Mock Draft Round Up 23

CBS Jordan Dahani (3. DE Chase Young:  The Lions could take a few players here that could make an immediate impact on their defense, but common sense says that Young is the best player in the draft.) (4-4-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-patriots-land-franchise-quarterback-redskins-add-corner-and-tackle-after-trade-down/

Draftwire (3. Detroit Lions - CB Jeff Okudah:  I’m betting the Lions would love to move down from this spot, and they’re sure to have plenty of willing trade partners with some talented QB prospects on the board. If not, though, expect them to replace the recently traded Darius Slay with Okuda, this year’s best corner prospect by far.  35. DT Ross Blacklock.  66. LB Josh Uche.  85.  WR Donovan Peoples-Jones.) (4-4-20):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/04/nfl-mock-draft-2020-3-rounds-comp-picks-tua-tagovailoa-dolphins-justin-herbert/

CBS Josh Edwards (5.  CB Jeff Okudah:  The Lions move down a few spots, pick up an additional second round pick and still land their replacement for Darius Slay.  35. DT Ross Blacklock:   The Lions added their cornerback in the first round and swing back around to get a solid defensive tackle in the second round.  39. RB D'Andre Swift:  Detroit lands the draft's top running back in the second round. He will provide them balance in the run and pass game.) (4-3-20):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-four-first-round-trades-jaguars-take-another-quarterback/

CBS Will Brinson (3. DE Chase Young:  Easy choice here for Detroit with Young sitting right there for the taking.) (4-2-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-redskins-take-tua-second-overall-henry-ruggs-first-receiver-off-the-board/

CBS Sean Wagner-McGough (3.  DE Chase Young:  The Lions have a terrible defense (28th by DVOA, to be specific). The good news is that the Redskins' decision to take Tua frees up the best defensive player in the draft for the Lions. This is a no-brainer, unless someone offers a haul to move up for Young.  31. QB Jacob Eason:  This is still Matthew Stafford's team. But Stafford's cap hit climbs to $33 million in 2021. And his timeline probably doesn't fit the Lions' window. Stafford can start in 2020 while Eason waits his turn. There's a chance Eason would be available at No. 35, but the Lions don't risk another team taking him ahead of them. Meanwhile, the 49ers already got their WR at No. 13. Now, they get a couple extra picks to slide back only a few spots.) (4-2-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-five-qbs-go-in-the-first-round-after-the-lions-trade-up-for-jacob-eason-at-no-31/

NFL.com Charles Davis (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Not only does Okudah fit a screaming need for the Lions with Darius Slay now in Philadelphia, but he is also the best CB in this draft. The Lions might also consider using this pick on DT Derrick Brown from Auburn.) (4-2-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108117/article/charles-davis-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-patriots-pick-jordan-love

SI Mock Draft (5.  CB Jeff Okudah:  Signing Desmond Trufant to a two-year deal made it easier for the Lions to trade Darius Slay, but ultimately those two moves are a net downgrade for the secondary. Before those moves, the team was in need of an upgrade opposite their top cornerback. A complete corner, Okudah possesses an ideal blend of size, length, athleticism and competitiveness to develop into a shutdown corner for the Lions early in his career.  35.  DT Ross Blacklock.  67.  OT Robert Hunt.  85. DE Bradlee Anae) (4-2-20):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/02/nfl-mock-draft-trades-tua-tagovailoa-andrew-thomas-henry-ruggs

Freep Dave Birkett Mock Draft (3. CB Jeff Okudah – Four for four when it comes to Okudah and the Lions in my mock drafts. Young would be a no-brainer if he’s there. Derrick Brown and Isaiah Simmons would be fine choices. But Okudah is the best blend of positional value, need and fit.) (4-2-20):  https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/02/2020-nfl-mock-detroit-lions-first-two-picks/5107610002/

MLive Ben Raven (6. Detroit Lions (via trade with Los Angeles Chargers) -- OSU CB Jeff Okudah:  Okudah was dominant at Ohio State and is the top cornerback prospect in this draft and recent memory.  In a first-round pick swap with the Chargers, the Lions should be able to add a couple of mid-round picks in 2020 and 2021. Adding another second-round pick near the top of the order would be a massive win for a team already in possession of four of the first 85 selections. There are glaring needs on the interior of the offensive line, and not to mention the chance to cash in on a highly-touted wide receiver class. Scooping up the top cornerback while adding depth would be a vital step in the right direction.  Okudah makes too much sense. The Lions allowed the most passing yards in the NFL last season, and then parted ways with former All-Pro corner Darius Slay. Okudah fits the system as a lanky, athletic corner than can stuff receivers up in the press and stick with them until the whistle blows.  The Ohio State star didn’t allow a single catch of more than 12 yards on 184 snaps in press coverage last season. He slides in nicely next to recent-addition Desmond Trufant, slot corner Justin Coleman and the developing Amani Oruwariye. It might get repetitive seeing his name tied to the Lions in the majority of mocks at this point, but Okudah is the right pick at the right place to the right team.) (4-2-20):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/ben-ravens-2020-nfl-mock-draft-30-lions-trade-back-land-ohio-state-star-jeff-okudah.html

