2017 NFL Mock Draft: Deshaun Watson goes at top

NFL Mock Draft: Week 1

Sep 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) celebrates his sack against Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) (not pictured)in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

8 of 8

Jan 1, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) scores on a 75-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the 2016 Rose Bowl at Rose Bowl. Stanford defeated Iowa 45-16. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

29. Carolina Panthers: Royce Freeman, RB, Oregon

Jonathan Stewart is productive for the Panthers, but he is aging at 30 years old. Trying to land one of the top running back prospects in the 2017 draft would be a strong move for Carolina.

Royce Freeman is an extremely athletic back with incredible balance with the ball in his hands. I considered Samaje Perine here as well, but Freeman is a perfect fit for the Panthers’ offense.

30. New England Patriots: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford

Christian McCaffrey is one of the most talented players in college football. His combination of quickness and athleticism is absolutely unparalleled at that level. However, his lack of bulk for the RB position may cause some teams to pause in the first round.

It is certainly possible that McCaffrey will be gone long before this. That being said, NFL scouts are typically stuck in their ways. I would not be surprised to see McCaffrey fall in the draft, even with his obvious ability.

If that happens, a forward-thinking organization like the Patriots would be an incredible landing spot.

31. Green Bay Packers: Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB, Tennessee

The Packers have struggled to find consistent play at inside linebacker in recent years. Clay Matthews has been their best player at the position, but he is best suited on the outside.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin would be an absolute steal here for the Packers. He is an active and instinctive linebacker who has plus athleticism. He is also a strong player against both the run and in pass coverage. Reeves-Maybin would be a great pick for the Packers.

32. Arizona Cardinals: Devonte Fields, EDGE, Louisville

The Cardinals’ defense is incredible. They have been extremely productive in recent years but do not have a stud outside pass rusher. They have been able to create a pass rush, but would benefit from a true number one guy.

Devonte Fields has massive upside as an outside pass rusher. He would be a perfect fit for the Cardinals, and could easily grow into that number one pass rusher for the team.

Home/NFL Mock Draft