2017 NFL Mock Draft: Creative Trades Dominate QB Position

Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) and Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) and Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

28. Dallas Cowboys

DE. Wisconsin. T.J. Watt . 28. player. 123. Pretty much the entire Dallas Cowboys defense was gutted by free agency. Both their starting safeties, two starting corners and a couple of their defensive linemen all left for other teams. That means this draft is going to be entirely focused on rebuilding that unit from the ground up Given the importance of the front four and applying pressure on the quarterback, that is almost certainly where the front office will place their focus. <p>Most view T.J. Watt as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. Truth be told though he has the length and size to play end in a 4-3. He’ll have to add a bit more weight but that shouldn’t be a problem. Like his older brother he’s a strong pass rusher with deceptive athleticism and a non-stop motor from snap to whistle. As he continues to improve his arsenal of moves, he’ll get even better. His instinct is impressive as well, allowing him to sense the moment for big plays.</p>