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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Wild Card Edition

By Tyler Brooke

Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) carries the ball as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) defends during the first half at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Iowa City, IA, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) carries the ball as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) defends during the first half at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports /
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14

Derek Barnett

EDGE, Tennessee

A lot of weaknesses were exposed for the Indianapolis Colts this season. Unfortunately, you can’t draft a new head coach or general manager (zing!). On the bright side, at least the Colts didn’t trade away this first-round pick for another washed-up running back.

If the Colts want to make the playoffs again in 2017, then they’re going to need to focus on defense early in the draft instead of reaching for a running back. This class is loaded with running backs, and the Colts can afford to wait until the third or fourth round to find one.

Finding a talented pass rusher could be a good move for the Colts, especially if Tennessee’s Derek Barnett is still on the board with the No. 14 pick. Barnett is a proven leader for the Volunteers and was able to single-handedly take over some games.

Barnett is explosive off of the snap and is strong enough to manhandle opposing offensive linemen. He has nice size at 6-foot-3 and 265 pounds and has great play recognition to either rush the passer or stop the run.

Robert Mathis may very well be done after this season, and the Colts are going to need another impact edge rusher if their defense is going to strike fear in any opponents next year.

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