Mock Draft Round up 25

CBS Josh Edwards (3.  CB Jeff Okudah:  Detroit replaces Darius Slay with a younger, cheaper player. It may not better them immediately but it gives them more flexibility in the long run.  35. S Grant Delpit:   Detroit snags a first-round caliber player at the top of the second round. Their new look secondary now features Okudah and Delpit.) (4-18-20):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-chargers-bypass-a-quarterback-eagles-trade-up-for-a-top-wide-receiver/

NFL.com Chad Reuter (3.  CB Jeff Okudah:  Matt Patricia gets his version of Stephon Gilmore, the outside shutdown corner he coached for one year in New England before heading to the Motor City.  35. S Grant Delpit.  67. DT Marlon Davidson.  85. G Ben Bredeson.  109.  WR Antonio Gandy-Golden.  149. DE Jabari Zuniga.  166. RB Joshua Kelley.  182. P Joseph Charlton.  235. CB Isaiah Swann) (4-17-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109774/article/chad-reuter-sevenround-2020-nfl-mock-draft-round-1

SI Mock Draft (3.  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 its 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. RB Cam Akers.  85. OT Ben Bartch.  109. G Jonah Jackson.  149. LB Justin Strnad.  166. S JR Reed.  182. WR Quartney Davis.  235. QB Nate Stanley) (4-17-20):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/17/nfl-mock-draft-16-all-seven-rounds

CBS RJ White (5. CB Jeff Okudah, Ohio S. from Miami. 23.  S Xavier McKinney, Alabama from NE*.  35. DT Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma. 67.  RB Cam Akers, Florida State. 70. G Jonah Jackson, Ohio State from MIA*.  85. S Antoine Winfield Jr., Minnesota from PHI.  87.  EDGE Khalid Kareem, Notre Dame from NE*.  109. WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, Michigan. 149. QB Anthony Gordon, Washington State. 166 P Braden Mann, Texas A&M from PHI.  182 LB Kamal Martin, Minnesota. 235 CB Stanford Samuels,) (4-16-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-seven-rounds-18-trades-255-picks-and-full-breakdowns-for-all-32-teams/

CBS Will Brinson (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Trading will be tough on draft day this year, so the Lions might be forced to simply hang out and take the best option at No. 3. In this case it's a replacement for Darius Slay.) (4-15-20):  
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-patriots-move-up-for-justin-herbert-cardinals-go-rogue-with-wide-receiver/

CBS Chris Trapasso (5. CB Jeff Okudah:  This is the ideal scenario for the Detroit, so after getting two second-rounders and a veteran receiver, the Lions land the top corner in the class.  35. DT Ross Blacklock:  Blacklock has a freaky first step, and the Lions love building the trenches.  39
 WR Denzel Mims:  After trading back in Round 1, the Lions get a complement to Kenny Golladay in the athletic Mims.) (4-15-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-giants-take-isaiah-simmons-patriots-land-a-qb-in-round-1/

NFL.com Schrager (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Okudah screams "Patriot Way." He's all business, a student of the game and completely deflects attention when it comes to others raving about his play. Lions general manager Bob Quinn, vice president of player personnel Kyle O'Brien and head coach Matt Patricia were all brought up through the Pats system. Good fit here. Goodbye, Darius Slay. Hello, Jeff Okudah.) (4-15-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109481/article/peter-schrager-nfl-mock-draft-20-ruggs-selected-before-jeudy

