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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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October 1, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) brings down Arizona Wildcats quarterback Khalil Tate (14) during the second half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 1, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) brings down Arizona Wildcats quarterback Khalil Tate (14) during the second half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Takkarist McKinley

Edge, UCLA

Out of nowhere, the Detroit Lions made it to the NFL Playoffs this past season, despite the fact they lost their best playmaker to retirement the year before. Playing without Calvin Johnson at wide receiver proved to be no problem for quarterback Matthew Stafford, who had one of the best seasons of his career. While the Lions look to be pretty stacked on offense heading into the 2017 season, the team does need help on the defensive side of the ball, and that is where they should look to pick from in April.

The problems with the Lions defense were on full display the last two games of the season, as they were shredded by the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks. The team needs to add some depth to their defensive line, and Takkarist McKinley from UCLA is one of the more exciting edge players in this draft. The Lions do have some quality talent up front, so if they can add McKinley, it should give them a chance against the likes of Aaron Rodgers moving forward.

Not only can McKinley get the edge, but he is also quite the playmaker in the run game. During his time with the Bruins, McKinley has proven to be a menace in the Pac-12, and his skill set actually equates better at the pro level. He can be used in either a 3-4 or 4-3 defense, so not matter where he goes in April, he should make an immediate impact during his rookie season.

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