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The field is set for the 2017 NFL draft.

Another loaded group of underclassmen is set to enter the NFL prospect pool. In total, 94 sophomores and juniors will forego their amateur status and begin the path to a pro career.

Some are ready. Others aren't. And their perceived value may be higher or lower than expected.

Evaluations take place over a matter of years. Too many become prisoners of the moment. Whoever produced the latest best bowl performance will drive the conversation even if said player isn't the top prospect.

For example, Clemson's Deshaun Watson stole the show during the College Football Playoff National Championship against a loaded Alabama defense. His performance, particularly in the second half, was special. However, pro scouts are split on the type of prospect he is.

NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah stated that he hasn't spoken with a single team that considers Watson a first-rounder. On the flip side, ESPN.com's Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen reported three top decision-makers believe Watson will now be selected somewhere at the top of the first round.

The NFL doesn't just look at production and results. Traits and how they transfer to the next level are the biggest determinants.

Watson has the potential to be a first-round pick and a high one as the process continues, but he still has questions to answer about how his game translates to the professional ranks. As such, he won't appear among the first 32 selections.

This is the balance a team must strike when it evaluates prospects. Does a player's upside weigh more than his collegiate production? Will his potential make him into something greater at the next level?



With those questions in mind, Bleacher Report considered the options and provided its latest mock draft.