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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Defense rules the day

By Brad Weiss

Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
11

Jonathan Allen

DL, Alabama

The New Orleans Saints will have the No. 11 pick in the first round, and it looks like it is going to stay that way, as their trade with the New England Patriots for Malcolm Butler appears to be dead in the water. Heading into 2017, the Saints will once again be one of the better offensive teams in the league, even with the loss of Brandin Cooks to the Pats. With their first of two first round picks, look for the Saints to bolster their defense, with Jonathan Allen being a perfect fit up front.

There has been plenty of talk surrounding Allen this draft season, as some teams are afraid his shoulder won’t hold up in the NFL. That is nonsense, and it is thinking like that that may land him with the Saints at No. 11. He is by far one of the most talented players in this draft, and at one point, some experts had him being the first overall pick.

The bottom line is the NFC South is going to be loaded this season, boasting some of the best offensive teams in the league. The Saints need to be able to get after the likes of Matt Ryan, Cam Newton, and Jameis Winston, making a pass-rusher a must at No. 11. Allen’s shoulders will be fine, and five years from now, many teams will be upset that they passes on such a wonderful defensive lineman talent.

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