2017 NFL Mock Draft: New Regimes Create New Problems

Reuben Foster . 9. player. 56. Has Marvin Lewis ever in his entire coaching tenure had a true stud middle linebacker for his defense? The answer is no. He’s gotten by mostly with tough, try-hard types like Ray Maualuga. Never once has that team seen what a true Pro Bowl-caliber man in the middle could do in that reasonably talented front seven. Perhaps the time is just right for them to change that, having slipped in the draft rankings with #9 this coming off-season. <p>Reuben Foster may be coming from the football factory at Alabama, but that doesn’t mean he’s like every other solid linebacker they’ve produced. He has more “special” to him. Like most he’s a tough, downhill player who tackles well and stops the run. What sets him apart are his range, instincts and ability to function in space. A standout athlete with good size too. Put him next to Vontaze Burfict and behind Geno Atkins. Plays will be made. Oh yes, plays will definitely be made.</p>. ILB. Alabama