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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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Sep 25, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Julius Peppers (56) rushes around Detroit Lions guard Larry Warford (75) during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Julius Peppers (56) rushes around Detroit Lions guard Larry Warford (75) during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are another one of those young teams who seem to be on the brink of being a perennial playoff contender. Since selecting Jameis Winston with the first overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Bucs have been on a steady incline, and all signs point to them being in the mix for a playoff spot next season. While the offense could use another wide receiver, or even a running back, we expect them to draft the defensive side of the ball this April.

In the secondary, the Bucs did show improvement at times last season, but not nearly enough to be able to contend in a pass-happy NFC South division. The Bucs have to face Drew Brees, Cam Newton, and Matt Ryan  two times per season, meaning a weak secondary means no playoffs. Bringing in a quality safety would give them the kind of depth they need back there to at least keep the yards at a minimum next season.

Jabrill Peppers of the Michigan Wolverines is one of the more electric prospects in this draft, and he showed during his time in college that he can do a little bit of everything. Peppers won the Paul Hornung Award this past season, which is given to the most versatile player in college football. He would instantly upgrade the Bucs at the safety position, and based on his history, may be able to help them in the return game as well next season.

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