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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Week 14

By Connor Muldowney

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
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 /
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Nov 19, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 19, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) carries the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Syracuse Orange at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports /

87. . RB. Florida State. Dalvin Cook. 8. player

Why are the Carolina Panthers struggling so much just one year removed from a Super Bowl appearance? That’s a good question. It could be because Cam Newton is playing a more timid, conservative way than he did last season or maybe it’s the fact that the loss of Josh Norman has negatively affected the secondary.

Either way, the Panthers need to start upgrading at necessary positions. One of those has to be running back. While Jonathan Stewart has done great things in his career for Carolina, it’s time for the Panthers to move on next season or at least bring in a replacement.

Stewart is averaging just 3.6 yards per carry and has been relatively ineffective between the tackles this season. He can’t seem to find the holes as easily and his yards per carry average is proof of that.

Enter, Dalvin Cook. The Seminoles’ elusive running back might just be the perfect player to complement Newton in the backfield. The dual-threat quarterback already keeps defenses on their toes, but adding a dual-threat receiver who can run and catch will surely cause problems.

Cook started the 2016 season off slowly, but has since turned things around. He has 1,620 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns to go along with 30 receptions for 426 yards and a score with one game left. Imagine him in that offense. That’s a scary thought.

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