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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 13

By Tyler Brooke

Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) runs the ball during the first half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) runs the ball during the first half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the second half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) stands on the field between plays during the second half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

Michigan State. Malik McDowell. 10. player. 15. . DL

Defense has to be a priority for the New Orleans Saints in the upcoming draft. The team is in the conversation as the worst defense in the entire NFL, so really any help that they can get in the draft will be vital.

Michigan State’s Malik McDowell is the best defensive prospect available with the No. 10 overall pick. McDowell has already drawn plenty of comparisons to former Oregon Ducks prospect DeForest Buckner due to his 6’6”, 276-pound frame.

McDowell uses his long arms and strength to get past blocker and make plays in the backfield, whether that’s as a defensive end or defensive tackle. The biggest problem McDowell faces is keeping his pad level consistently low, but the physical tools are there for him to be a versatile defensive lineman who can make plenty of plays.

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