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

By Connor Muldowney

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 /
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Sep 17, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets running back Dedrick Mills (26) scores a rushing touchdown against Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) in the third quarter of their game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Yellow Jackets won 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets running back Dedrick Mills (26) scores a rushing touchdown against Vanderbilt Commodores linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) in the third quarter of their game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Yellow Jackets won 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

LB. Vanderbilt. Zach Cunningham. 30. player. 28.

Playing for Vanderbilt might not get a draft prospect much attention, but the Commodores’ Zach Cunningham is a rising star. Imagine a defense that featured him along with Khalil Mack — that’s a scary sight for offenses. The Raiders are one of the most impressive, young teams in the NFL and they could get even better with Cunningham.

The Raiders could use a middle linebacker and Cunningham could be plugged into that spot. He has better than average speed at the position and his play recognition is elite. He has the ability to cover and that might be his most impressive trait.

In coverage, he is fast enough that he almost looks like a defensive back, but against the run, he’s aggressive enough that he makes the big play.

The biggest knock against Cunningham after his junior season in 2015 was that he wasn’t the best at finishing tackles. While he could fight off blocks and make a play, he would follow that up with a whiff on an easy takedown attempt. He has improved that this season by improving on his tackle numbers.

In fact, he has 94 total tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss this season. He could be the steal of the first round.

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