CBS Kerr (7. WR Devonta Smith: The Lions need a top wide receiver and find their man in Smith. He can fit in any offense while creating a glaring mismatch in the slot. Jared Goff has his No. 1 wideout that offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn will utilize all over the field in his rookie season. Expect Smith to have a big year in Detroit.) (4-2-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-jamarr-chase-first-of-seven-receivers-taken-in-round-1-as-dolphins-land-two-playmakers/
97.1 the Ticket Stoney (7. Lions: Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern - Says Stoney: "Need to build up the right side of the line. Love his versatility and intelligence, and they think they can get a good receiver later in draft.") (4-2-21): https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/lions-go-ol-in-stoneys-mock-draft-1-0
CBS Edwards (7. WR Jaylen Waddle: Detroit is going to be able to challenge the field more vertically. Breshad Perriman and Tyrell Williams are not going to cut it in that wide receiver room.) (4-1-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/two-round-2021-nfl-mock-draft-broncos-trade-up-for-one-of-five-qbs-taken-in-the-top-ten/
ESPN McShay (8. (Lions trade with Carolina) WR Jaylen Waddle. 41. LB Nick Bolton) (4-1-21): https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/lions-go-trade-wr-lb-in-mcshays-two-round-mock
NFL Rank (7. QB Justin Fields: I know you just traded for Jared Goff. But he's regressed the last couple of years ... with offensive guru Sean McVay. Maybe Goff can thrive with Anthony Lynn in Detroit. You know, the coach who was in charge during Justin Herbert's amazing rookie season? But I think we've seen enough of Goff to know what we're getting. Goff would be fine as like the backup in Kansas City or something. Fields could be your QB of the future. And if nothing else, start dropping hints that you want to do that and see if the Panthers would like to jump up and swap picks.) (4-1-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-with-a-twist-what-every-team-should-do
Yahoo (7. Detroit Lions - LB Micah Parsons: Another trade-down possibility, the Lions could bypass a QB here and keep adding to their future-pick till and go all in on Jared Goff’s potential replacement in 2022. We also can’t help but go back to what new head coach Dan Campbell said about building a “core foundation” recently. And for the examples of players who fit that mold, Campbell mentioned Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Luke Kuechly. This should be GM Brad Holmes’ call. But don’t forget that Chris Spielman is helping steer the direction of the franchise, as is senior personnel executive John Dorsey. Spielman is a former linebacker, and Dorsey never seemed to fret over certain character concerns, like the ones Parsons carries with his evaluation. If they could slide back and grab Parsons, we’d like it even more.) (4-1-21): https://sports.yahoo.com/2021-nfl-mock-draft-mystery-begins-with-49-ers-qb-pick-at-no-3-135437241.html
CBS Trapasso (7. WR Jaylen Waddle: Waddle should give new Lions GM Brad Holmes memories of Brandin Cooks in Los Angeles. And Waddle's better. 41. CB Tyson Campbell.) (3-31-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2021-nfl-two-round-mock-draft-falcons-go-kyle-pitts-at-no-4-overall-broncos-pick-penei-sewell/
Draft Tek (7. WR Devonta Smith: A few weeks ago, the Lions may have been in consideration for taking a QB with their #7 selection. Whether it was Goff or Stafford under center for the 2021 season, the #7 slot looked like QB could have been a possibility to "groom" behind a veteran QB. With the 49ers and the Dolphins wheeling and dealing, the Niners move up to #3, and all indications are they're heavily looking at a QB. Can you blame them? Jimmy G hasn't been lighting it up. This all but ensures the Lions won't be in a spot to grab one of the top-notch QBs in this class. As our mock indicates, Justin Fields and Zach Wilson are taken ahead of them at #7. The Lions would then have to trade down or reach to grab Kyle Trask or Mac Jones if they wanted to exit Round 1 with a future investment at QB. All of this to say that, it isn't likely to happen. The Lions are still relatively weak at the receiver position, despite signing Tyrell Williams, Breshad Perriman, and Kalif Raymond, all who provide "speed" and "playmaking ability", but can you really pass up on a bonafide WR1 in DeVonta Smith? I don't think so. