2017 NFL mock draft: Mitch Trubisky heads west

Sep 19, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) warms-up before the start of a game against the Utah State Aggies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) warms-up before the start of a game against the Utah State Aggies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
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Taco Charlton

DE, Michigan

The New York Giants had one of the worst defenses in football back in 2015, and it was clear the team needed wholesale changes all over the roster. The organization went out and got some great talent for defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, and he was able to turn around the units fortunes in one season. Heading into 2017, the defense can be seen as a strength, but there is still reason to draft on that side of the ball come April.

Jason Pierre-Paul may not return to the team, as he has said he is not going to sign another one-year deal. He proved during the 2016 season that he is once again an elite talent at defensive end, and he is going to want to get paid like one. The Giants already spent a ton of money on Olivier Vernon, so JPP’s tenure in New York will likely come to an end.

Taco Charlton is an exciting defnesive end prospect who could hear his name called by the Giants on draft night. Charlton has the size and speed to play on the inside, or outside of the defensive line, and some believe he could also play outside linebacker. He is exactly the kind of player the Giants need to bring in to make sure they do not take a step back defensively.