97.1 the Ticket Stoney (6. DerrickBrown:  The Lions send the third overall pick to the Chargers for picks No. 6, 37, 71 and 112. It's a solid haul for Detroit, who now have six of the first 85 picks, but the move might cost them a player they like.  With Okudah off the board, Detroit takes Auburn DT Derrick Brown at No. 6. The 2019 SEC Defensive Player of the Year will give the Lions a force on the interior of the D-line, where the team has already made extensive changes this offseason.) (4-2-20):  https://971theticket.radio.com/articles/lions-trade-down-in-stoneys-2020-nfl-mock-draft-10

NFL.com Schrager (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  The Lions could trade back here, but I won't be shocked if they stay put and select Okudah. A polished product from a big-time program that's been a defensive back factory over the past few years, Okudah wowed teams in interviews at the NFL Scouting Combine. He's an NFL starter at CB from Day 1 -- and could be a No. 1 corner by midseason. Add in the departure of Darius Slay, and this pick makes sense.) (4-1-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107996/article/peter-schrager-nfl-mock-draft-10-dolphins-take-qb-wr-rb

Sporting News (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  The Lions moved Darius Slay in a trade with the Eagles and signed Desmond Trufant to replace him, but they need to address the other outside corner spot. Okudah, an elite ball hawk at 6-1, 205 pounds, has the build to handle receivers of all sizes. He is fluid and quick enough with great recovery skills in coverage to develop into a shutdown type with his strengths showing up in press man.  35. DE Yetur Gross-Matos:  The Lions need more defensive line punch and tapping into the other Lions to better complement Trey Flowers at end is a good value pick. Gross-Matos (6-5, 266 pounds) is a well-built, explosive and versatile defender made to be disruptive in a hybrid scheme such as Matt Patricia's.) (4-1-20):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-2-round-cowboys-49ers-packers-eagles/1ui2h42ba16kb1sf5f79ppc6t5

CBS Chris Trapasso (6. LB Isaiah Simmons:  Matt Patricia gets his movable chess piece for a defense in dire need of major playmakers in the back seven.  35. S Grant Delpit:  Delpit is a towering safety with ability in coverage to run with tight ends down the field and make plays.) (4-1-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-eagles-trade-up-for-jerry-jeudy-vikings-stop-derrick-browns-slide/

MLive Kyle Meinke (3. Ohio State DE Chase Young: Everyone has Jeff Okudah going to Detroit, and I get it. He’s the big, physical corner the Lions have been trying to find for years. Now they have to replace Darius Slay, and Desmond Trufant is no Darius Slay. Who knows if Okudah is, but he’s the best cornerback prospect in the country. Experts say he’s the best cornerback prospect in years. And he just so happens to have played a lot of press man too, which is Detroit’s preferred coverage scheme. If Chase Young isn’t there, Okudah’s the pick. But I still think there are too many teams that need a quarterback too badly for QBs not to go 1-2, and that sets up Detroit to add the best overall player in the draft.) (4-1-20):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/kyle-meinkes-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-rush-on-qbs-will-push-chase-young-to-lions.html

Draft Tek (5. CB Jeff Okudah:  For the past few weeks, we have slotted Clemson's do-it-all freak linebacker Isaiah Simmons to Detroit here at Pick #3, mostly due to the defense's lack of depth, which is something that Simmons would have provided with his versatility. However, after the additions of linebackers Elijah Lee and ex-Kansas City Chief Reggie Ragland, Linebacker seems not necessarily of the utmost importance any longer. The position, and Simmons, could still be at play for Detroit, but not nearly as likely at #3. NThis week, we go back on the Jeffrey Okudah bandwagon, as now a potential pairing of Trufant, Okudah, and Coleman looks so much better now with some linebacker depth. The Lions could still be in the trade market to move down and amass even more draft capital, which would be the smartest move for the organization. They could still conceivably draft Okudah lower in the order. A team who REALLY wants Tua would be the best trading partner for Detroit to capitalize on a team's "Tuaappetite". - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst  35. OG Shane Lemieux  67.  DE Curtis Weaver.  85. LB Josh Uche   109. DT Carlos Davis. 149. LB Shaquille Quarterman. 166.  WR Isaiah Hodgins. 182. QB Cole McDonald) (3-31-20):   https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft-Round-1.asp