Draft Tek (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Could Detroit actually be considering a Quarterback at #3? There are many who speculate that it's a fathomable option for them, given Matthew Stafford's age, rumors he is frustrated with management, and his injury history. All of the various reasons you've heard circulating over the past few months do add up and make sense, but the ultimate question is, would they actually do it?  Detroit has been a difficult team to read under Bob Quinn throughout his tenure here in the Motor City. We talk at length about his inconsistencies by what he says and does in order to highlight the (perceived) rationale that will go into making their Draft Day selection.  After firing Jim Caldwell, Quinn stated the team was "better" than their record indicated, and that "9-7 was not good enough". Fast forward to present day, and the Lions have not only gotten worse record-wise, but perhaps more delusional, as upper management handed down the "win-now" mandate to a 3-12-1 team. With the team's record having gotten progressively worse after Caldwell's firing, how can the team expect a playoff berth? Does Quinn actually believe the roster is better than the record shows? If so, why not negotiate a deal with Darius Slay to keep him there? Why release both Graham Glasgow and Devon Kennard this past offseason? Perhaps most importantly, what do other teams around the NFL believe about the Detroit Lions' roster as it stands?  Maybe it is all smokescreen and Detroit is looking to find a partner to trade down with, but this requires other teams believing Detroit is in a rebuild. If they don't believe that's true, then they will call Quinn's bluff. Quinn will then have a hard choice to make. Does he believe in the roster or not? It's what makes Draft Day, mock drafts, and speculation so fun, but equally as frustrating to figure out. Either way, I'm sure we'll all be sitting back and watching the madness unfold come Draft Day. We'll be right here to react together. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst  35. OG Shane Lemieux:  In an attempt to mitigate the loss of Graham Glasgow this offseason, we have the Lions selecting Oregon Guard, Shane Lemieux. Ideally, the Lions should be looking to acquire more draft picks by trading their #3-overall selection to move down. If they were to acquire at least another RD2 pick, this would make the Lemieux selection even sweeter.  By selecting Lemieux, the Lions will not only fill the void left by Graham Glasgow's departure, but they will also be acquiring a player with some much needed attitude and grit. That's not to say Glasgow did not have these attributes to his game, but he was mostly known for his versatility to play both Guard and Center. While this was a valuable trait for Glasgow, Lemieux will be able to step in on Day One and provide the Lions an opportunity to enhance the Darrell Bevell identity of a "run-first" offense built around play-action. Not only will this toughness and "brute ball" (as Lance Zierlein wrote in his scouting report of Lemieux) help the running game and Kerryon Johnson's production, but it should also help open up the offense --even more so than the early stages of last season where Stafford was having one of the best statistical seasons of his career. If not Lemieux here, an offensive linemen "like" Lemieux could be the Lions X-Factor into success in 2020. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst.  67.  DE Curtis Weaver.  85. LB Anfernee Jennings  109. DT Carlos Davis. 149. LB Shaquille Quarterman. 166.  WR Antonio Gibson. 182. QB Nate Stanley) (4-17-20):   https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft-Round-1.asp

ESPN Mel Kiper Mock Draft (3. CB Jeff Okudah.  35.  DT Ross Blacklock) (4-14-20):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/mel-kiper-sticks-with-jeff-okudah-adds-tcu-dl-in-2-round-nfl-mock-draft-for-detroit-lions.html

CBS Tom Fornelli (14. DT Derrick Brown:  It's not the most pressing need for the Lions, but if Brown falls to them here after they traded down twice and picked up more picks, there's no way they could pass on him.) (4-14-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-dolphins-trade-up-for-justin-herbert-jaguars-land-tua-tagovailoa/

CBS Cody Benjamin (5. CB Jeff Okudah - Lions acquire No. 5, No. 39 from Dolphins for No. 3. Bob Quinn gets his wish and collects another high draft pick, all while scooping up a Day One replacement for Darius Slay on the outside.) (4-14-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-colts-patriots-make-surprise-trades-for-qbs-browns-move-up-inside-top-10/

NFL.com Bucky Brooks Mock Draft (3. DT Derrick Brown:  Cornerback is a top priority, but coach Matt Patricia might opt for line-of-scrimmage disruption over tight coverage when retooling the Lions' defense.) (4-14-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109299/article/bucky-brooks-2020-nfl-mock-draft-40-tua-tagovailoa-falls-to-9

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (3. Lions — Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State:  A possible trade up by a quarterback-needy team — namely the Dolphins or Chargers — is the move that could send ripples throughout the first round. Unless that materializes, Okudah shouldn't face much competition for consideration by Detroit, which has an untenable outlook in its secondary.) (4-14-20):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/04/14/nfl-mock-draft-2020-jordan-love-quarterbacks-first-round/2979994001/

Walterfootball (6.  Detroit Lions - LB Isaiah Simmons:  I've had Jeff Okudah slotted here (or No. 3) for a while. I still think it could happen, but I'm now leaning toward the pick being Isaiah Simmons. The Clemson stud would be a great chess piece in Detroit's defense, and he was a team captain last year, which is a big deal for Detroit's front office.  Simmons flew all around the field and has been a physical presence for Clemson. He can play linebacker and safety, or really almost any position on defense. He put on a show at the combine with some amazing testing numbers, so he could be chosen earlier than this.  35. RB Jonathan Taylor:  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.  Jonathan Taylor showed surprising athleticism at the combine, which helped mitigate some of the concerns teams have with the workload he handled at Wisconsin.  37.  CB AJ Terrell:  This is one of the picks the Lions received from the Chargers in my proposed trade in the first round.  If the Lions don't select Jeff Okudah at No. 3 or 6, they'll have to find a cornerback to start across from Desmond Trufant on Day 2.  A.J. Terrell has good size (6-2, 190) and nice skill set. He did very well at the combine.  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.  166.  LB Shaquille Quarterman:  The Lions could strengthen their linebacking corps as early as No. 3 overall with Isaiah Simmons. They could stand to add two players at the position.  182.  OT Jared Hilbers:  The Lions spent a ton of money on Philadelphia's backup tackle. Here's some insurance for that huge contract.  235. WR Dezmon Patmon:   Marvin Jones may not be around much longer, so the Lions could use a third-day pick on a potential successor.) (4-14-20):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2020.php

