Sunday, December 11, 2022

2023 Mock Draft Round Up #9

PFN Hodgkinson (4. Detroit Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  As Mariah Carey famously sang, “Make my wish come true, all I want for Christmas is a 6’3″, 310-pound defensive tackle with elite athleticism weaponized by high-level technical ability and incredible physical tools.”  15. QB CJ Stroud: Given the recent comparisons to Jared Goff, Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud gets a particularly apt landing spot in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. There have been some tough games this season for the young Buckeye, but there’s no denying that Stroud’s arm talent, accuracy, and NFL size are all alluring.  Stroud is the toy that you want, while Goff is the alternative that your parent assures you that you already have at home. The Ohio State QB can take this Lions team somewhere that Goff simply cannot — a Super Bowl.  45. LB Henry To’oTo’o, LB:  The Lions found a late-round LB gem in Malcolm “Rodrigo” Rodriguez last year, but don’t leave it so long to find him a partner in crime in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Alabama’s Henry To’oTo’o offers Detroit an instinctual player with a high football IQ, physicality, and the attributes to be a high-level run defender at a significant position of need.  61. Detroit Lions (From MIN): Jordan Battle, S, Alabama61. CB Garrett Williams:  Cornerback promises to be one of the Lions’ top needs in the 2023 NFL Draft, and in this mock, they land a top talent at the position. Garrett Williams has been the standout player of Syracuse’s defense for the past two seasons, with his blend of coverage capability and run-game physicality. He’s fast, fluid, and flows to the football with ferocity.  76. WR A.T. Perry:  At 6’5″, Wake Forest WR A.T. Perry adds a tall, jump-ball receiver for Stroud to aim at from this 2023 NFL Draft. Don’t be fooled into thinking that is all Perry offers, however, as the Demon Deacon dynamo has a twitchiness that leads to effortless separation.  146. Will McDonald IV, EDGE, Iowa State.  167.  Kenny Logan Jr., S, Kansas.  177.  Mark Evans II, OT, Arkansas Pine-Bluff) (12-10-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-youngs-poise-and-professionalism-puts-him-in-pole-position-for-the-first-overall-pick/

PFN Broback (4. C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State:  Make no mistake about it, C.J. Stroud is still in the QB1 conversation. While the focus shifted to Young, Stroud remains a strong candidate to be the top pick too. As Ohio State snuck into the College Football Playoff, Stroud finds new opportunities to shine. He’ll face an elite Georgia defense, and a strong performance could change the QB1 conversation. Stroud has the tools and frame to be the best QB prospect in the class, and Detroit’s not going to wait this time to draft him in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.  15. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: Jeff Okudah could use some help. Detroit’s already seeing Dan Campbell’s plan working this year, but they need some more talent to keep this team on the rise. Teams can afford to avoid Okudah’s side this year, so the Lions would like to challenge that thought process more next year. Christian Gonzalez made a great decision by transferring to Oregon. His development took off, and he finds himself on a great trajectory. His 6’2″ frame gives him good length to make plays on the football. There are some aspects Gonzalez must iron out, but again, he’s on the right path to giving Detroit two great corners.) (12-9-22):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bijan-robinson-lamar-jackson-join-forces/

