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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 8

By Tyler Brooke

Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 21, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) carries the ball against California Golden Bears wide receiver Melquise Stovall (1) during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 21, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) carries the ball against California Golden Bears wide receiver Melquise Stovall (1) during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

54. . RB. Oregon. Royce Freeman. 31. player

I know I’m going to get heat for Oregon running back Royce Freeman making the first round, especially after he ran for just 15 yards on 10 carries against California.

However, when you look at the tape, Freeman has the skills to be a legitimate starting running back in the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagles desperately need a franchise running back, and they might be willing to reach for Freeman this late in the first round.

For a guy that’s 5’11” and 230 pounds, Freeman can get downfield awfully quick. He’s got solid vision and can make some great cuts to break off some big runs. There are questions as to whether or not he can be an every-down back, but the potential has been prevalent all season.

With Freeman and Carson Wentz in the backfield, the future could be bright for the Eagles in the NFC East.

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