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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks rule all

By Brad Weiss

Sep 17, 2016; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) looks to pass in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) looks to pass in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

LSU. Leonard Fournette. 7. player. 87. . RB

In a gutty performance this past weekend, the Carolina Panthers beat a pretty good San Diego Chargers team, 28-16. The defense did a nice job corralling the potent San Diego offense, and kicker Graham Cano kicked four field goals in a nice team win. However, the lack of run game was apparent, as aging Jonathan Stewart averaged under three yards per carry.

At this point in his career, Stewart can be relied on to score in the red zone, and give you those two or three yard carries. This team needs some youth at the running back position, and Leonard Fournette has to be considered the best option in this draft class. Fournette declared himself eligibile for the 2017 NFL Draft earlier this month, and teams will certainly be jockeying for his services come draft day.

Fournette is a rare blend of size and speed, and he would be a perfect complement to Stewart at the next level. Adding a back like Fournette would give the team an explosive playmaker in the backfield, while allowing Stewart to continue to produce on short-yardage opportunities. While his career at LSU may not have yielded a National Championship, Fournette is definitely a first round talent, and the Panthers need to add a breakaway back to their roster.

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