Walter football Charlie (4.  RB Bijan Robinson:  Under Brad Holmes, the Lions have taken elite talents and not reached for need. Hence, I could see them passing on Will Levis and taking one of the best players in the 2023 NFL Draft, like Robinson. D'Andre Swift is a talented back, but he is utterly incapable of staying healthy and handling a big work load. Swift is not worthy of a big extension. Jamaal Williams is also a free agent after this season. Here's a running back who has the potential to become a Lions legend who reminds their fanbase of the Barry Sanders days.  In 2022, Robinson has averaged 6.1 yards per carry for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also has 19 receptions for 314 yards and two scores. The junior had a painful overtime fumble against Texas Tech. Robinson was one of the best players in college football in 2021, producing a superb season for Texas. The sophomore averaged 5.8 yards per carry that season for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also took 26 receptions for 295 yards and four scores. In 2020, Robinson flashed his big-time skill set with 703 yards on only 86 carries - 8.2 average - and four touchdowns. He notched 15 catches for 196 yards and two scores that season. The 6-foot, 214-pound Robinson has power, speed, cutting ability, and natural instincts as a runner. Team sources also say he possesses outstanding character.  15.  CB Joey Porter Jr.:  The Lions need a lot of help in the secondary. They need two cornerbacks to go with Jeff Okudah. Here's a big press-man corner to help them.  Overall, Porter was steady coverage in 2022 while recording 27 tackles and seven passes broken up. However, he really did not provide any big plays and did not record an interception. Porter rotated in as freshman in 2020 and had a quality debut. In 2021, he collected 51 tackles, one interception, four passes broken up and one forced fumble. The son of legendary Steelers linebacker Joey Porter, Joey Porter Jr., has an NFL pedigree. The 6-foot-2, 192-pounder possesses excellent size and the upside to become an impactful player. Porter has freakishly long arms, which makes him a superb fit for press-man corner to take on big receivers.  45. DE Will McDonald:  The Lions grab an edge rusher to go with Aidan Hutchinson.  McDonald has 30 tackles, four sacks and a pass batted thus far this season. He totaled 36 tackles, 11.5 sacks, five forced fumbles and three passes batted in 2021. McDonald recorded 10.5 sacks and 33 tackles in 2020 after recording six sacks in 2019.  Team sources rave about McDonald's pass-rush ability, and his natural skills at getting after the quarterback. He is fast and athletic, allowing him to shoot past blockers and put steady heat on the signal-caller. NFL teams, however, say McDonald (6-4, 245) is terrible versus the run and even bad opponents can destroy him in the ground game. Hence, he might be more of a designated pass rusher as a pro.  61. CB Mekhi Garner:  The Lions need a lot of help in the secondary. They could use at least two cornerback additions to go with Jeff Okudah.  Garner has enjoyed a solid senior year to help his draft hopes even though he has not recorded an interception and only has three passes broken up. In 2022, he has 43 tackles and four passes defended. However, NFL teams like that Garner (6-2, 217) is big and a pretty good mover for his size. He is physical, has decent instincts, and runs well for his size. Like many big cornerbacks, Garner is not overly sudden or explosive, but he could be an outside starter in the pros. Garner looks like a potential second-day pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (12-9-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023charlie.php

CBS Edwards (4. QB CJ Stroud:  It would be fitting for the Matthew Stafford trade to come full circle with Detroit using a pick from the Rams to select its potential franchise quarterback.  15. TE Darnell Washington:  Detroit selected Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud with the first of two first-round picks. Stroud was accustomed to having premium outlets in Columbus, so the Lions make him feel at home, adding Washington with wide receivers Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown.) (12-9-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anthony-richardson-fourth-qb-to-go-in-top-10-aaron-rodgers-gets-a-weapon/

Draft wire (4. C.J. Stroud:  Jared Goff isn’t a problem or anything, but he’s also not a long-term solution for the Lions. If they luck out and get a top-five pick from the Rams, this scenario would give them the perfect opportunity to land their quarterback of the future in Stroud.  15.  CB Brian Branch:  Detroit’s corner play on the outside has been a pleasant surprise so far this season, but they could still use a hybrid defender with the versatility to line up in the slot or at either safety spot. Branch is the perfect fit, having handled a similar role in Nick Saban’s defense with great success.  45. LB Noah Sewell  61. DT Keeanu Benton) (12-8-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson-will-levis-hendon-hooker-bowl-games-2-rounds/

FTW D'Andrea (3.  QB CJ Stroud. Ohio State (Team needs: QB, CB, S, LB, DT): Stroud is a blue chip talent whose improvisational skills can’t match up to Young’s. He’s been buoyed by elite wideouts at Ohio State, but in this situation he’d get to play with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, among others, who are capable of keeping him in butter brickle. If nothing else he can be a big-armed pocket passer capable of creating a clear upgrade over Jared Goff and becoming a Matthew Stafford-esque presence for the Lions’ offense.  15.  CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon (Team needs: QB, CB, S, LB, DT):  In my last mock draft, the Lions had the top overall pick. Now they clock in at 15th. Hats off to Dan Campbell for wringing the most out of this team, even if his defense is a sad slurry of busted coverages.  Gonzalez is here to help with that, even if Detroit’s newfound success likely takes it out of the running for a top-two cornerback prospect. The Colorado transfer was a breakout star in his lone season in Oregon, recording four interceptions and 50 tackles to show off a well-rounded game. He’s 6-foot-2 and fast as hell, too. When he runs a 4.3-second 40 at next year’s Draft Combine he’s going to invite plenty of comparisons to one of 2022’s rookie studs, Seattle cornerback Tariq Woolen.) (12-8-22):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-2023-bryce-young-jalen-carter-quentin-johnston

Fox sports Rang (4. DE Tyree Wilson:  Yes, the Lions could select a quarterback here. But with the team playing better recently with veteran Jared Goff and an effective running game, adding even more firepower to a good young defensive lines just feels like the route head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes want to take. The 6-foot-6, 275-pound Wilson doesn't yet get the national acclaim of some of his peers in this defensive line class but his length, power and upside are exciting and could remind longtime Lions fans of another surprise top-five pick years ago: Ziggy Ansah.  15.  TE Michael Mayer:   T.J. Hockenson was dealt to Minnesota just before the trade deadline, and the Lions could use a bigger, stronger replacement, especially as the team adopts a run-heavy attack.) (12-8-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-goes-first-but-strong-dl-class-stands-out

