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2017 NFL mock draft: FanSided experts pick for their teams

By George Stockburger

Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

9. player. 56. There’s no ignoring this big body talent out of the SEC. While the current trend is to get the backfield in order, the Bengals should be able to find a decent running back later. In order for the Bengals to get back to their winning ways, Andy Dalton needs a stable target. Tyler Eifert is Gronk 2.0 waiting to happen. But, unfortunately, he’s injury-prone. There’s no coincidence that Dalton’s 2015 numbers were off the charts with the production of Eifert. <p>Howard is an athletic freak. His combine performance should be enough to get the adrenaline flowing. His 40-yard dash time was an otherworldly 4.51 seconds. Compare that to Eifert’s 4.68 and at the 2013 Combine (yikes!). In other words, Howard ran as fast as Leonard Fournette. Taking Howard at the No. 9 spot may seem too high but the Bengals would be addressing an immediate need.</p> <p>Cincinnati has C.J. Uzomah and Tyler Kroft as serviceable parts but they haven’t stepped up to show what they’re truly capable of doing.</p> <p>There’s also the aspect of Eifert being in a contract year. If the Bengals don’t choose to re-sign him for the 2018 season, he can demand obscene cash from teams that are willing to dish it out. Suddenly, Howard looks like a safe and immediate impact choice.</p>. TE. Alabama. O.J. Howard

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