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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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Sep 17, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) celebrates after a sack against the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Charles Harris (91) celebrates after a sack against the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /
12

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

The Cleveland Browns traded for Brock Osweiler this past week, but nobody is really under the impression that he is going to be the long-term answer at the position. In fact, Osweiler could be dealt before the month is out, as the Browns jockey for more picks in the next two NFL drafts. The position is influx, and with Josh McCown likely out the door as well, they are going to need to draft a quarterback during the draft in April.

While nobody grades Deshaun Watson as a first-round talent, you cannot glance over the kind of career he had with the Clemson Tigers. Not only did Watson lead the Tigers to two National Championship Games, but he also won the second one, as the Tigers upset the Alabama Crimson Tide. He showed the kind of poise needed to be a good player at the next level, and the Browns may very well select him with the No. 12 overall pick.

Watson had an excellent NFL Scouting Combine, further advancing his stock in April’s draft. The Browns have done a nice job getting better on the offensive line this offseason, and if they actually hang onto this pick, Watson would be a nice grab at No. 12. The Browns have had a losing culture for longer than one can remember, so bringing in an absolute winner to play quarterback could be the way they go.

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