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst 41. LB Zaven Collins: When instinct meets talent in a player, you have a special concoction. This mixture creates a keystone that you can build around, a player that will be an integral piece in a "retooling" process or a culture shift. Who is that player? That player is the OLB from Tulsa, Zaven Collins. I will admit, I didn't watch much of Tulsa football in 2020, but watching his highlight reels, you really do see this mixture of natural instinct blended with physical talent, and its really special to watch. As a 3-year starter at Tulsa, Collins racked up 236 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, and 5 interceptions (4 of which came in 8 games in 2020). Collins is already being discussed as a competitor to Micah Parsons for the "best linebacker in the 2021 class" moniker --a player for whom Detroit is being considered as suitors for Parsons at #7. If Zaven Collins somehow drops to pick #41, mercy me, what a steal it would be. - Doug Hyde, Lions Analyst 72. DT Marvin Wilson. 101. DT Darius Stills 112. S Ar'Darius Washington. 153. CB Darren Hall) (3-31-21): https://www.drafttek.com/2021-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp
Foxsports Mcintyre (7. Detroit Lions – Kwity Paye, Edge, Michigan (4) (2020 season stats: 2 sacks, 16 total tackles): I can’t see a receiver here unless it’s Chase, even though it’s a need. Paye joins a very strong defensive front that features Trey Flowers, Romeo Okwara and Michael Brockers.) (3-31-21): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/mock-draft-jason-mcintyre-justin-fields-zach-wilson-trevor-lawrence-49ers
Walterfootball (7. WR Ja'Marr Chase: Matthew Stafford was traded to the Rams, but I don't think they're going after a quarterback with this pick because they're likely to give Jared Goff a try for one year. If so, Detroit will focus on its other big issues, including their receivers. Both Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones are impending free agents, and only one is expected to return. Chase caught 17 passes in his freshman year, then took a huge step forward in 2019, displaying the ability of a top-10 prospect. 41. DE Carlos Basham: The Lions had severe issues stopping the run last year. They also need to improve their pass rush. Focusing on their weak defensive line should be a priority. Carlos Basham always stuffed the run well, but his pass rush improved tremendously from 2018 to 2019. 72. CB Rodarius Williams: The Lions cut Desmond Trufant, so they'll have to find another cornerback to start across from Jeff Okudah. Rodarius Williams had always been just a steady player at Oklahoma State, but his play improved exponentially in 2020. 88. DT Tyler Shelvin: The Lions can use the pick they acquired from the Rams to fix their woeful run defense. Another lineman makes sense. 112. OT Austin Deculus: The Lions need a better right tackle than what they had at the position last year. Help at guard could be obtained as well. 154. S Divine Deablo: The Lions had one of the worst secondaries in the NFL last year, so they'll need multiple new players to that group.) (3-30-21): https://walterfootball.com/draft2021.php
CBS Prisco (7. WR Jaylen Waddle: The Lions have issues outside in their passing game, even with the additions of a few receivers in free agency. In this mock, they opt for Waddle over DeVonta Smith.) (3-30-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-49ers-land-justin-fields-after-trade-as-qbs-go-1-2-3-4-dolphins-eagles-get-top-wrs/
NFL.com Frelund (7 WR Ja'Marr Chase: Should the Dolphins select Chase at No. 6, the next-best pick to increase the Lions' 2021 win total is linebacker Micah Parsons.) (3-30-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/cynthia-frelund-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-analytics-based-picks-to-maximize-wins
CBS Wilson (7. WR Ja'Marr Chase: Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones are gone, Jared Goff is the new QB, and if the Lions don't target a quarterback, it's imperative to get Goff some weapons. Chase is the most complete WR in the class. 41. CB Kelvin Joseph. 72. QB Davis Mills. 102. OT Spencer Brown) (3-29-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/three-round-2021-nfl-mock-draft-49ers-take-surprising-qb-at-no-3-dolphins-eagles-add-offensive-playmakers/
Draftwire (7. Lions - WR Ja'Marr Chase 41. DE Jaelan Phillips) (3-29-21): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2021-nfl-mock-draft-new-2-round-projections-after-blockbuster-trades/
