Sutton has had an up-and-down career, perhaps peaking in 2014. That said, he can play man or zone and has the skills to play in the slot, or perhaps even at safety, where he saw some reps during Senior Bowl practice.
101. Denver Broncos (compensatory pick)
Godwin adds a potential deep threat to Denver’s offense, as he has the size, speed and ball skills to stretch the field. He uses his frame well, and will make life easier for whichever quarterback Denver trots out there in the coming years.
Penn State WR Chris Godwin's combined numbers for 2015 and 2016: 128 catches, 11 drops. pic.twitter.com/p0YQrPEcAJ
— PFF College (@PFF_College) March 4, 2017
102. Seattle Seahawks (compensatory pick)
With plenty of experience in a zone scheme at Miami, Isidora is a good fit in Seattle, and he could step in right away at guard. He’s been up and down in his career, sandwiching good 2014 and 2016 seasons around a poor 2015, but at his best, he can move people at the point of attack while providing solid pass protection.
103. New Orleans Saints (compensatory pick)
Taywan Taylor, WR, Western Kentucky
More weapons for QB Drew Brees, this time in the form of Taylor, who brings solid outside route-running that helped him rank third in the draft class with 3.92 yards per route run in 2016.
104. Kansas City Chiefs (compensatory pick)
Kansas City brings an athletic option to the middle of the field as Evans has the skills to cover, as evidenced by his 87.5 coverage grade that ranked fourth in the nation in 2016. It’s just a matter of week-to-week consistency and cutting down on the 38 missed tackles he accumulated over the last three years.
105. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory pick)
Sprinkle uses his body well as a receiver, as he has the big frame to win at the short and intermediate levels. He’s a developing run-blocker, but can step in as yet another mismatch option offered up in this deep tight end class.
106. Seattle Seahawks (compensatory pick)
Ogunjobi was excellent during Senior Bowl week after he posted the nation’s No. 4 grade against the run, at 90.4. He can compete for early-down snaps immediately.
Larry Ogunjobi had the nation’s No. 4 grade against the run at 90.4.https://t.co/hOAqDkGpQI
— PFF College (@PFF_College) April 1, 2017
107. New York Jets (compensatory pick)
Foreman had a breakout 2016 season, rushing for 2,016 yards and 15 touchdowns. He moves well for his size and has enough juice to get to the second level to create big plays, though he may be limited in the passing game.
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