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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; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

The Carolina Panthers were the darlings of the 2015 season, as they nearly ran the table to an undefeated season. However, the 2016 season brought more losses than wins, and saw them become just another team to  go from a Super Bowl to out of the playoffs in one season. Still, they are loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, and one good draft pick could bring them back to the playoffs.

Quarterback Cam Newton is one of the best in the game, and he has proven that he can do it all on the field. However, he needs help in the backfield, and with a healthy Kelvin Benjamin back on the field, grabbing a starting running back has to be a priority. Jonathan Stewart can still handle his fair share of carries, but the team needs to be looking to the future at the position.

Florida State’s Dalvin Cook has been one of the best backs the ACC has ever seen during his time with the Seminoles, and he has the speed and strength to be an impact player at the next level. He has proven during his time in Tallahassee to be an elite talent, and his game absolutely equates to the NFL. He is going to make an impact immediately at the next level, and the Panthers need someone who is going to take some of the pressure off of Cam Newton going forward.

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