From Last Word On Pro Football, by Dillon Oakley
Last Word On Pro Football will be selecting a 2017 NFC West All-Division team which will be assembled by picking the best players in the division at their positions. The Seahawks, Rams, Cardinals, and 49ers have more than enough talent to field one of the best teams in the NFL. Lets take a look at how the NFC West All-Division Team would look.
2017 NFC West All-Division Team: The Offense
Quarterback: Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks
Wilson is far and away the best quarterback in this division. He put up sub par numbers in 2016, but most of his struggles were due to his offensive line, which was one of the worst units in the NFL. Given time, Wilson can be a weapon, torching defenses with his arm and legs. Wilson has shown to be clutch, and a competent leader on the field.
Running Back: David Johnson, Arizona Cardinals
There is no other way to word it: David Johnson was a beast in 2016. He rushed for 1,239 yards, and added 879 yards on 80 receptions and found the end zone a combined 20 times over 16 games. Johnson is what fantasy football dreams are made of, and is a lock as the best running back in the NFC West.
Wide Receiver: Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals
Fitzgerald has been one of the best receivers in the NFL since being drafted in 2004. It seems as though age has not caught up to Fitzgerald, as he caught 107 passes for 1,023 yards and six touchdowns in 2016. Not bad for a guy who was mulling retirement last year.
Wide Receiver: Doug Baldwin, Seattle Seahawks
Baldwin had a breakout year in 2016, posting career bests in catches (94), yards (1,128), and added seven touchdowns as the team’s number one target on offense.
Slot Receiver: Tyler Lockett, Seattle Seahawks
Lockett earned himself a spot on the All-Division team by being one of the most dangerous slot receivers in the NFL. Lockett displays dazzling speed, and provides his quarterback with a legitimate deep threat. in 2016, Lockett put up sub par numbers, but makes the team due to his talent.
Tight End: Jimmy Graham, Seattle Seahawks
Graham was a bit underwhelming in his first season as a Seattle Seahawk. However, Graham found success in 2016. Graham caught 65 passes for 923 yards and six touchdowns. The former college basketball player is easily the best tight end in the NFC West due to his size and athleticism.
Right Tackle: Joe Staley, San Francisco 49ers
Although Staley is traditionally a left tackle, it’s hard to leave them off this list. Staley brings grit and tenacity into an offensive line that is second to none. Staley has also put up impressive numbers in his career ranking as one of the best tackles in the game.
Right Guard: Rodger Saffold, Los Angeles Rams
Ever since being drafted by the then St Louis Rams in 2010, Saffold has been one of the most consistent guards in the NFL. Saffold has started 80 out of 83 games in his career and has been one of the bright spots on an otherwise poor offensive line.
Center: Justin Britt, Seattle Seahawks
Britt makes the list as the starting center due to the fact he was one of the anchors on a terrible offensive line in 2016. Britt posted a 79.9 grade, which ranked as the number 12 center in the NFL per Pro Football Focus.
Left Guard: Mike Iupati, Arizona Cardinals
lupati is a former first round pick and anchored the 49ers line when they reached the Super Bowl in 2012. lupati has been up and down since signing with the Cardinals, but still ranked as one of the best run blockers in the NFL.
Left Tackle: Andrew Whitworth, Los Angeles Rams
Whitworth has not played a down as a member of the NFC West yet, but figures to be the best tackle in the division. Whitworth had a great career in Cincinnati and will be looking to make the Bengals feel foolish for not signing him. Whitworth was the number two ranked tackle in the NFL last year per Pro Football Focus. The Rams got an massive upgrade on their offensive line.
Be sure to check out the NFC West All-Division Team on defense and special teams.
