2017 NFL mock draft: Chidobe Awuzie headed to the Arizona Cardinals

One of the most daring picks in the first round of the SB Nation NFL writers’ mock draft came from Revenge of the Birds and the Arizona Cardinals. With the 13th pick they took Texas Tech quarterback Patrick Mahomes, giving them their quarterback of the future.

Seth Cox of Revenge of the Birds is back on the clock and this time he’s targeting a player on defense for the Cardinals.

Cox: The Arizona Cardinals were able to get their quarterback of the future at No. 13, now they are able to get one of the most dynamic and versatile defensive backs in the 2017 draft class. Awuzie has played on the boundary, in the slot and even lined up at safety. His versatility and ability in man coverage is something that the Cardinals covet in their defensive secondary.

He has the ability to come in early and compete at a number of positions, which will endear him to the Arizona Cardinals staff and fanbase alike. On top of all of that, he is an outstanding special teams player, who has worked on all teams and been extremely successful.

Analysis: From a system standpoint, the fit of Awuzie is perfect since he’s such a movable piece in the secondary. No defensive back in the draft this year is better at the disguised blitz than Awuzie, nor is there a tougher coverage player. With that said, I have a higher grade on cornerbacks like Sidney Jones of Washington and Teez Tabor of Florida. They’re not as versatile as Awuzie, but they provide better pure coverage skills.

Coming at 9 a.m. ET on Monday will be Stampede Blue making the pick for the Indianapolis Colts. With the pick we’ll finally be able to knock a player of the best available list.