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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Jets go quarterback

By Brad Weiss

Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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O.J. Howard

TE, Alabama

For the Denver Broncos, the 2016 NFL season was quite a disappointment. Coming off a Super Bowl win the year before, the Broncos were hoping to ride their defense to a potential repeat. However, they came into the year with an unknown at quarterback, as second-year man Trevor Siemian beat out rookie Paxton Lynch and veteran Mark Sanchez in the offseason. In the end, the defense could only do so much, as a lack of running game proved to be the death nail for the Broncos.

Heading into the 2017 season, the Broncos will have a new head coach, as Gary Kubiak has to retire for health reasons. No matter who is under center this season, the need for a quality tight end has to be at the top of the team’s offseason wish list. O.J. Howard of Alabama is a game-changer at the position, and many believe he is the best tight end in this draft.

Due to the fact that the Crimson Tide like to run first, Howard’s skills were not often utilized during his time on campus. However, he proved his worth in big games, earning MVP of the Tides’ National Championship Game two years ago. He is going to be a terrific pro, and whether or not it is Lynch or Siemian under center, either quarterback is going to benefit from having an option like him in the passing game.

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