2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Week 11

Nov 12, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
22 of 32
Next
Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack running back Don Jackson (6) is tackled by Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) after a reception during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeated the Wolf Pack 44-27. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack running back Don Jackson (6) is tackled by Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) after a reception during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeated the Wolf Pack 44-27. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

22. player. 45. . S. Texas A&M. Justin Evans

Yet another defensive player from Texas A&M going in the first round of the NFL draft. Just a couple of years ago, the Aggies were considered one of the worst defenses in the country, but the talent is improving in College Station.

It’s always interesting to see what NFL scouts and executives have to say about draft prospects. According to NFL.com, one executive believes that the Texas A&M safety could be a top-20 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. The anonymous source said that Evans “jumps off the tape” and covers a lot of ground and is also a ferocious hitter.

The second-year starter for Texas A&M has risen up draft boards over the past couple of seasons and he has improved his stock this season by a large amount. He has recorded 66 total tackles, five tackles for loss, six pass deflections and four interceptions. He’s going to have an even better year than his breakout campaign in 2015 and should be a top pick.

I don’t see Evans going in the top 20, but it’s definitely possible with the dire need for defensive backs around the league. The Broncos are easily the best passing defense in the NFL, but why not add some depth in the secondary? The position of safety might need an upgrade soon as getting younger will be a must.

Evans has been one of the top defenders in the SEC and it’s impressive to see a safety record five tackles for loss, showing that he plays more on the aggressive side. Denver could use him in a variety of ways.