Walterfootball Charlie (7. OT Alijah Vera-Tucker - Detroit takes the best player available here, grabbing a right tackle to help form one of the best offensive lines in the NFL with Taylor Decker and Frank Ragnow. With Austin Jackson in the NFL, Vera-Tucker took over as the Trojans' left tackle and played well in limited action. Vera-Tucker was going to sit out the 2020 season before opting back in, and re-joining USC helped him display the versatility to compete at guard or tackle in the NFL. The 6-foot-4, 315-pound Vera-Tucker was a good left guard for the Trojans in 2019 and has upside to develop at the next level. In the ground game, Vera-Tucker is not a bull at the point of attack, but he is effective. He is more of a wall-off-and-position blocker who beats defenders to a spot to cover them up and keep them from making a tackle. He does a nice job of scrapping and keeping his hands fighting to sustain his blocks. It would help him to add strength if his frame isn't maxed out. For a pro rushing offense, Vera-Tucker might fit best in a zone-blocking scheme. There is a lot to like about Vera-Tucker in pass protection for the next level. He is an easy mover with athleticism, quickness and agility. He can glide with speed rushers, showing an easy ability to play the typewriter with his feet. Vera-Tucker is a natural knee bender who maintains good leverage while avoiding bending at the waist. He looks like a starting left tackle or guard in the NFL. 41. LB Jabril Cox: Detroit needs more young linebacker talent badly. The North Dakota State transfer, Cox (6-4, 231) has a ton of upside and was one of the only bright spots for LSU during the 2020 season. He totaled 58 tackles with one sack, three interceptions and five passes defended on the year. Cox has good size and speed, and teams see him as a future starter and a player who should continue to improve as he gains experience. Cox was a tremendous pass coverage linebacker in college. For the NFL, he needs to get more physical. 72. S Richie Grant: The Lions could use an addition at safety. Grant (6-0, 194) played well for Central Florida in his collegiate carer, showing good instinct s in coverage and contributing some physicality in run defense. Multiple team sources were impressed with Grant at the Senior Bowl and said he helped himself in Mobile. Teams feel Grant has issues in man coverage, but he is a hard hitter and has good ball skills. They feel he is a sleeper prospect who could be a steal in the 2021 NFL Draft. Over the past three seasons, Grant was very productive. In 2020, he recorded 72 tackles, three interceptions and five passes defended. Grant jumped out with a massive 2018 season, totaling 108 tackles, six interceptions, two forced fumbles and three passes broken up. In 2019, Grant came down to earth with 78 tackles, an interception and a forced fumble. 88. WR Tylan Wallace: Detroit could take advantage of the 2021 NFL Draft's strong wide receiver class to add multiple long-term solutions at the position. Wallace recorded 59 catches for 922 yards and six touchdowns in 2020. He had 53 receptions for 903 yards and eight touchdowns in 2019 before going down with a season-ending injury. As a sophomore, he caught 86 passes for 1,491 yards with 12 touchdowns. Wallace (6-0, 185) might fit best in the NFL as a slot receiver because team sources say he is not as big as his listed numbers. They feel Wallace is similar to Josh Doctson, but Wallace is smaller. They call Wallace a tough receiver who plays big but lacks speed. They state he runs good routes and runs well after the catch, but doesn't have a special dimension of mismatch size or speed. 112. WR Shi Smith: The Lions grab a potential slot receiver who could be a mid-round steal.) (3-29-21): https://walterfootball.com/draft2021charlie.php
NFL.com Zierlein (7. WR Devonta Smith: The Lions must add more help at receiver for Jared Goff. Smith is the most talented inside/outside target in this draft.) (3-29-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2021-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-eagles-land-jaylen-waddle-after-trading-d
O'Hara (My Pick: WR Ja'Marr Chase, LSU) (3-29-21): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/mock-7-3-0-how-recent-trades-free-agency-impact-picks-chase-wilson-lance
PFF Gayle (7. DETROIT LIONS: OT Penei Sewell: I’d include a kneecap joke here if the bit wasn’t already played out in January. Plus, the better joke to be had is the sheer state of Detroit’s roster. Dan Campbell’s Lions are one of Vegas’ favorites to pick No. 1 overall in 2022. With Jared Goff replacing Matthew Stafford and Kenny Golladay now suiting up for the New York Giants, Detroit's offense is well on its way to being a bottom-five unit in the NFL this season. Give Spencer Rattler, Sam Howell, Kedon Slovis or the field a fighting chance in 2022 and add the best non-quarterback in this class. 42. LB Nick Bolton) (3-29-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-two-round-2021-nfl-mock-draft-san-francisco-49ers-justin-fields-kyle-pitts-joe-burrow-cincinnati-bengals