NFL.com MJD (3. DT Derrick Brown:  PROJECTED TRADE WITH GIANTS. He's super disruptive, thanks to his strength, quick hands and explosiveness off the line. The Lions' interior immediately improves.) (3-31-20):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107890/article/maurice-jonesdrew-nfl-mock-draft-20-justin-herbert-at-no-1

CBS Tom Fornelli (6. CB Jeff Okudah:  If Matt Patricia is truly a student of Bill Belichick, he'll know that Belichick prefers to build his defense from the back end these days. So he gets the best corner in the draft and picks extra assets while doing so. Truly Belichickian.) (3-31-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-redskins-take-tua-chase-young-falls-to-giants-chargers-trade-up-for-herbert/

CBS Dan Schneider (5. CB Jeff Okudah:  Detroit was probably hoping Simmons fell to them (perfect piece for the Patricia defensive system), but they're happy with this consolation prize. I'm not supporting this decision, but everything the Lions have done this offseason shows they're looking to win games in the short term even if it compromises the long-term health of the roster. Okudah fills an immediate need left by trading CB Darius Slay.) (3-31-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-dolphins-trade-up-for-tua-tagovailoa-patrick-queen-lands-in-the-top-10/

PFF Steve Palazzolo Mock Draft (3.  CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE:  There’s an obvious debate between Okudah and his teammate, Chase Young, but the Lions’ man-coverage attack desperately needs more options on the back end, and Okudah’s production and measurables make him the top cornerback on the PFF draft board. Okudah has excellent movement size, speed and movement skills — all excellent fits for what the Lions need opposite new cornerback Desmond Trufant on the outside.) (3-31-20):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-steve-palazzolo-2020-nfl-mock-draft-giants-land-chase-young-dolphins-trade-tua-tagovailoa

Walterfootball (6.  Detroit Lions - CB Jeff Okudah:  "As of this very moment, the Lions need a talented cornerback to play across from Darius Slay." I wrote this prior to free agency, and now the Lions need a talented cornerback to play across from Desmond Trufant, as Trufant was signed prior to Slay being traded to the Eagles.  Jeff Okudah is a big, athletic, speedy cornerback with immense upside. He's a bit stiff, but that's commonplace from tall cornerbacks.  35. LB Zach Baun:  The Lions need an edge rusher to go along with Trey Flowers, as they'll need to improve their ability to get to Aaron Rodgers to overtake the Packers.  Zack Baun has size limitations (6-3, 238), but he was very productive at Wisconsin.  37.  RB JK Dobbins:  This is one of the picks the Lions received from the Chargers in my proposed trade in the first round.  Kerryon Johnson hasn't been able to stay healthy, so I expect Detroit to target a running back in the opening half of the 2020 NFL Draft.  J.K. Dobbins entered 2017 as a backup, but overtook Mike Weber and had a terrific freshman campaign, showing off his great, explosive running ability.  67. QB Jacob Eason: Matthew Stafford has some serious injury risk issues, so the Lions would be wise to select a potential successor in case Stafford pulls an Andrew Luck and retires unexpectedly.  85. DT Marlon Davidson:  The Lions lost some defensive linemen to free agency, so perhaps they'll use the pick they acquired from the Eagles on a replacement.  109. DE Josh Uche:  The Lions lost Devon Kennard this offseason, so they could select two edge rushers this April.  Josh Uche is an undersized player, but he's fast and talented.  149. CB Shyheim Carter:  The Lions could address their secondary as early as No. 3 overall with Jeff Okudah. If they trade Darius Slay, they'll need two new corners.  172.  LB Evan Weaver:  The Lions could strengthen their linebacking corps as early as No. 3 overall with Isaiah Simmons.  182.  LB Shaquille Quarterman:  The Lions need as much help in the middle of their defense as possible.) (3-31-20):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2020.php

ESPN's McShay Mock Draft (3. CB Jeff Okudah.  35. C Cesar Ruiz) (3-31-20):   https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/03/espns-todd-mcshay-sticks-with-jeff-okudah-finds-ol-help-for-lions-in-2-round-mock-draft.html

