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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Clemson stars dominate

By Brad Weiss

Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson throws a pass during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson throws a pass during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) walks off the field after a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) walks off the field after a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made Jameis Winston their first round pick back in 2015, selecting the star quarterback from Florida State University. Since becoming the team’s signal-caller, Winston has helped the organization turn around, and they are now on the brink of the playoffs. The Buccaneers are not far away from being a contender in a tough NFC South, and a few players could make all the difference this offseason.

One area of concern is in the secondary, where the team’s safeties are getting up there in age. The unit played well as a team last season, but the organization needs to make sure they are getting younger in the defensive backfield. Bringing in a player like Jabrill Peppers would go a long way in bolstering that group, giving the Buccaneers the depth they need to be able to shut down guys like Drew Brees, Cam Newton, and Matt Ryan, all of which play in their division.

Peppers is the most versatile prospect in this draft, as he played all over the field for the Michigan Wolverines this past season. The standout linebacker is making the permanent switch to safety at the next level, and he definitely has the speed to do so. Peppers not only can make an impact on defense, but he has also played running back and returner for the Wolverines. Adding a player of his caliber is going to make the Bucs better next season, and based on their recent growth, they could be a playoff team in 2017.

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