2017 NFL Mock Draft: Pass Rushers Fly Off Early and Often

Michigan State. Malik McDowell . 6. player. 56. Somewhere along the way the Cincinnati Bengals lost their mojo on defense. It’s hard to figure out when but in a 4-3 scheme it often starts up front. Geno Atkins is still a beat but beyond him it’s pretty much a long line of “meh” lately. The edge rushers aren’t getting home and the team hasn’t found an adequate understudy for aging nose tackle Domata Peko. Often the best way to invigorate a front four is by adding another dynamic talent. <p>Malik McDowell is almost certain to declare for 2017 after a rough year for a bad Michigan State team. Scouts love his combination of size, length and quickness. He’s one of those rare talents that can move inside or outside depending on situation. He can shoot gaps to create pressure in the backfield and has enough strength to handle the run. Put him next to Atkins either in the middle or on the edge and that’s a combination that could do damage.</p>. DT