O'hara's Mock Draft 4.0 (3. CB Jeff Okudah, Ohio State) (3-31-20):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-mock-3-4-0-how-free-agency-impacts-lions-pick-okudah-tagovailoa

CBS Ryan Wilson (5.  LB Isaiah Simmons:  Isaiah Simmons told us at the combine that his versatility is what makes him so special and it's hard to argue. He patterns his game after Tyrann Mathieu and Von Miller though he also reminds us of Derwin James. Whatever player comp you use, the Lions' defense is vastly improved with him on it, and they get an extra pick in the process.  35. S Xavier McKinney:  McKinney is a first-round talent who slips to Detroit here.  39. RB Jonathan Taylor:   Detroit uses the extra pick here to get Matthew Stafford some help in the form of one of the nation's best running backs.  67.  CB Cameron Dantzler:  Darius Slay is gone and Dantzler was impressive last season for Mississippi State. His slow 40 time at the combine sees him fall to Detroit in Round 3.  85.  DT Jordan Elliott:  Matt Patricia is a former defensive coordinator who has yet to get the most out of Detroit's D.) (3-30-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/three-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-dolphins-patriots-bucs-browns-trade-up-to-address-key-needs/

NFL.com Freuland Analytic Mock (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Trading away Darius Slay leaves Detroit with a massive question mark at corner, and Okudah is my model's top-rated prospect at the position. While the No. 3 overall pick could be a prime trade target for a team looking for a quarterback -- especially now that the Giants, who pick fourth overall, added cornerback James Bradberry in free agency, which could allow Detroit a better chance to trade down a few picks and still land Okudah -- trades aren't allowed in this mock, so Okudah's fit offers a high ROI.) (3-30-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107835/article/cynthia-frelund-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-analyticsbased-picks

Walterfootball Charlie (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  The Lions have the most interesting pick in the first round because of the variety of directions they could go. Since Darius Slay was traded, as expected, Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah would make sense for Detroit, but he is coming off a rough combine performance. Meanwhile, A'Shawn Robinson and Mike Daniels are entering free agency and Snacks Harrison was cut, so Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown also makes a lot of sense. It will be fascinating to see which problem Detroit decides to address.  Okudah has a great skill set with upside to develop. The 6-foot-1, 205-pounder is big, athletic, agile and can run. He is superb at blanketing receivers and preventing separation. Okudah has the entire physical skill set NFL teams hope to find in a No. 1 cornerback, and he put it all together with a dominant 2019 season. The junior totaled 35 tackles with nine passes broken up and three interceptions on the year. Okudah saw some brief action as a freshman, recording 17 tackles and a breakup before playing more as a sophomore. In 2018, he totaled 32 tackles with eight breakups. Okudah's rough combine performance could cause a slight slide, but after his pro day and other workouts, he could rise back up boards. 35. QB Jordan Love:  The Lions have extra picks on Day 2 to address needs and could use one on an understudy to Mathew Stafford. Here's a big-armed quarterback who would provide continuity for the offense.  In 2019, Love completed 62 percent of his passes for 3,402 yards with 20 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He had some buzz about being a pro prospect coming off his 2018 season, when he completed 64 percent of his passes for 3,567 yards with 32 touchdowns and six interceptions.  As a pro prospect, Love has some good tools to work with. He has a strong arm and can fire some lasers downfield and to the sideline. He also shows the ability to put air under the ball and throw touch passes. Lofting in passes between defenders and throwing receivers open can be tough for strong-armed quarterbacks as they can become too reliant on fast balls. Love does not have that issue. His pocket presence is developed, and he has some mobility to move around as well.  However, Love still has a lot to work on, with his field vision being painfully bad. He consistently locks his eyes on his primary read and does not move them away. He stares down targets and does not look off defenders. Love must start reading the field, working through his progressions, and making better decisions. Some team evaluators also said that his accuracy and turnovers were problems. Team sources felt that Love should have returned for his senior year to improve before going to the NFL, but he declared for the 2020 NFL Draft. One team source said they had a fourth-/fifth-round grade on Love. Two other teams said they graded him as a third/fourth-rounder, but Love only needs one team to fall in love and take him in the early rounds and make it financially worth it to come out even though it was a move that increases his potential of being a bust.  67.  DE Josh Uche:  The Lions could use more edge-rush talent across from Trey Flowers.  Uche had 35 tackles with 8.5 sacks, two passes batted and two forced fumbles in 2019. The 6-foot-1, 241-pounder was a fast and dangerous edge rusher over the past two seasons, but he is very undersized for the NFL. As a pro, he would fit best as a designated pass-rusher, and playing in a 3-4 scheme would probably be the best spot for him. Uche had only 15 tackles during the 2018 season, but seven of those were sacks as he was a dangerous pass-rusher for the Wolverines.  85. DT Neville Gallimore:  The Lions need more young talent on the inside of their line.  Gallimore recorded 30 tackles, four sacks and two forced fumbles in 2019. Team sources say Gallimore is an athletic tackle with some twitch. In 2018, he had 50 tackles with 5.5 tackles for a loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one pass batted. Gallimore (6-2, 304) is a penetrating disruptor who would fit best in a 4-3 as a three-technique who could also play some nose tackle. Some evaluators have compared Gallimore to former Buccaneer Booger McFarland or current Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. They say teams would want more pass-rush ability out of Gallimore to become an every-down starter in the NFL, so they see him more as a second-day prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. 109. LB  Akeem Davis-Gaither:  The Lions could use more linebacker depth and competition.) (3-30-20):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2020charlie.php

