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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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Nov 14, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) walks on the sidelines during the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) walks on the sidelines during the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports /

9. player. 13. . EDGE. Auburn. Carl Lawson

The San Diego Chargers are dealing with arguably more injuries to key contributors than any other team in the NFL this season. Even assuming that everyone returns and is healthy next season, the Chargers could always use some more help on defense considering some of the other teams playing in their division.

Getting to the quarterback is always a crucial part of a strong defense, so adding an edge rusher like Auburn’s Carl Lawson could be a good idea. Despite injury concerns heading into the year, Lawson has been playing at a high level this season with six sacks and 11 quarterback hurries heading into Saturday’s game against Arkansas.

Lawson is a powerful edge rusher with long limbs that help him disengage with offensive tackles. He’s not the most technically sound edge rusher, but that could change with the proper coaching.

In San Diego’s 3-4 scheme, Lawson could make an impact right away on passing downs to help generate some pressure.

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