Three Tigers projected in Top 12 picks of 2017 Mock Draft

by Tony Crumpton - Assoc. Editor - Thu Nov 17 12:04:40 GMT-04:00 2016

Pro Football Focus released their first 2017 NFL Mock Draft of the year, and three Clemson players are projected in the first 12 picks.

Clemson junior quarterback Deshaun Watson was projected #3 overall to the Chicago Bears.

"There’s no kind way to say it’s been a disappointing season for Watson, who has taken a step back with regard to accuracy and decision-making," PFF.com said. "There are questions about how well he handles pressure and just how special his skillset may be, but it’s a thin quarterback class at the top with no surefire options, and Watson has shown the touch, downfield accuracy and good decision-making to be successful. It’s alarming that he’s stagnated this season, but the Bears are ready to move on from Jay Cutler and taking the chance on developing Watson."

Watson threw for an ACC-record 580 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions in the 43-42 loss to Pittsburgh. For the season, he has 3077 passing yards with 27 passing touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Clemson cornerback Cordrea Tankersley was projected #6 overall to the New York Jets.

Tankersley has 37 tackles including six for loss, an interception, and eight pass deflections this season. For his career, he has 102 total tackles with 10 for loss, six interceptions, one sack, and 17 pass deflections.

Clemson star wide receiver Mike Williams was projected #12 overall to the Green Bay Packers.

"The Green Bay offense is simply not right, whether it’s QB Aaron Rodgers not trusting his receivers or simply their inability to get open, but Williams will take a step toward solving those issues," PFF said. "He has the body control to make plays on the vertical route tree, making downfield catches and adjusting well to back-shoulder fades, a Rodgers staple. He also has the frame to get inside cornerbacks on slants, making him a good fit for the Packers offense that needs to diversify its playmaking options in the pass game."

Williams has 67 catches for 956 yards and six touchdowns this season. For his career, he has 146 catches for 2322 yards and 16 scores.