Rotoworld Hayden Winks (5. Lions (moved down to MIA) - Jeffrey Okudah, CB1:  With Detroit moving on from Darius Slay, this fit is as obvious as it gets. Okudah has been my favorite defensive player to watch film on this draft szn, and he solidified his top-10 status with 99th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism. Okudah ended up at the No. 6 overall prospect in my Analytics Top 300 Big Board.   Prop Bet Verdict: “Okudah over 4.5 overall pick” at -148 odds) (3-30-20):  https://www.rotoworld.com/article/mock-draft/2020-nfl-mock-draft-and-nfl-draft-prop-bets

PFF Analytics Mock (3. DETROIT LIONS —CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE
EE: This doesn’t change from the first mock, with Darius Slay out (but Desmond Trufant in). Okudah is a great prospect as a press-man corner, which should allow the Lions to rush more players than they did in 2019.) (3-30-20):  https://www.pff.com/news/the-pff-analytics-mock-draft-2-0

Touchdown Wire Mark Schofield (3. DE Chase Young:  If the board unfolds this way, Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn will have a fascinating decision to make. They traded away cornerback Darius Slay during free agency, so drafting cornerback Jeff Okudah would be an enticing option. Sure, the Lions added Desmond Trufant in free agency, but a cornerback with experience in both man and combination coverage schemes who can start on Week 1 is a very safe play.  So, too, is Chase Young. A season ago, the Detroit Lions added Trey Flowers in free agency, and while Flowers nearly matched his sack total from 2018, one man does not make a pass rush on his own. Pairing Flowers with Young on the other side of the field gives Detroit a pair of pass rushers who truly can collapse pockets off the edges. When you factor in new acquisition Jamie Collins, and what he can do as a blitzer attacking the A-gaps, now you might just have a pass rush.) (3-30-20):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/30/touchdown-wires-mock-draft-4-0-anticipating-trades-and-surprises/2/

USA Today Nate Davis (6. Detroit Lions – Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn: [TRADE with Chargers]  Despite descending three spots, Detroit still gets a premium player. And though GM Bob Quinn shored up his linebacker corps (Jamie Collins, Reggie Ragland) in free agency and offset the trade of CB Darius Slay by signing Desmond Trufant, the Lions remain perilously thin up front – even with the arrival of massive Danny Shelton. Brown can play all three downs, able to tie up blocks, rush the passer and destroy running lanes.) (3-30-20):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/03/30/nfl-mock-draft-2020-trades-tua-tagovailoa-first-round/2918471001/

Detroit News Justin Rogers (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Whether it’s at this spot or a few down the board after a trade, Okudah has come into focus as Detroit’s best bet. The film, production and testing metrics are similar to what we saw when Jalen Ramsey was entering the league, and top Ohio State corners Denzel Ward and Marshon Lattimore have adjusted quickly to the next level in recent years. Previous pick: Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn) (3-27-20):   https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/03/27/justin-rogers-2020-nfl-mock-draft-2-0/2899710001/

NFL.com Chad Reuter (3.  DE Chase Young:  TheI wonder how many trade calls the Lions have already taken for this pick? Young's talent is just too much to pass by unless there's a trade offer that Detroit absolutely cannot ignore.  35. DT Neville Gallimore.  67. CB Jeff Gladney.  85. RB Zach Moss.  109. G Netane Muti) (3-26-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107680/article/fourround-2020-nfl-mock-draft-six-trades-shake-up-round-1

