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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Patrick Mahomes on the rise

By Brad Weiss

Oct 24, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) looks to pass the ball against the Oklahoma Sooners during the fourth quarter at Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) looks to pass the ball against the Oklahoma Sooners during the fourth quarter at Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Derek Barnett

DE, Tennessee

The Baltimore Ravens took a step back in 2016, as Joe Flacco and company failed to play consistent football throughout. The offense and defense is starting to get a bit long in the tooth, and this offseason is going to be a big one in determining the future course of the franchise. While Flacco is still a franchise quarterback, the defense needs their next young star, and Derek Barnett of Tennessee could be the answer.

Barnett had a record-breaking career at Tennessee, breaking Hall of Famer Reggie White’s career sack record. He is as explosive a player as there is in this draft off the ball, and his combination of strength and speed definitely makes him a first round talent. The Ravens have been synonymous with having a bruising defense, and Barnett would go along way in keeping that tradition inside M&T Bank Stadium.

Terrell Suggs is a borderline Hall of Famer, but his time as the leader of the Ravens defense is starting to draw to a close. While Eric Weddle is still an elite safety, the time has come for the Ravens to bring in their next great pass rusher. When all is said and done, Barnett may be the most electric player in this draft, and he would perfectly fit the mold of what the Ravens are looking for on the defensive side of the ball.

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