NFL
2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting What Could Happen in the First Round
What needs will each NFL team try to fill during Round 1 of the 2017 NFL Draft? We use analytics to try to figure it out.

1. Browns: Myles Garrett, Defensive End

Top Needs: QB, WR, ILB, CB

The consensus best player in the NFL Draft will certainly aid the Cleveland Browns after ranking dead last in Adjusted Defensive NEP per play in 2016. I’m penciling them in for Texas A&M edge rusher Myles Garrett, who will play defensive end in their new 4-3 defensive scheme.

Garrett blends power and speed, quickness and violence, all in one package. He’s hyper-athletic for his size, but has power in his lower half that allows him to fight through blocks and turn the corner with force. He's still learning to create pass-rush plans to maximize his ridiculous tools, but he’s the kind of player whose mere presence remakes a defense.

Garrett racked up 32 tackles, including 15 stuffs, 8.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles this past season, all while dealing with an ankle sprain. Garrett is the premier player of this class.

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