CBS Pete Prisco (3. DT Derrick Brown:  They could go for corner Jeff Okudah here in this spot, but I think they need a power player up front to go with Danny Shelton. Brown will be a star.) (3-26-19):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-jaguars-select-jordan-love-cowboys-take-replacement-for-travis-frederick/

PFF "What they think will happen" Mock Draft (5. DETROIT LIONS (VIA MIAMI DOLPHINS) — CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE:  Detroit still gets its guy after trading down. The Lions still have a massive hole opposite newly acquired Desmond Trufant left by Darius Slay that Okudah can fill. On 31 targets in man coverage last year, Okudah allowed only 15 catches for 178 yards and one score.  26.  OT AUSTIN JACKSON, USC:  The Lions gain this pick in the trade for No. 3 overall and add to an offensive line that saw a couple of key departures this offseason. They gave Halapoulivaati Vaitai a big contract, but it’s really a short-term commitment and he can kick inside to guard. Jackson isn’t even 21 years old yet and earned pass-blocking grades of 78.4 and 78.8 the past two seasons.) (3-25-20):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-post-free-agency-mock-draft-chargers-justin-herbert

Yahoo Eric Edholm (3. DE Chase Young:  This would be a windfall for the Lions, who still lack a true difference-maker on the front four other than Trey Flowers. Young could come in and be a pro-ready pass rusher the way Nick Bosa was last year for the 49ers.  If the first two picks go Burrow and Young, then Young’s teammate, CB Jeffrey Okudah, would be a fine choice. He’d fill a huge need, too.  35. CB AJ Terrell:  If they don’t take Jeff Okudah in Round 1, this would be a quality Plan B at a huge need position.) (3-25-20):  https://sports.yahoo.com/postfree-agency-nfl-mock-draft-what-happens-if-tua-tagovailoa-goes-no-2-184322901.html

CBS RJ White (9. DT Derrick Brown:  The Lions trade back with the Jaguars, pick up No. 20 and a mid-round pick plus this one, and get the top defensive tackle in this class, a player who could be a fit for them at No. 3 anyway. That's a big win for the Detroit front office.  20.  CB Kristian Fulton:  The Lions use the second first-rounder they acquired from the Jaguars in their trade down to bolster their talent at corner after dealing Darius Slay.) (3-24-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-tua-tagovailoa-lands-with-surprise-team-in-trade-up-ravens-make-big-move-for-receiver/

NFL.com Charlie Casserly (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  In the wake of the Darius Slay trade, the Lions pounce on the best cornerback in this class, slotting him across from free-agent signee Desmond Trufant.) (3-24-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107359/article/charley-casserlys-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-49ers-nab-wr-lamb

ESPN Mel Kiper Mock Draft (3. CB Jeff Okudah) (3-24-20):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/03/mel-kiper-switches-lions-pick-from-tua-tagovailoa-to-jeff-okudah-in-latest-nfl-mock-draft.html

Touchdown Wire Doug Farrar (3.  CB Jeff Okudah:  Somebody, please save Matt Patricia from himself. The Lions played more man coverage (54%) than any other team last year, so of course Patricia offloaded Darius Slay, one of the NFL’s better man coverage cornerbacks, in another one of his culture-changing moves. The Lions then signed ex-Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant, who is not at all a top-tier man-coverage guy. Whatever. At least the Lions can get better in the secondary with the selection of Okudah, who played man and match concepts at a very high level for the Buckeyes over the past three seasons.) (3-24-20):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/24/farrar-post-free-agency-nfl-mock-draft/2/

The Big lead Ryan Phillips (3. Detroit Lions: Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State:  This is prime position for a trade up to land Tua Tagovailoa. But in a no-trades mock draft, they have to make a pick. With this board and following the Darius Slay trade, I have them taking Jeff Okudah here.  Okudah is the best corner in the country by a considerable margin. He has the upside of a shutdown guy, which is exactly what the Lions need. A unanimous first team All-American in 2019, the 6-foot-1, 200-pound corner is an elite, lockdown guy a defense can build around.) (3-24-20):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/2020-nfl-mock-draft-free-agency-leads-to-major-shake-ups-01e2q3rbmc7h

Rotoworld Josh Norris (3. DETROIT LIONS – CB Jeff Okudah, OHIO STATE:  Based on Darius Slay’s comments, Matt Patricia seems to be having a difficult time connecting with his top players. With Slay’s departure, the Lions might prioritize landing Okudah to pair with Desmond Trufant and Justin Coleman. We see Brian Flores, another Belichick disciple, prioritizing secondary talent in Miami. Might Patricia do the same? This is another pick that might heat up with trade interest.) (3-24-20):  https://www.rotoworld.com/article/mock-draft/post-free-agency-mock-draft-0

