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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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Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Damarea Crockett (16) runs the ball and is tackled by Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) during the second half at Faurot Field. Missouri won 26-17. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /
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Zach Cunningham

LB, Vanderbilt

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a successful season by any measure in 2016, making it all the way to the AFC Championship Game. In that game, the Steelers were embarrassed by the New England Patriots, who went on to win their fifth Super Bowl with Tom Brady at quarterback. While the Steelers were shorthanded due to the loss of Le’Veon Bell early in the game, it was really their defense that let them down in the biggest game of the season.

This week, the Steelers announced that they would like to bring back James Harrison for the 2017 NFL season. Harrison has long been the leader of the Steelers defense, and though he is up there in age, he is in terrific shape. While Harrison may come back, the Steelers do need to bring in some youth at the linebacker position, and Zach Cunningham from Vanderbilt would be a perfect fit.

Not only does Cunningham have the physical gifts to be a standout player in the NFL, but bringing him in to learn alongside Harrison would give the Steelers a nice bridge to their future. Nobody has a better work ethic than Harrison, and that is the kind of player you want your young guys to emulate. Cunningham has the size and strength to be a punishing player at the next level, and the Steelers need to make sure they improve their defense if they want to make another Super Bowl run in 2017.

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