Freep Birkett (7. Lions: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida. Oh, boy. Another tight end. Only Pitts is not your normal tight end. He is a mismatch player who can attach to the line of scrimmage or split wide. New Lions coach Dan Campbell is a former tight end who loves mismatches, so as odd as it seems, this is a good fit for the Lions. I dig deeper on this pick in my story on Pitts and the Lions.) (3-28-21): https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2021/03/28/nfl-mock-draft-2021-detroit-lions/6986024002/
Foxsports Rob Rang (7. Detroit Lions – Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama: New quarterback Jared Goff will need playmakers to live up to the trade of the stronger-armed Matthew Stafford, and the Lions’ top targets are all free agents. Waddle possesses the elusiveness and speed to immediately become Goff’s favorite target. 39. Detroit Lions – Levi Onwuzurike, DT, Washington: Expiring contracts for several defensive linemen the next two years will have Motown looking for both muscle and disruption. Onwuzurike offers both. 72. Detroit Lions – Patrick Jones II, DE, Pittsburgh. 88. Detroit Lions – Benjamin St. Juste, CB, Minnesota) (3-27-21): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/mock-draft-trey-lance-49ers-philadelphia-eagles-trade-trevor-lawrence-devonta-smith
USA Today Nate Davis (7. Detroit Lions – OT Rashawn Slater: Given the state of their rebuild – which is pretty much at square one – and new QB Jared Goff's restructured deal, they're likely out of the QB sweepstakes for now. A receiver certainly makes sense after Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones signed elsewhere. But adding a quality blocker like Slater, who can play anywhere on the O-line, seems to align with new coach Dan Campbell's personality and new OC Anthony Lynn's desire to run the ball – something the Lions have rarely done effectively since Barry Sanders retired.) (3-27-21): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2021/03/27/nfl-mock-draft-2021-trades-niners-dolphins-free-agency-first-round/7021948002/
SN (7. Detroit Lions (5-11) - WR Jaylen Waddle: Waddle is a highly skilled all-around natural pass-catcher. He can run all the routes at a high level, from flashing as a deep threat to finishing well in the red zone. The Lions need to overhaul at wide receiver with Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr. and Danny Amendola all not re-signed. Former Jet Breshad Perriman for the outside isn't enough. Here's the No. 1 option they need for new quarterback Jared Goff as Waddle can play well off the receiving skills of running back D'Andre Swift and tight end T.J. Hockenson.) (3-26-21): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2021-49ers-eagles-dolphins-cowboys-broncos/qhlixqvnztkl1ha6hg2mh6o4s
Touchdown Wire Schoefield (7. Detroit Lions: WR Jaylen Waddle: The Detroit Lions have serious questions at wide receiver. Kenny Golladay is now in New York with the Giants, Marvin Jones is in Jacksonville with the Jaguars, and while the team did add Breshad Perriman and Tyrell Williams in recent days, adding more talent to this group should be a priority. Jaylen Waddle offers explosive play-making ability downfield. His combination of route-running and route-pacing immediately makes him one of Jared Goff’s favorite targets in the passing game. 41. CB Asante Samuel: I will admit that I often struggle when it comes to predicting what the Green Bay Packers do in this spot, as there are a number of different directions you can go. In previous mock drafts I had the Packers address the defensive line given A: Their needs at the position and B: The relative thinness of this class, and perhaps that is where they go. Green Bay could also look at cornerback, and with Eric Stokes and Asante Samuel Jr. both available, those are options. Like almost every other draft analyst under the sun, I consider wide receiver an option here as well, just like we did last season. But then I look at a player like Baron Browning and, similar to the discussion of Jeremiah Owus-Koramoah I consider what he can offer to a defense against the modern NFL offenses. Browning is athletic and explosive, and can be used in a number of different roles. He might best be suited as an EDGE, but you can also put him in the slot and use his athleticism in space. With new defensive coordinator Joe Barry you could also see Browning carving out a role in the middle of the defense when Barry dials up some of his Cover-2/Tampa-2 playcalls, with Browning dropping has that middle-field runner. Browning is polarizing for sure, and this might seem like a reach, but with all that he offers it is an intriguing fit for Green Bay.) (3-26-21): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/mark-schofields-mock-draft-3-0-new-and-improved-with-two-rounds/