NFL.com Lance Zielein Mock Draft (6. CB Jeff Okudah: PROJECTED TRADE WITH CHARGERS. With the trade of Darius Slay to the Eagles, the Lions will be ready to turn in the card for Okudah. He's a talented, twitchy CB1 who has room to get even better.) (3-20-20):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001107112/article/lance-zierlein-nfl-mock-draft-20-dolphins-go-get-joe-burrow

Foxsports (3. CB Jeff Okudah ((2019 season stats: 3 interceptions, 9 passes defended, 34 total tackles, 1 forced fumble):  The Lions needed help defensively in the offseason, and Matt Patricia got two plug-and-play guys on the first day of free agency: DT Nick Williams and LB Jamie Collins. As much as I liked the idea of Detroit drafting do-it-all LB Isaiah Simmons, Collins plays a similar position and knows Patricia’s system. Simmons is obviously the better talent with much more upside, but Detroit needs to win now, or the coaches and front office are toast. Okudah will start from Week 1 opposite new addition Desmond Trufant.) (3-19-20):   https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/nfl-mock-draft-free-agency-tom-brady-joe-burrow-trade-bengals-dolphins-tua-tagovailoa-patriots-031920

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (3. Lions — Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State:  Three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay got his wish to be sent out of Detroit, as the Lions moved him early on Thursday in a trade to the Philadelphia Eagles. With his departure, the Lions' need for a cornerback to join free agent signing Desmond Trufant is more pressing than ever. Good thing Okudah, one of the best players at his position in several years, is waiting in the draft.) (3-19-20):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/03/19/nfl-mock-draft-2020-free-agency-tom-brady-patriots-quarterback/2871968001/

PFF GM Mock Draft (3. DETROIT LIONS — EDGE CHASE YOUNG, OHIO STATE:  Edge may not be as valuable as cornerback, but we feel more confident projecting elite edge talent to the NFL than corners. There’s little doubt in our mind that Young is going to be a dominant pass-rushing force from day 1.) (3-16-20):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-pff-gm-mock-draft-patriots-select-potential-replacement-for-tom-brady-at-no-23

NFL.com Bucky Brooks Mock Draft (3. LB Isaiah Simmons:  Matt Patricia could opt for the Clemson standout to add a Swiss Army Knife to the defensive lineup.) (3-10-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001105692/article/bucky-brooks-2020-nfl-mock-draft-30-eagles-land-henry-ruggs

FTW (3.  DE Chase Young:  If Young lasts to third overall, Matt Patricia will be stoked. Young is arguably the best prospect in the draft class.) (3-8-20):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/03/2020-nfl-mock-draft-3-quarterback-surprises

NFL RealGM (3. Detroit Lions: Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State. If he’s still on the board, and he is in this scenario, Chase Young will be the pick. If he’s not, I expect Jeff Okudah and that’s independent of what happens with Darius Slay.) (3-7-20):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3252/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft-Version-30-Pre-Free-Agency-Projections

Draftcountdown (3. CB Jeff Odukah:  The Lions had the worst pass defense in the league last year, which is why Okudah gets the nod over Auburn DT Derrick Brown.  A unanimous five-star recruit coming out of high school, Okudah only had one career start entering his junior season due to the embarrassment of riches the Buckeyes have had at the cornerback position in recent years. Despite that modest experience Okudah was projected to be a Top 10 pick based mostly on potential. Not only did Okudah live up to those lofty expectations, he surpassed them. A big, fast and athletic cover guy, the physical tools were never in doubt with Okudah. Scouts wanted to see him make more plays in the secondary though and Okudah answered those questions in emphatic fashion. Okudah is arguably the first true shutdown corner to come along since Jalen Ramsey and is a better pro prospect than former teammates Marshon Lattimore (#11 overall in 2017) or Denzel Ward (#4 overall in 2018).) (3-7-20):   http://draftcountdown.com/mock-draft/2020-mock-draft/round-1-2020-mock-draft-1/

NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  I fully expect the Lions to trade out of this pick. They can slide back a couple of spots and still grab Okudah.) (3-2-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001104933/article/daniel-jeremiah-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-patriots-take-herbert

