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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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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 /
17

Malik McDowell

DL, Michigan State

One year removed from winning the NFC East, the Washington Redskins saw themselves on the outside looking in come playoff time in 2016. Quarterback Kirk Cousins proved to the world that the 2015 campaign was not a fluke, and running back Robert Kelley showed that he can carry the load on the offensive side of the ball. The real issue with the Redskins was their play up front on both sides of the ball, and that is the area that needs to be addressed come draft day.

Malik McDowell of Michigan State is an exciting player, as he has the size and speed to play in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. He can get around the edge with the best of them, but he is more known for his ability to plug up holes in run defense. The biggest issues the Redskins had last season was they could not get stops on short-yardage situations, which McDowell could certainly help them to do if they take him in next April’s draft.

McDowell has not stated that he is going to declare for the NFL Draft as yet, and rumors before the season were that he would not declare unless he was a top-5 pick. However, the Michigan State program is in turmoil, and another year on campus may actually hurt his draft status. He needs to turn pro now, and with his physical gifts, he could be one of the better defensive players at the next level in this draft.

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