CBS Ryan Wilson (3.  CB Jeff Okudah:  The team traded Darius Slay and signed Desmond Trufant. Trading out of this pick would be ideal but it'll be hard to pass on Okudah here if they stay put.  35. RB D'Andre Swift:  Swift is the best RB in this class and he'll give Matthew Stafford a much-needed backfield weapon.) (4-13-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2020-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-bears-among-five-to-add-qbs-while-ravens-land-two-round-2-playmakers/

Touchdown Wire Mark Schofield (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  With the loss of Darius Slay via a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, the Detroit Lions now have a huge need at the cornerback position. They can address that with a scheme-diverse, fluid cornerback in Jeff Okudah out of Ohio State. He has lockdown corner potential, as demonstrated by the numbers from his final season with the Buckeyes. Last year, Okudah allowed opposing passers a passer rating of just 45.3 when he was targeted, giving up just 27 catches on 58 targets for one touchdown, with three interceptions. Matt Patricia can look to use him on an island in man coverage schemes, but he also has the versatility to play off coverage or even in zones. He is a great scheme fit for what Patricia wants to dial up defensively.) (4-13-20):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/13/touchdown-wires-mock-draft-6-0-the-how-id-do-it-version/

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.  LB Terrell Lewis:  The Lions could use more edge-rush talent across from Trey Flowers.  Lewis totaled 31 tackles, six sacks and two passes batted in 2019. He was a dynamic edge rusher, showing speed, power, length, and some moves. Lewis was playing well in the 2017 season opener before sustaining an injury that cost him most of the season. He totaled just 16 tackles with a sack on the year, but scouts who watched 2018 spring football were raving about him. Sources believe Lewis has a ton of potential. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL in the summer of 2018, so he missed the 2018 season.  The edge defender, formerly known as Terrell Hall, developed behind the scenes for Alabama in 2016. Scouts have told me the 6-foot-5, 247-pounder is big and quick, plus possesses surprising change-of-direction skills. They said Lewis has a great build and is dripping with upside.  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  Justin Strnad:  The Lions could use more linebacker depth and competition.  149.  RB JJ Taylor:  The Lions could use more running back depth and competition.  166.  OT Tyre Phillips:  The Lions add some depth to their offensive line.  182.  WR Tyrie Cleveland:  Detroit takes some receiving depth and a potential core special teams contributor.) (4-6-20):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2020charlie.php

CBS Tyler Sullivan (5.  CB Jeff Okudah:  This is a win-win for Detroit. They trade down and still get the player they would have taken at No. 3. Okudah's a top-flight corner and a strong replacement for Darius Slay.) (4-12-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-raiders-make-splash-by-adding-another-qb-ravens-trade-up-for-lsu-star/

Draftwire (3. Detroit Lions - CB Jeff Okudah.  35. DE Yetur Gross-Matos.  66. DT Marlon Davidson.  85.  WR Donovan Peoples-Jones.  109. LB Chris Orr.  149. RB Eno Benjamin.  166. OL Sean Pollard.  182.  TE Devin Asiasi.  235. OT Justin Herron) (4-11-20):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/11/2020-nfl-mock-draft-7-rounds-updated-joe-burrow-tua-tagovailoa-justin-herbert/

CBS Patrick Walker (3.  LB Isaiah Simmons:  With as many needs as the Lions have, ignoring arguably the most versatile athlete in the draft simply isn't an option) (4-11-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-cowboys-patriots-trade-up-to-land-needed-firepower-and-vikings-raise-some-eyebrows/

Foxsports Joel Klatt (3.  CB Jeff Okudah) (4-10-20):  https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/video/1722934339895

Yahoo Readers Mock (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Analysis: Three polls, three landslides. Okudah received more than 60 percent, Isaiah Simmons next at 20. Trades down weren’t allowed — too messy for this experiment — and most folks understood the limitations.  Are people getting … nicer?) (4-10-20):  https://sports.yahoo.com/readers-2020-nfl-mock-draft-lots-of-interesting-results-with-your-picks-181140836.html

