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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 /
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Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) tackles North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) tackles North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dawuane Smoot

DE, Illinois

The New England Patriots are once again the favorite to win the Super Bowl, and the road to the big game will go through Foxboro Stadium. Quarterback Tom Brady has played at an MVP level since coming off suspension, and the defense has been much better than advertised. There are still plenty of solid AFC teams left in the playoff, but it is going to be very hard to beat this Patriots team this year.

While the defense has played extremely well, they could always use help up front. During his time at the University of Illinois, Dawuane Smoot has had the privilege of playing underneath head coach Lovie Smith. Smith has made it his quest to make sure Smoot is drafted in the first round, and they could certainly happen come next April.

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Smoot is an explosive player off the ball, and has the stength to bring down running backs with ease. The Patriots are amazing at building up young players, and Smoot would be in an incredible situation if the Patriots come calling at No. 32. He has had to work for everything he has earned at the University of Illinois, and that is just the kind of player that head coach Bill Belichick likes to take under his wing.

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