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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks rule top 10

By Brad Weiss

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws in the pocket against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws in the pocket against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-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 /
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Malik McDowell

DL, Michigan State

By all means, the Detroit Lions have to be happy with their 2016 season as whole. The organization lost the face of the franchise after the 2015 campaign, as star wide receiver Calvin Johnson decided to retire out of nowhere. However, that did not stop quarterback Matthew Stafford from having one of the best seasons of his career, even though it ended with a rough skid.

Still, the Lions reached the postseason, and will head into the 2017 NFL season as a favorite to get back there once again. Stafford is one of the best quarterbacks in the game, and the team has some great talent on both sides of the ball. If they want to continue to compete at a high level, they need to bolster their defensive line, and they could look instate for their first round draft pick this April.

Malik McDowell of Michigan State is an incredible specimen, and has the ability to be an impact player at the next level. McDowell has the size and speed to play in a 3-4, or a 4-3 defense, and brings the kind of tenacity that should light up Ford Field for years to come. Playing inside the state of Michigan in college will make him fan favorite for the Lions, who will be looking to get out of the Wild Card round next season.

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