NFL Draft 2017: Top 5 prospects who could free fall

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) celebrates during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) celebrates during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) gestures to the sidelines during the first 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) gestures to the sidelines during the first half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

Malik McDowell is a freak athlete who has yet to learn how to play the game of football at a high level. His athleticism and size make him a perfect specimen for a 3-technique position. Unfortunately, his lack of craftsmanship at the 3-technique position will push him down the board. His length, speed and athleticism may make him a better defensive end. If the NFL projects him as a defensive end, he will wait even longer.

For teams, the question for McDowell is maturity. Before signing with Michigan State, his mother made a public display of her distaste of the decision. Her reasons against the Spartans revolved around her perception of Malik’s lack of maturity. She would have preferred he go to a school that would challenge him and make him earn playing time. Right or wrong, her message is one NFL teams will ask about.

Malik did very little to assuage concerns over his maturity at the Combine. In fact, the opposite may have occurred. Teams reportedly came away from the combine concerned about his ability to take coaching, work ethic and whether he can be a self-starter.

McDowell has all the athleticism and talent to be an All-Pro defensive linemen. Yet, he continues to be his own worst enemy. It will take a team with a strong coaching staff with a plan in place to help him mature. That said, Malik McDowell is a huge prospect to bust in the NFL. Look for teams to avoid him for as long as possible. In this draft class, that may be a while.

Related Story: NFL Draft 2017: Top 10 prospects from ACC

Early in the draft process, McDowell was projected to go in the mid to late first round. Now he is going AWOL in first round mock drafts. Come draft night, McDowell may just want to stay home.