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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Free agency provides shakeup

By Brad Weiss

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) during warm-ups before the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) during warm-ups before the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Marlon Humphrey

CB, Alabama

The New Orleans Saints traded away 23-year old wide receiver Brandin Cooks to the New England Patriots this past week, and will now pick twice in the first round in April. So far this offseason, aside from the move with Cooks, the Saints have been a bit slow to make moves. The did re-sign defensive tackle Nick Fairley, and brought in guard Larry Warford for some depth on the offensive line.

Issues in the secondary have plagued the Saints in recent seasons, and that is where they need o get better with their first of two first round picks. Marlon Humphrey is right behind Marshon Lattimore on the cornerback board, and with Sidney Jones severely injuring his leg during his pro day, he should be the second corner selected. He has played in some huge games during his collegiate career, and should bring a winning attitude to the pro level.

The NFC South has the potential to be one of the deepest divisions in football next season, as the Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Saints all could be vying for a playoff spot deep into the season. Not being able to stop the pass is going to be the Saints Acchilles Heel next season, but if they can add some quality depth via the draft, they should be a much-improved unit over last season.

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