2017 NFL Mock Draft: Top Quarterbacks Start Their Rise

Nov 29, 2014; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws a pass during the second half against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Kenan Memorial Stadium. The Wolfpack won 35-7. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2014; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Mitch Trubisky (10) throws a pass during the second half against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Kenan Memorial Stadium. The Wolfpack won 35-7. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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2017 NFL Draft Zach Cunningham
Nov 19, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores inside linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) is congratulated by teammates after a fumble recovery during the second half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vanderbilt Stadium. Vanderbilt won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

22. Houston Texans

Vanderbilt. Zach Cunningham . 22. player. 10. Teams have had a difficult time throwing the ball against the Houston Texans, and this is without J.J. Watt as part of their pass rush. On the flip side, it’s been a sight easier running it. Houston ranks an average 13th in run defense, allowing 99.5 yards per game on the ground. A big reason for this has been the inconsistent play they’ve gotten at inside linebacker. Brian Cushing has clearly lost a step due to mounting injuries and Benardrick McKinney is ascending but still up and down. <p>Zach Cunningham has emerged as one of the top ILBs in college football. The fact he did it with an average program like Vanderbilt showcases just how good he is. Like any good linebacker he’s tough and knows how to tackle. What sets him apart from others is his sideline to sideline range and instinct for diagnosing what the offense will do before the snap. Anticipation is a huge part of success at the NFL level. </p>. ILB