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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Can we trust the Cleveland Browns?

By John Buhler

Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) reacts during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) reacts during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
4

Jonathan Allen

Defensive End, Alabama Crimson Tide

Though there are concerns about his durability in the NFL, Alabama Crimson Tide defensive end Jonathan Allen could be a dominating player up front for his first few years in the league. Myles Garrett may get all the NFL Draft love out of the SEC, but Allen was by far and away the most impactful defensive player in the SEC last season.

This is a guy that can thrive in either a 3-4 or a 4-3 base. Allen would play defensive end at the 5-technique in a 3-4 or kick inside to play probably some 3-technique at defensive tackle. Like with many players coming out of Alabama, Allen may be a tad also-ran after being grinded in Nick Saban’s SEC powerhouse of a program.

However, Jacksonville could have a top-10 defense next year. The Jaguars have invested heavily on that side of the ball the last few offseason under the direction of general manager David Caldwell. Winning in the trenches will be key to the Jaguars getting out of the AFC south cellar in 2017.

Jacksonville is willing to play the short game with high-upside players that may not have a long NFL career. The Jaguars took linebacker Myles Jack out of UCLA in the second round last season. Would they be willing to roll the dice on Allen at No. 4 despite his shoulder concerns? His talent is undeniable and is totally worth the long-term health risk so high up the order.

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