Athlon Sports (7. Detroit Lions — WR Jaylen Waddle: Kenny Golladay has moved on for a big payday but Waddle could be a like-for-like replacement into the starting lineup. His speed will provide a nice option deep for new QB Jared Goff and his competitiveness in fighting back from injury is sure to endure the Tide product to new head coach Dan Campbell.) (3-26-21): https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2021-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-updated-free-agency
NFL.com Reuter (7. LB Micah Parsons: Parsons should be Dan Campbell's type of player: aggressive, fast and tough, whether chasing down quarterbacks in the pocket or ball carriers trying to get to the sideline. 41. CB Asante Samuel. 72. WR Rondale Moore. 101. S Jamar Johnson. 113. QB Kellen Mond) (3-26-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/four-round-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-49ers-pounce-on-trey-lance-at-no-3
SI Albert Breer (7. Detroit Lions: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon: Sewell’s maturity has come into question as teams evaluate the 20-year-old, but his physical ability is undeniable. Sewell has All-Pro talent. And Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes come from places that weren’t shy about overinvesting in the line, so they’d figure it out with Sewell and Taylor Decker.) (3-25-21): https://www.si.com/nfl/2021/03/25/gameplan-nfl-mock-draft-trevor-lawrence-top-four-quarterbacks
NFL.com Brooks (7. Lions - WR Jaylen Waddle: The loss of Kenny Golladay makes finding a No. 1 receiver a top priority. Waddle is a game-breaker with the speed and explosiveness to create big plays in the passing game.) (3-23-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-jets-pass-on-qbs-in-favor-of-penei-sewell-a
CBS Fornelli (12. (Trade with SF) WR Devonta Smith: The Lions traded down and still end up getting one of the top receivers in this draft, something they sorely need after losing both Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones in free agency. I could write 1,500 words here on why I love Smith as a prospect, but I'll rein myself in and say that if you could draft Marvin Harrison with the No. 12 pick in the draft, you should probably do so.) (3-23-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-bears-washington-not-done-addressing-qb-niners-make-major-trade-with-lions/
ESPN’s Mel Kiper has the Detroit Lions trading back in most recent mock draft (7. WR Devonta Smith) (3-23-21): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/03/espns-mel-kiper-has-the-detroit-lions-taking-reigning-heisman-winner-in-latest-mock-draft.html
PFF Renner (7. DETROIT LIONS WR Ja'Marr Chase: Given Dan Campbell’s press conferences, one might think that they’ll be drafting only linebackers and fullbacks this year, but G.M. Brad Holmes has already shown that he knows where the game is won. Forget about the “tone-setters,” Chase plays a valuable position and is too special a talent to pass up here. 41. LB Zaven Collins. 72. CB Eric Stokes. 101. S TALANOA HUFANGA) (3-22-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-three-round-nfl-mock-draft-zach-wilson-jets-san-francisco-49ers-justin-fields
Touchdown wire Doug Farrar (7. Detroit Lions: QB Justin Fields) (3-20-21): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2021-nfl-mock-draft-russell-wilson-deshaun-watson-trade-seahawks-texans/
CBS Emory Hunt (7. WR Devonta Smith: I like what the Lions are building on their roster with new head coach Dan Campbell, both with on-field personnel and with their coaches. Landing the Heisman Trophy winner gives them a legit game-breaker on the perimeter.) (3-19-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-jets-take-justin-fields-bengals-protect-joe-burrow-lions-get-jared-goff-a-weapon/
Tankathon (7. WR Devonta Smith. 41. DE Carlos Basham. 72. S Richie Grant.) (3-18-21):
Radio.com (7. Detroit Lions - WR Devonta Smith) (3-15-21): https://www.radio.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/gallery/latest-nfl-mock-draft-kyle-pitts-zach-wilson
