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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Mitch Trubisky, DeShone Kizer on the rise

By Brad Weiss

Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs for a large gain after a reception 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 for a large gain after a reception during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) points to the sidelines during the first half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) points to the sidelines during the first half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

In 2015, the Washington Redskins came out of nowhere and won the NFC East. The team made the switch to Kirk Cousins at quarterback over former Rookie of the Year Robert Griffin III, and it proved to be a stroke of genius by head coach Jay Gruden. In 2016, Cousins once again played terrific football, but they just could not string together enough wins to make another run at a playoff spot.

The biggest area of weakness has to be along the defensive line, where the team showed the propensity to get pushed around a lot in 2016. They need to go out and get someone who can help bolster the unit up front, and Malik McDowell of Michigan State is one of the better all-around defensive line prospects in this draft. McDowell has the size and speed to play all along the defensive line, and he would be a perfect fit for the Redskins defense in 2017.

The NFC East is filled with good young talent on the offensive side of the ball, so the Redskins should add depth to their defensive unit if they wish to stay competitive. The offense looks to be set, and they do have one of the best cornerbacks in the league in Josh Norman. If they can add a talent like McDowell to get after the quarterback for the 2017 season, they may be able to make another run at an NFC East title.

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