2017 NFL Mock Draft: Bold Trade Puts Cleveland All In

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Jan 1, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Northwestern Wildcats running back Justin Jackson (21) runs the ball against Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Derek Barnett (9) in the second half at the 2016 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Tennessee defeated Northwestern 45-6. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

6. New York Jets

DE. Tennessee. Derek Barnett . 6. player. 30. The New York Jets will go through a number of changes in 2017. That much is obvious just from their staggering regression from last season. Among the two big names they could let walk are Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson. If that’s true, then the team must be proactive in find ways to fill that anticipated void. Otherwise they risk leaving Leonard Williams out to dry in front of what has become a very suspect secondary. <p>Thankfully this draft class is fairly rich in pass rushers. New York has really needed a presence at outside linebacker and Derek Barnett could be the guy they’ve waited for. His 32 sacks in college are proof he can not only rush the passer, but do it at a consistent level against top competition. He’s got enough size, good strength, bends well around the edge and shows the explosive quickness to finish. Put him and Williams together? Fireworks.</p>

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