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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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Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) looks over to the sidelines during the third quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) looks over to the sidelines during the third quarter of the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

. RB. LSU. Leonard Fournette. 8. player. 87

It was a tough season for the Carolina Panthers just one year removed from a Super Bowl appearance, but Cam Newton and Co. just couldn’t seem to get things figured out. The defense wasn’t quite the same and Newton didn’t want to run as much to avoid risking an injury.

Without Newton’s usual rushing production, the Panthers struggled. Johnathan Stewart just wasn’t himself and it looked like he was ready to retire by the end of the season. Because of that, Leonard Fournette might just be the best option for the Panthers in the first round.

Does skipping the bowl game affect Fournette’s stock? Doubtful. The LSU running back had a solid career in Baton Rouge and teams understand he’s just trying to protect himself after an injury-riddled junior season. They know what he’s capable of and he showcased that through three seasons.

Fournette can be scary-good and he’s likely to be the first running back chosen based on his potential. While he did prove his worth with a 1,953-yard season in 2015, not many players can have their production cut in half and still remain a top-10 pick.

Stewart struggled this season and looked worn down. With his career nearing an end, Fournette could come in right away and be a rookie sensation — if he can stay healthy.

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