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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Bears tap Deshaun Watson

By Brad Weiss

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports.
Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports. /
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Dalvin Cook

RB, Florida State

The Indianapolis Colts struggled during the 2016 NFL season, failing to make the playoffs once again. Despite the inconsistent play, they were actually still alive for a playoff spot up until late in the season, which is impressive considering the huge holes in their roster. The offensive line is an absolute joke, and if they want to keep franchise quarterback Andrew Luck off the shelf moving forward, they seriously need to upgrade there.

While the team could certainly draft an offensive tackle here, the smart move would be bringing in a franchise running back. Of the top running backs in this class, Dalvin Cook of Florida State is as good as anybody, and just may be the first back taken in April. We feel Leonard Fournette will be the first running selected, meaning the Colts should be able to grab Cook at No. 14.

Luck needs help in the backfield, and the lack of a true running back means the opposing defenses can stack the box against him. He can only do so much, and the amount of hits he takes could significantly shorten his career. Cook would give the Colts the kind of explosive running back that could give Luck protection, while adding a brand new dimension to the team’s offensive schemes.

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