PFF Spielberger (7. DETROIT LIONS: WR JAYLEN WADDLE, ALABAMA: The decision to not use the franchise tag on WR Kenny Golladay makes this an obvious choice for Detroit, as they’re also set to lose Marvin Jones Jr. to free agency. Waddle steps in immediately as the WR1 in Detroit. The Alabama speedster was off to a remarkable start to the 2020 season, topping 120 receiving yards in all four games while averaging 22.3 yards per reception. Detroit and new head coach Dan Campbell, who has made it quite clear he wants tough players, will appreciate Waddle fighting his way back from what was supposed to be a season-ending ankle injury to play in the national championship game. He was clearly laboring in that game, but it was impressive that he was even out there.) (3-15-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-falcons-trade-trey-lance-jaylen-waddle-detroit-replace-kenny-golladay
MJD (7. WR Devonta Smith: Drafting the Heisman Trophy winner is a great starting point to get the Lions back on track.) (3-9-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/maurice-jones-drew-2021-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-three-rbs-picked-in-round-1
PFN Tony Pauline (7. Detroit Lions - WR Devonta Smith: The Lions have had a splendid offseason and the league year hasn’t even begun. They need a receiver, and DeVonta Smith offers the least amount of downside at this point.) (3-9-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2021-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-pauline-march/
PFF Galina (7. DETROIT LIONS: WR DEVONTA SMITH, ALABAMA: It looks like the Lions will have an entirely new receiving corps next season, and if they want Jared Goff to have any type of success, they’ll need a playmaker to join him. A lot of Goff's yards in L.A. came underneath on option routes to Cooper Kupp, so finding someone who can get open quickly and then make plays after the catch is important. Enter DeVonta Smith. Key Change: Lions receivers graded out to 51.7 on throws behind the line of scrimmage last season, 24th in the league. Smith’s grade was 88.2 on those same throws last year.) (3-8-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-qb-justin-fields-lands-with-the-jets-at-no-2-falcons-select-florida-te-kyle-pitts-at-no-4
CBS Benjamin (7. LB Micah Parsons: A receiver makes sense, especially if/when Kenny Golladay departs. But Dan Campbell is going to have a hard time passing on a tough, athletic defender like Parsons. He'd help reshape a defense desperately in need of a new leader.) (3-2-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2021-nfl-mock-draft-eagles-patriots-trade-up-for-qbs-panthers-get-deshaun-watson-bears-add-sam-darnold/
PFF Eager and Chahrouri (7. DETROIT LIONS: WR JAYLEN WADDLE, ALABAMA - EE: Many people think Waddle is a better prospect than DeVonta Smith, and while Waddle was spectacular at Alabama prior to injury, Smith does have the highest projected yards per target in his class. That said, Waddle’s statistical comps include Stefon Diggs, Sterling Shepard and Tyler Boyd — all very productive players. The Lions, with their top three receivers heading to unrestricted free agency, need to give new quarterback Jared Goff and his eventual successor weapons to work with in what is soon to be a wide-open NFC North.) (3-1-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-carolina-panthers-byu-zach-wilson-trade-lsu-jamarr-chase-atlanta-falcons
MLive Ben Raven (7. Detroit Lions -- Alabama WR DeVonta Smith: The choice between DeVonta Smith and Alabama teammate Jaylen Waddle was more agonizing than expected. Smith enters the draft after turning in one of the most productive seasons ever for a college receiver. The Heisman winner caught 117 passes for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns. He torched Ohio State to the tune of 12 catches for 215 yards and three scores in two quarters in the CFP championship. He’s listed at 6-foot-1 but only 175 pounds. It’s worth noting there have been only two wideouts taller than 6-foot and lighter than 180 pounds drafted since 2000. Smith did a little bit of everything, dominating defenders in press coverage while getting it done on slants, bubbles or tight-window situations. He dropped five passes on 189 catchable targets over the previous two seasons per PFF. His in-air awareness is impressive, with Smith regularly working magic along the sidelines or back of the end zone. Smith is a playmaker with top-flight athleticism, something the Lions desperately need. Quintez Cephus and Geronimo Allison are the only two Lions receivers under contract, so there’s no time to get overly picky with a potentially elite wideout. His game has been compared to a combination of Calvin Ridley and Marvin Harrison, which is very hard to forget or unsee when watching his tape.) (2-26-21): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/02/ben-ravens-2021-nfl-mock-draft-10-detroit-lions-select-reigning-heisman-winner-at-pick-7.html
