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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after CFP Semifinals

By Connor Muldowney

Dec 31, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) runs the ball for a touchdown against Ohio State during the third quarter during the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Kadlubowski/The Arizona Republic via USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) runs the ball for a touchdown against Ohio State during the third quarter during the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Kadlubowski/The Arizona Republic via USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 30, 2016; Nashville , TN, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Ryker Fyfe (17) throws the ball as Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) defends during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2016; Nashville , TN, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Ryker Fyfe (17) throws the ball as Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) defends during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

Washington just missed out on the playoffs thanks to a loss to the New York Giants on Sunday night and that will bring the Redskins back to the drawing board. There are some people who don’t believe Kirk Cousins deserves a huge contract because of his inability to lead this team to the postseason, but he can’t play defense, too.

The offense has struggled at times, but that’s not the issue with Washington. The defense has been a disappointment for a good chunk of the season and that starts with a guy like Josh Norman failing to live up to expectations.

Still, Washington has the pieces in place to be successful in the future, but the defense needs some major improvements. With the Redskins going receiver (Josh Doctson) in the first round last year, expect them to focus on the other side of the ball and if it’s not a defensive back, it’ll likely be a lineman.

A few weeks ago, I would have been shocked to see Derek Barnett fall to No. 20 overall (or potentially No. 16 where the Redskins will likely pick), but crazier things have happened with teams drafting on needs instead of best available.

Some people actually believe he’s a better edge rusher than Myles Garrett, but that remains to be seen. Barnett is strong, powerful and he has yet to reach his full potential. Washington could use a leader like him on defense.

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