2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting First Three Rounds before Scouting Combine

Oct 22, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) rushes against Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Will Johnson (12) at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) rushes against Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Will Johnson (12) at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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NCAA Football: Tennessee at Florida
NCAA Football: Tennessee at Florida /

LB. Tennessee. Jalen Reeves-Maybin. 83. player. 35.

Finding another inside linebacker would be a good move for the Titans after taking a pair of cornerbacks. The offense is in decent shape, but developing the defense is what could help Tennessee take its game to the next level.

An in-state prospect like Jalen Reeves-Maybin would be a popular one among the fans, but he’s also a solid player who could be a potential starter. He’s an instinctive linebacker who does a great job with play recognition before shooting the gap to make a play. He isn’t the biggest LB (6-foot, 230 pounds), but he does a great job of shedding blockers and making plays.

48. . RB. South Florida. Marlon Mack. 84. player

I promise I’m not having NFL teams taking prospects from nearby schools on purpose. Doug Martin’s future in Tampa Bay is cloudy, and the Buccaneers will likely turn to a “running back by committee” approach in 2017.

South Florida’s Marlon Mack could be a nice running back to keep defenses on their toes. He is an explosive running back with impressive burst and a second gear that helps him burn past defenders. Despite all that speed, Mack has some inconsistent balance and footwork, and reminds me a lot of a player like Christine Michael.

Having said that, Mack’s upside is really impressive, but he’ll need to be coached up if he’s going to reach his full potential, which some feel could be on the same level as LeSean McCoy.