NFL.com Casserly (7. LB Micah Parsons: The Lions are in desperate need of talent throughout the roster. They take the best defensive player in the draft here -- if they don't trade back.) (2-25-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/charley-casserly-2021-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-justin-fields-slides-to-steelers
MLive Meinke (7. Detroit Lions: Alabama WR Ja’Marr Chase: Yes, a first-round receiver for the Detroit Lions. And before you make your dumb jokes about the Lions always drafting receivers in the first round, please remember they haven’t actually done it since taking Calvin Johnson second overall all the way back in 2007. They’ve still managed to field one of the better receiver corps for years, thanks in part to hitting on guys like Kenny Golladay in the draft and Golden Tate and Marvin Jones in free agency. But Tate is long gone, Jones is about to join him and Golladay can become a free agent in a matter of weeks. When the only receivers you have under contract are named Quintez Cephus and Geronimo Allison, you have a need at the position regardless of what happens. Want to save Jared Goff’s career? Cool. But he’s going to need people to help him do it, and Chase has the talent to do just that. Yes, the defense needs repairs all over the place. But this draft is top-heavy with offensive playmakers, and the Lions need a few of those too.) (2-24-21): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/02/kyle-meinkes-2021-nfl-mock-draft-10-lions-land-offensive-playmaker.html
PFN's Cummings 3-Round 2021 NFL Mock Draft (7. WR Ja'Marr Chase: The Lions might end up franchise-tagging high-priority free agent wide receiver Kenny Golladay. However, even if they do, they’ll still be sporting a receiving corps that is impossibly barren. Currently, only Geronimo Allison and Quintez Cephus remain under contract from 2020. Golladay undoubtedly makes that unit much better, but the complementary addition of Ja’Marr Chase could take things one step further and turn it into a strength. Chase is a dense, ultra-competitive receiving threat with good speed, excellent vertical ability, and the sheer alpha mentality to consistently convert in contested situations. Opinions vary a bit more widely on Chase, but his pure instincts for catching the football are at the top of his class. He also has enough route-running ability and YAC ability to be a complete starter. Across from Golladay, Chase’s presence may spawn slogans reminiscent of a law firm: “Golladay and Chase: A duo you can trust.” 41. LB Nick Bolton. 72. DT Jay Tufele. 88. LB Pete Werner) (2-22-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2021-nfl-mock-draft-3-round-cummings-february/4/
PFF Treash (7. DETROIT LIONS: LB Micah Parsons: Detroit’s defense was brutal across the board in 2020, and adding Parsons — the best off-ball linebacker prospect since Luke Kuechly — would certainly help the team get that side of the ball out of the liability tier. Parsons opted out of the 2020 season and didn’t play a down all year, but he was the highest-graded player at the position (91.6) the year prior. He shined in nearly every facet with a 94.8 run-defense grade, 26 pressures on 94 rushes and just six missed tackles on 111 attempts. The only knock is the subpar ball production (four pass breakups in two years), but the combination of power, explosiveness and overall athleticism for a human his size, along with the standout tackling, blitzing prowess and instinctual play, makes him a rare prospect that Brian Flores would covet. 41. S Ar'Darius Washington: Detroit needs more playmakers in its secondary, and that’s precisely what Washington will provide. Look past his 5-foot-8 stature; there isn’t a more instinctual safety in this entire class than him. Washington also possesses elite change-of-direction ability and strength that is almost hard to believe. Weighing in at under 180 pounds, he can still bench 370 pounds and squat 640 pounds. That landed him on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks” list last summer. With the help of his many top-notch traits, Washington generated a top-three coverage grade among FBS safeties in each of the past two years.) (2-22-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-dolphins-select-qb-justin-fields-with-pick-no-3-49ers-send-pick-no-12-to-miami-for-qb-tua-tagovailoa
NFL.com Daniel Jeremiah (7. LB Micah Parsons: The Super Bowl showed us what speed and athleticism at the second level can do for a defense. Parsons brings those tools to Detroit.) (2-16-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-saints-select-drew-brees-heir-apparent