CBS Pete Prisco (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  They should take Derrick Brown in this spot, but I think they might be leaning to the corner. Okudah is clearly the best of this class.) (4-9-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-dolphins-pass-on-tua-tagovailoa-raiders-land-a-new-franchise-quarterback/

CBS John Breech (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  After trading away Darius Slay, the Lions are in dire need of some help in their secondary, and that's where Okudah comes in. The former Ohio State corner would be an instant starter on Detroit's defense.) (4-9-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-three-wild-trades-as-patriots-get-surprise-qb-tom-brady-gets-some-big-help/

NFL.com Adam Rank (30. LB Isaiah Simmons:  You're in a pretty good spot here, Lions. You can either take the cornerback everybody wants you to take. Or you can take the best defender on the board. But what you really need to do is to get the Dolphins or Chargers to move up here for Tua. Because you're still going to end up with one of those stud defenders regardless, and you can grab some extra picks, too. And for the record, I'm going with Simmons because, well, do you even watch college football, brah?) (4-9-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108855/article/2020-nfl-mock-draft-with-a-twist-what-teams-should-do

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.  67. DT Justin Madubuike:  The Lions can keep working on defense after addressing cornerback and edge rush well earlier in this mock. Madubuike (6-3, 293 pounds) won't be confused with the giants at the position, but he has a great combination of power and quickness. He uses his lower body to gain leverage against the run.  85. G Jonah Jackson:  The Lions need to get more athletic inside after losing Graham Glasgow. Jackson (6-3, 306 pounds is a unique prospect because he is a pure pass-protecting interior blocker. He has the frame and strength to develop in the running game.  109. Detroit Lions: Lucas Niang, OT, TCU.  149. Detroit Lions: Gabriel Davis, WR, UCF.  166. Detroit Lions (from Eagles): Rico Dowdle, RB, South Carolina.  182. Detroit Lions: Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M.  235: Detroit Lions (from Eagles through Patriots): Steven Montez, QB, Colorado) (4-9-20):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-7-rounds-patriots-raiders-colts/x1p3hl1wxmkl14lasxq8y9xlx

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.  35. AJ Epenesa:  Epenesa’s Combine numbers may scare teams away, but his fall will be some lucky team's gain. He racked up a 31.5% win rate on 54 pass-rush snaps from the interior last season.  67.  DT Raekwon Davis:  Davis is a classic 2-gapping interior player perfect to sit on the interior of the Lions' line. They add massive reinforcements to their defense with their first three picks.  85. OT Robert Hunt:  With their glaring needs already addressed, the Lions go back to the well at offensive line and continue their focus on the trenches. Left guard Joe Dahl doesn’t match their physical run-blocking style, but the 330-plus pound Hunt and his 86.0 run-blocking grade last year do.) (4-8-20):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-pff-2020-nfl-three-round-mock-draft-colts-jalen-hurts-eagles-jacob-eason

NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (3. CB Jeff Okudah:  Okudah is the premier player at his position in this draft and fills a massive need on the Lions' defense.) (4-7-20):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108489/article/daniel-jeremiah-2020-nfl-mock-draft-30-packers-pick-a-qb

CBS Jared Dubin (3. LB Isaiah Simmons:  Matt Patricia came to Detroit from New England where he deployed all kinds of versatile linebackers within Bill Belichick's scheme. Simmons may be even more versatile than anyone he had with the Pats.) (4-7-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-six-receivers-taken-in-round-1-but-none-inside-the-top-10/

Touchdown Wire Doug Farrar (3.  DE Chase Young:  Washington picking Jeff Okudah gives the Lions an interesting choice with the third pick, though Matt Patricia needs cornerbacks right now just as much as Ron Rivera does. After trading Darius Slay to the Eagles for a pittance, Detroit has Desmond Trufant and Justin Coleman as its primary players at that position. Either Patricia and the rest of Detroit’s draft room will have to over-pick a defensive back, trade down, or take Chase Young and make the pass rush a whole lot better. Young would do that — he has nearly every attribute required to play his position at the highest level, and even during the three-game sackless streak at the end of his collegiate career, he was still making and preventing plays.) (4-7-20):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/24/farrar-post-free-agency-nfl-mock-draft/2/

