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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projected First Round After Week 4

By Tyler Brooke

Sep 17, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Texas A&M Aggies lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Auburn Tigers quarterback Sean White (13) during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Texas A&M Aggies lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Auburn Tigers quarterback Sean White (13) during the first quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 2, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the first half against the Furman Paladins at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

52. . DL. Michigan State. Malik McDowell. 8. player

I really like how the Jacksonville Jaguars have been building their franchise. After adding playmakers on offense like Blake Bortles, Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, the team has switched to drafting defensive playmakers. Jalen Ramsey and Dante Fowler Jr. are two guys to build around, and they can continue to add defensive players in the upcoming draft.

Malik Jackson and Fowler are solid additiosn to the defensive line, but the Jaguars could pair them with Michigan State’s Malik McDowell in the 2017 NFL draft. Although he’s project to fit as a 3-4 defensive end in the NFL, McDowell looks like he could play as either a defensive end of tackle in a 4-3 system depending on how a franchise wants to use him.

Many compare McDowell to former Oregon prospect DeForest Buckner due to his raw talent and athleticism. If that comparison holds up, the Jaguars would love to wind up with the Michigan State prospect with the No. 8 pick.

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