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2017 NFL mock draft: Mitch Trubisky heads west

By Brad Weiss

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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December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) celebrates after intercepting a pass against the Clemson Tigers during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) celebrates after intercepting a pass against the Clemson Tigers during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
5

Malik Hooker

S, Ohio State

Thanks to their trade with the Los Angeles Rams prior to the 2016 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans will draft fifth overall despite the fact that they nearly made the playoffs this past season. Quarterback Marcus Mariota has established himself as one of the best young players at his position, and the tandem of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry at running back was tough to stop  this season. They are one or two players away from being a playoff team in 2017, and having two first round draft picks will certainly help.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have been one of the best teams in college football over the past few seasons, and their defense is a big reason why. Safety Malik Hooker has been a standout player for the Buckeyes in the secondary, and his presence in the defensive backfield has made it tough to pass against Ohio State. He is going to be a terrific pro, as his ability to make plays happen is rivaled by few in this draft.

Tennessee is likely to draft an offensive player later in round one, so securing an elite defensive talent is a priority this early. They have the advantage of being able to swing a deal as well, as they are not as desperate as some teams are to get a quarterback. This could be the draft that turns them into a perennial playoff team, so getting it right is of the utmost importance this April.

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