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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; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs 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 during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
6

Leonard Fournette

RB, LSU

The New York Jets were a complete joke this past season, and this after finishing the 2015 season one game out of the playoffs. It seems that the Week 17 loss to the Buffalo Bills continued into the 2016 season, where the team did absolutely nothing on both sides of the ball. The only bright spot was the fact that they did not lock up quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to a long-term deal, as he proved that the 2015 season was just a fluke.

While the Jets may take a stab at a quarterback in the first round, especially if the Bears pass on Deshaun Watson, we believe they will look to lock up their future at the running back position. Bilal Powell ran very well for the team in 2016, but based on how the coaching staff used him, it is clear he is not their No. 1 choice at the position. LSU running back Leonard Fournette has been rated as the best overall player in this draft, and he would be an instant fan favorite in New York.

Fournette was built for the NFL, and he even sat out his team’s bowl game so he can prepare for the NFL Draft. He is an incredible blend of size and speed, and will be a three-down back at the next level. The Jets needs to find their next quarterback, and while they will likely grab a veteran to play that position next season via free agency, passing up on Fournette at No. 6 would just been an insane move.

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