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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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Nov 26, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) pulls in a pass against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) pulls in a pass against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

O.J. Howard. 22. player. 45. . TE. Alabama

There are a few directions that the Denver Broncos could go with their first pick of the NFL draft. However, the Broncos have missed a true impact tight end since the departure of Julius Thomas, and they could probably afford to reach every so slightly for the top TE prospect in this draft class.

Alabama’s O.J. Howard doesn’t get utilized as often as he should, but he continues to show flashes of NFL potential. He presents a serious mismatch coming in 6’6” and 242 pounds, and he’s capable of making plays in the passing game or blocking in the run game.

Howard’s biggest area where he could improve is cleaning up his route running. If he can do that to help himself create separation more frequently, he could become one of the most dangerous tight ends in the NFL, and that could help out the Broncos’ passing offense in a big way.

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