Rotoworld Thor Nystrom  (3. LB Isaiah Simmons:  I refuse to list Simmons as a linebacker – he’s a defensive weapon. You don’t draft him to play a traditional off-ball role. You draft him to move him all over the place, erase opponents, and tick off opposing offensive coordinators. The Lions are no doubt hoping Chase Young falls. If he doesn’t, Detroit really should take Miami’s Tua offer (or whoever has decided to buck up). Because the Lions don’t have one defensive need, they have a pride of them.  You wouldn’t argue with Jeffrey Okudah here, but Simmons’ ability to be deployed off-ball, on the edge, in the slot, and at safety feels like a better fit in a two-for-one special kind of way.  35. Mississippi State CB Cam Dantzler:  A long, explosive, suffocating corner from the SEC who figures to rise during the process. Dantzler (6’2/185) is skinny, but he’s an aggressive, fight-you-for-it type made for press coverage. He’d be a target of mine if I needed a corner early in Round 2. I wouldn’t wait much longer. Dantzler has enough high-level tape against top-notch competition that he shouldn’t drop outside the top-40, lack of hype right now notwithstanding.  67.  Michigan EDGE Josh Uche:  The Lions, in need of edge help, shop local with Uche, who piled up 25 hurries, 13 hurries and eight sacks in 206 pass-rushing attempts last year. That was good for an elite 91.4 PFF pass-rushing grade. Uche will drop a little because of size limitations (6’1/241), a foot fracture and torn meniscus in his past, and a game that is overly-reliant on athleticism over technical know-how.) (2-10-20):  https://www.rotoworld.com/article/mock-drafts/thor-nystrom-mock-draft-day-1 and Day 2 - https://www.rotoworld.com/article/mock-drafts/thor-nystrom-mock-draft-day-2?page=0

Tony Pauline (3. DT Derrick Brown:  This would be a major boost for the defensive line as Damon Harrison won’t last much longer and could possibly retire this offseason. Brown is a prospect I’ve gushed over the past two years and someone I graded as a top-12 pick a year ago before he decided to return to Auburn.  Presently listed third on my big board, Brown is a scheme versatile defender who can line up at multiple spots up front.) (1-13-20):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-pre-senior-bowl-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-saints-qb/

Round 1 Pick (31 CB, 10 DE, 6 DT, 5 LB):

31 CB Jeff Okudah
10 DE Chase Young
6 DT Derrick Brown
4 LB Isaiah Simmons

Round 1 Trade (1 CB, 1 OT, 1 QB):

1 CB Kristian Fulton
1 OT Austin Jackson
1 QB Jacob Eason

Round 2 Pick (4 DT, 2 S, 2 CB, 1 LB, 1 DE, 1 WR, 1 RB, 1 QB, 1 G):

3 DT Ross Blacklock
1 DT Neville Gallimore
1 RB D'Andre Swift
1 LB Zach Baun
1 CB Damon Arnette
1 CB AJ Terrell
1 G Shane Lemieux
1 DE Yetur Gross-Matos
1 WR Laviska Shenault
1 S Grant Delpit
1 S Xavier McKinney
1 QB Jordan Love

Round 2 Trade (3 RB, 1 S):

1 S Antoine Winfield
1 RB JK Dobbins
1 RB D'Andre Swift
1 RB Jonathan Taylor

Round 3 Pick 67 (4 DE, 2 CB, 1 S, 1 C, 1 OT, 1 QB):

3 DE Josh Uche
1 CB Cameron Dantzler
1 S Kyle Dugger
1 CB Jeff Gladney
1 C Cesar Ruiz
1 OT Robert Hunt
1 QB Jacob Eason
1 DE Curtis Weaver

Round 3 Pick 85 (2 DT, 2 RB, 2 DE, 1 CB, 1 WR, 1 LB):

1 DT Neville Gallimore
1 DT Marlon Davidson
1 CB Cameron Dantzler
1 DE Bradlee Anae
1 DE Jonathan Greenard
1 WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
1 RB Zach Moss
1 RB Jonathan Taylor
1 LB Josh Uche

Round 4 (1 G, 1 WR, 1 DE, 1 LB, 1 DT):

1 DT Carlos Davis
1 DE Josh Uche
1 LB Akeem Davis-Gaither
1 OG Netane Muti

Round 5 Pick 149 (1 CB, 1 LB):

1 LB Shaquille Quarterman
1 CB Shyheim Carter

Round 5 Pick 172 (1 LB, 1 WR):

1 LB Evan Weaver
1 WR Isaiah Hodgins

Round 6 (1 LB, 1 QB):

1 QB Cole McDonald
1 LB Shaquille Quarterman