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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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Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /
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Zach Cunningham

LB, Vanderbilt

What a sad way to end a season. The Oakland Raiders looked like a team that could challenge for a Super Bowl berth in 2016, but saw their dreams go out the window when Derek Carr broke his leg in the team’s Week 16 victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Playing with Matt McGloin and Connor Cook under center, the Raiders would lose in Week 17 and in the Wild Card round, seeing their once promising season go up in flames.

While it was evident that the team cannot win without Carr under center, it was also evident that the team needs to get better on the defensive side of the ball. All of the pieces are in place for this to be an elite offense once again in 2017, but their defense has shown too many holes the past two years. They need to upgrade on all levels, and bringing in a solid linebacker is a good place to start.

Vanderbilt’s Zach Cunningham is one of the more intriguing prospects in this draft, as he has the ability to play in any defensive scheme. He is a very long player, who can cause disruption with his incredible reach. He is also a punishing hitter, who can make plays in the run game, and also take out receivers going over the middle. His bruising style of play would play well with Raider Nation if the team can grab him this late in the first round.

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