2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 12

Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs for a large gain after a reception during the first quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

18 of 32

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) reacts after sacking the Texas A&M Aggies quarterback at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /

18. player. 50. . OLB. Alabama. Tim Williams

At the beginning of the season, everyone was assuming that the Detroit Lions would need to draft a wide receiver in 2017 with the retirement of Calvin Johnson. Instead, Marvin Jones and Golden Tate have done a great of replacing a future Hall of Famer, allowing the Lions to focus on other positions in the upcoming offseason.

Detroit should focus on defense in this draft, and an outside linebacker opposite of DeAndre Levy could be a position to fill. Alabama’s Tim Williams may still be developing, but the Crimson Tide prospect could be a great fit.

Williams is an absolute monster when it comes to rushing the passer thanks to his incredible athleticism. He’s also shown progress when it comes to stopping the run and playing back in coverage, but he’s still raw.

The upside for Williams is impressive, and learning from a guy like Levy in Detroit could turn him into something special at the next level.

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