Fansided

2017 NFL Mock Draft: Deshaun Watson heads to Broadway

By Brad Weiss

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) walks on the field during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) walks on the field during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
21 of 32
Next
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
21

Taco Charlton

DE, Michigan

The Detroit Lions had a very nice season in 2016, as they shook off the loss of Calvin Johnson to retirement to nearly win the NFC North. They ended up losing to Green Bay in Week 17, and then to the Seattle Seahawks on Wild Card weekend, but it was a still a solid season nonetheless. Quarterback Matthew Stafford has one more year left on his deal, and with all the talent the team has on offense, the time is now to win.

Detroit needs to add some depth to their defensive line, as they were pushed around late in the season. They do have some solid players up front, including Haloti Ngata and Ezekiel Ansah, but the unit lacks the depth needed to get after players like Aaron Rodgers for four quarters. Michigan’s Taco Charlton has proven he can be used all over the defensive line, and would be a perfect fit in Detroit.

Charlton really burst onto the scene during the Wolverines loss to Ohio State, but his talent has been undeniable all season long. He can play in a 3-4 or a 4-3, as he has the speed to be an elite pass rusher at the next level. The Lions may be one or two players away from being a team that could earn a bye in next year’s playoffs, and bolster the defensive line has to be a priority heading into next offseason.

Home/NFL