2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting What Could Happen in the First Round
17. Washington: Malik McDowell, Defensive Tackle
Top Needs: DT, ILB, OLB, CB
Washington churned out the ninth-worst Adjusted Defensive Passing and Rushing NEP per play last year. This was an ugly showing, so they will anchor their line with the stylings of Michigan State defensive lineman Malik McDowell.
McDowell clocks in at 6’6” and 276 pounds, but could and has carried more weight, to be movable along a 3-4 line. He has a violent attack and an aggressive first step, and he finds ways to wriggle through blocks with good flexibility and arm length. His motor is inconsistent, though, and his technique is all over. If McDowell cleans up his footwork and turns on the light in the pros, he’s a legitimate threat.
His hot-and-cold effort lead McDowell to just 34 total tackles, 7.5 stuffs, and 1.5 sacks his final year in school and an 85.7 grade (12th-best among interior linemen) Still, his upside is incredible and he’s worth the risk for a Washington team that needs to compete in a crowded division.