Foxsports (3. CB Jeff Okudah ((2019 season stats: 3 interceptions, 9 passes defended, 34 total tackles, 1 forced fumble):  The Lions front office is desperate to win and keep their jobs, which is why you’re hearing all this trade smoke. It’s smart of them to shop the No. 3 pick to the highest bidder and try to generate interest in one of the QBs. Outside of a big trade package, Okudah makes the most sense here.) (4-7-20):   https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/nfl-mock-draft-free-agency-tom-brady-joe-burrow-trade-bengals-dolphins-tua-tagovailoa-patriots-031920

CBS Bryan DeArdo (6. CB Jeff Okudah via trade with Chargers) (4-6-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-quarterbacks-off-board-early-in-a-first-round-filled-with-trades/live/

CBS Jeff Kerr (3.  CB Jeff Okudah:  The Lions traded Darius Slay to the Eagles and could use a cornerback on their revamped defense. Okudah has the makeup of a shutdown corner, continuing the new tradition of having one in Detroit.) (4-5-20):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2020-jaguars-get-gardner-minshew-help-at-receiver-two-running-backs-go-in-round-1/

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/

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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/

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

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

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

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

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/

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 (42 CB, 8 DE, 5 LB, 6 DT):

42 CB Jeff Okudah
8 DE Chase Young
6 DT Derrick Brown
5 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, 3 DE, 3 RB, 2 CB, 2 S, 1 WR, 1 QB, 1 G, 1 CB):

3 DT Ross Blacklock
2 DE Yetur Gross-Matos
2 RB D'Andre Swift
2 S Grant Delpit
1 DT Neville Gallimore
1 RB Jonathan Taylor
1 CB Damon Arnette
1 CB AJ Terrell
1 G Shane Lemieux
1 WR Laviska Shenault
1 DE AJ Epenesa
1 QB Jordan Love

Round 2 Trade (2 S, 1 CB, 1 WR):

1 S Antoine Winfield
1 S Xavier McKinney
1 CB AJ Terrell
1 WR Denzel Mims

Round 3 Pick 67 (4 DT, 2 DE, 2 RB, 1 S, 1 C, 1 QB, 1 LB):

2 DT Marlon Davidson
2 RB Cam Akers
1 DT Justin Madubuike
1 DE Josh Uche
1 S Kyle Dugger
1 C Cesar Ruiz
1 QB Jacob Eason
1 DT Raekwon Davis
1 DE Curtis Weaver
1 LB Terrell Lewis

Round 3 Trade (1 G):

1 G Jonah Jackson

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

1 DT Neville Gallimore
1 DT Marlon Davidson
1 CB Cameron Dantzler
1 DE Jonathan Greenard
1 WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
1 RB Jonathan Taylor
1 LB Anfernee Jennings
1 G Robert Hunt
1 G Jonah Jackson
1 G Ben Bredeson
1 S Antoine Winfield
1 OT Ben Bartch

Round 3 Trade (1 DE):

1 DE Khalid Kareem

Round 4 (2 LB, 2 WR, 1 DE, 1 DT, 1 OT, 1 G):

1 DT Carlos Davis
1 DE Josh Uche
1 LB Justin Strnad
1 LB Chris Orr
1 OT Lucas Niang
1 WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
1 WR Antoino Gandy-Golden
1 G Jonah Jackson

Round 5 Pick 149 (2 RB, 2 LB, 1 WR, 1 CB, 1 QB, 1 DE):

1 LB Shaquille Quarterman
1 CB Shyheim Carter
1 WR Gabriel Davis
1 RB JJ Taylor
1 RB Eno Benjamin
1 QB Anthony Gordon
1 DE Jabari Zuniga
1 LB Justin Strnad

Round 5 Pick 166 (2 RB, 1 OT, 1 LB, 1 WR, 1 OL, 1 P, 1 S):

1 LB Shaquille Quarterman
1 WR Antonio Gibson
1 RB Rico Dowdle
1 OT Tyrie Phillips
1 OL Sean Pollard
1 P Braden Mann
1 RB Joshua Kelley
1 S JR Reed

Round 6 (1 QB, 1 OT, 1 P, 1 WR, 1 LB, 1 CB, 1 P):

1 QB Nate Stanley
1 OT Jared Hilbers
1 P Brandon Mann
1 TE Devin Asiasi
1 WR Tyrie Cleveland
1 LB Kamal Martin
1 P Joseph Charlton
1 WR Quartney Davis

Round 7 (2 QB, 1 WR, 1 OT, 1 CB):

1 QB Steven Montez
1 QB Nate Stanley
1 WR Dezmon Patmon
1 OT Justin Herron
1 CB Stanford Samuels
1 CB Isaiah Swann