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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Running backs steal spotlight

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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Dec 30, 2016; Nashville , TN, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Ryker Fyfe (17) throws the ball as Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) defends during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2016; Nashville , TN, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Ryker Fyfe (17) throws the ball as Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) defends during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /
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Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

Playing in the AFC South has its advantages, as the Indianapolis Colts nearly made the playoffs despite it being a down year for the franchise. Quarterback Andrew Luck is considered one of the best signal-callers in the game, but the franchise cannot continue to ruin good years of his prime. They need to reload on defense, and bring in some good, young talent to be able to compete in a division that should be very winnable once again in 2017.

Derek Barnett of Tennessee is a freak of nature, and has the kind of ability that can change a game at any time. Recently, Barnett broke Hall of Famer Reggie White’s career sack total for the Volunteers, and while he may not have the same impact as White did in the NFL, he should be a very good pro. Not only is he extremely quick off the ball, but he can play on the inside if needed, as he has shown he can plug up the run game.

The Colts have a bunch of talent on their roster, but the defense is getting pretty old. If they can bring in a guy like Barnett and put him on the edge, they should be able to get after the quarterbacks in their division. Each team in the AFC South is getting better, and while the Colts have the best quarterback of the bunch, their defense has proven to be their downfall in recent years.

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