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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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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) looks on during warm-ups prior to the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) looks on during warm-ups prior to the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Reuben Foster

LB, Alabama

The Cincinnati Bengals struggled through a very rough season in 2016, failing to make the playoffs despite having a roster loaded with talent. Quarterback Andy Dalton continues to be a solid player at the position, and when healthy, A.J. Green may be a top-3 wide receiver in the AFC. There are plenty of pieces in place for a run at the AFC North title in 2017, and getting it right at No. 9 could make all the difference this offseason.

Head coach Marvin Lewis is one of the best in the conference, though that has not translated come playoff time. Incredibly, Lewis has never won a playoff game as the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, and he could be on the hot seat if he cannot do so next season. The Bengals need to bolster their defense this offseason, and drafting a quality linebacker is definitely the place to start.

Reuben Foster of the Alabama Crimson Tide is the best linebacker in this draft class, and his intensity would fit perfectly with the Bengals. He is the kind of player that can really change the culture on the defense, and would instantly become a leader for the Bengals on that side of the ball. He can play all over the field, and with the Bengals playing in a very winnable division, his addition could prove huge for the team in 2017.

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