2017 NFL Mock Draft: Running backs steal spotlight

By Brad Weiss | Jan 18, 2017

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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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) reacts after bring brought down by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) during the second quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

Reuben Foster

LB, Alabama

One look at the Cincinnati Bengals roster and it is clear that they are much better than their record would have indicated this past season. Still, head coach Marvin Jones has not won a playoff game during his time with the team, and the clock may be ticking on his tenure with the organization. The Bengals need to win now, and bringing in someone who is going to make an immediate impact is absolutely necessary at this point.

Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster is one of the best players in this draft, and is by far the best linebacker of the class. He has been an impact player for the Crimson Tide during his years on campus, and has been the anchor of one of the best defenses that college football has ever seen. He is going to be a devastating player at the next level, and would fit in perfectly in Cincinnati if they were to take him at No. 9.

The AFC South is a very winnable division, so there is no reason to believe that the Bengals could be back on top next season. The Steelers have been very good this postseason, but there was a time during the season when it looked like they would not even make the playoffs. Jones is still one of the best coaches in the league, and bringing in a player like Foster is going to make the Bengals defense a scary one next season.

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