PFF Linsey (7. DETROIT LIONS: QB TREY LANCE, NORTH DAKOTA STATE: The Lions took back Jared Goff as part of the Matthew Stafford trade, but it’s unlikely that he is the Lions’ preferred long-term answer at the quarterback position. At the very least, he isn’t a reason to avoid taking a quarterback like Lance here in the draft. There is legitimate concern surrounding Lance's accuracy and experience, especially since he's played just one season as a starter in the FCS, but he also has absurd arm talent and gives any team the option to lean on him in the running game. It’s a bet worth taking for Detroit as they look toward life without Stafford.) (2-1-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-new-york-jets-acquire-deshaun-watson-zach-wilson-lands-with-the-houston-texans-at-no-2-overall
FTW (TRADE! 4. Detroit Lions (via Atlanta Falcons (4-12)): Zach Wilson, QB, BYU - What would the trade look like? The Lions give up No. 7 overall and the Rams’ 2022 first round pick, a product of the Stafford deal. The Lions have ample draft assets after trading away Stafford. That allows them to attack (and, if it’s what you’re into, bite the kneecaps off) the draft board to land a top quarterback. Goff is a fine short-term starter, but it’s hard to imagine he’ll thrive in Detroit after looking below average under an offensive genius, Sean McVay. The Lions should stay aggressive in targeting a quarterback. Wilson’s status as a one-hit wonder should be somewhat concerning. You can talk all you want about how this kid eats, sleeps, breathes, inhales, exhales and farts football. He’s had just one year of elite production. But that won’t matter to the Lions. Let’s pair Wilson with another Football Guy, Dan Campbell.) (2-1-21): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-2021-mock-draft-deshaun-watson-matthew-stafford-trades
PFF Palazzolo (7. DETROIT LIONS: QB TREY LANCE, NORTH DAKOTA STATE: With the news that QB Matthew Stafford will not be returning to Detroit and new head coach Dan Campbell recently signed a six-year contract, the Lions are in full rebuild mode. Lance is the best option for that scenario; he’s as talented as it gets, but time is likely needed given that he has just one full year of experience at the FCS level. Lance graded at 90.7 as a redshirt freshman in 2019 before a mediocre “showcase” game in 2020. He has a cannon and rushing ability to tap into, while the Lions have the time to allow Lance to reach his potential.) (1-25-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-mock-draft-new-york-jets-qb-zach-wilson-cincinnati-bengals-wr-jamarr-chase
USA Today Middle-Hurst Schwartz (7. Lions — Micah Parsons, LB, PSU: Where does Detroit start with overhauling a defense that ranked last in yards and points allowed? Given the Lions' modest cap space before addressing wide receiver Kenny Golladay, investing early and often in the draft has to be a priority. Parsons has a strong claim to the title of the draft's most explosive defender, and he's a standout in almost any assignment.) (1-5-21): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2021/01/05/nfl-mock-draft-2021-justin-fields-trevor-lawrence-first-round/4137849001/
NFL RealGM (11. Detroit Lions: Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State. If the new regime wants to hedge their bets away from Matthew Stafford long-term, taking a developmental project like Lance here makes sense. Lance has arm strength to spare but his accuracy and ability to read the field need ample work before he’s ready to play in the NFL.) (12-23-20): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3334/2021-NFL-Mock-Draft-Christmas-Edition
Round 1 Picks (29 WR, 7 LB, 6 QB, 5 OT, 1 CB, 1 TE):
12 WR Devonta Smith
11 WR Jaylen Waddle
7 LB Micah Parsons
6 WR Ja'Marr Chase
3 QB Trey Lance
2 OT Rashawn Slater
2 QB Justin Fields
2 OT Penei Sewell
1 QB Zach Wilson
1 TE Kyle Pitts
1 OT Alijah Vera-Tucker
1 DE Kwity Paye
Round 2 Picks (6 LB, 3 CB, 3 DE, 2 S, 1 DT):
3 LB Nick Bolton
2 LB Zaven Collins
2 DE Carlos Basham
1 DE Jaelan Phillips
1 LB Jabril Cox
1 S Ar'Darius Washington
1 S Jevon Holland
1 DT Levi Onwuzurike
1 CB Asante Samuel
1 CB Kelvin Joseph
1 CB Tyson Campbell
Round 3 72: (2 CB, 2 S, 2 DT, 1 WR, 1 DE, 1 QB):
2 S Richie Grant
1 DT Marvin Wilson
1 DE Patrick Jones
1 DT Jay Tufele
1 WR Rondale Moore
1 CB Rodarius Williams
1 CB Eric Stokes
1 QB Davis Mills
Round 3 88 (2 S, 2 DT, 1 LB, 1 WR, 1 CB, 1 OT):
1 LB Pete Werner
1 S Talanoa Hufanga
1 S Jamar Johnson
1 WR Tylan Wallace
1 CB Benjamin St. Juste
1 DT Darius Stills
1 DT Tyler Shelvin
1 OT Spencer Brown
Round 4 (1 QB, 1 WR, 1 S, 1 OT):
1 OT Austin Deculus
1 QB Kellen Mond
1 S Ar'Darius Washington
1 WR Shi Smith
Round 5 (1 S, 1 CB):
1 CB Darren Hall
1 S Divine Deablo
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