Touchdown wire Farrar (4. Detroit Lions (from Los Angeles Rams): C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State.  15. TE Michael Mayer) (12-7-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-jalen-carter-will-anderson-c-j-stroud/

Walter Football (3.  C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State Ohio State:  The Lions must improve their defense, but they won't be able to resist adding a franchise quarterback to replace Jared Goff. They would've had interest in Baker Mayfield had he hit the open market, so they're definitely looking to find a quarterback upgrade.  C.J. Stroud completed 71 percent of his passes this past season. He's a lethal passer and can run if he needs to with his 4.65 speed.  15. S Antonio Johnson:  The Lions must address their secondary if they ever want to stop the pass.  Antonio Johnson is a huge 6-3 cornerback who performed at a high level this past season  43. Quan Martin, CB/S:  The Lions could stand to double up on cornerbacks, given how bad they are against the pass.  Quan Martin is a smooth athlete who can play anywhere in the secondary.  61. DT Tyler Davis:  The Lions desperately need to improve their ability to stop the run.  Tyler Davis doesn't have great upside, but he's been a disruptive force in the interior of the defensive line.) (12-7-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023.php

CBS Trapasso (3. CJ Stroud:  The Lions get their quarterback of the future with a pick received in the Matthew Stafford deal from 2021. CB Brian BranchAfter grabbing Stroud in the top 5, the Lions get the future quarterback of the defense who can play safety or man up in the slot.) (12-7-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-lions-add-c-j-stroud-plus-top-defensive-back-bills-pick-jaxon-smith-njigba/

Draft Network Parson (4. DT Jalen Carter:  The Rams are far worse than anyone could have imagined. As a result, the Lions are the beneficiaries with a top-five pick in this NFL mock draft. Aidan Hutchinson has been impactful as a rookie on this defense. Now imagine him rushing off the edges with Jalen Carter generating interior pressure on passing downs. Carter has an unreal blend of size, athleticism, arm length, and physical strength. He is a monster in the middle and will help bring the ROAR back to the Lions’ defense!  15.  DE Jared Verse:  What a defensive facelift the Lions have undergone with this NFL mock draft. Carter was added to dominate on the interior and now adding Jared Verse should excite Lions’ fans. Verse plays with good leverage and understands how to win the edge. He is a tough and gritty player. A defensive front with Carter, Hutchinson, and Verse sounds like a heavenly trio for Detroit.  46. CB Emmanuel Forbes:  Jeff Okudah returned to health this season and has looked the part. Problem is, there is not a consistent cornerback to pair him with on the roster. Emmanuel Forbes has tremendous ball skills and instincts to generate turnovers for points. This is a nice pairing of two young corners in this NFL mock draft.  62. TE Tucker Kraft:  The Lions traded T.J. Hockenson to their divisional foe in Minnesota. Tucker Kraft could step into this offense and bring a talented pass-catcher that does not mind blocking in the run game.) (12-6-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-will-levis-qb1/

CBS Wilson (4. DE Myles Murphy:  Murphy won't be 21 until next spring and while we'd like to see him play with more consistency ... he won't be 21 until next spring. On top of that, when he's on, he's hard to stop, which makes him such an interesting prospect.  13. WR Jordan Addison: Addison isn't a big target, but he's one of the most dynamic players in the country who can line up anywhere. Plus, there's always room for a shifty, yards-after-the-catch machine, especially since D.J. Chark is on a one-year deal. QB was a consideration here, but is Will Levis an upgrade over Jared Goff, who is just 28 and has two years left on his contract?) (12-5-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-13-grades-cowboys-earn-an-a-for-routing-colts-eagles-get-an-a-for-destroying-titans/

Tankathon (3. QB Will Levis.  13. CB Cam Smith.  46.  LB Drew Sanders.  62. S Jordan Battle.  77.  TE Dalton Kincaid) (12-5-22):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft

PFN Cummings (3. Detroit Lions: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama:  Jared Goff has been efficient for Detroit this year. But in a league ruled by elite traits at QB, the Lions shouldn’t pass up an opportunity to upgrade. Bryce Young‘s elite creation capacity is something Detroit is sorely lacking right now, and Young’s “it” factor can bring the offense into its final evolution.  13.  CB Kelee Ringo:  In need of CB talent, the Lions manage to land one of the top cornerbacks in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Kelee Ringo may need to cut weight a bit at the next level to maximize his transition speed, but he’s a rare size-speed defender with willing physicality and smooth ball-tracking ability.  43.  Detroit Lions: Antonio Johnson, DB, Texas A&M:
A rocky season as a whole may bump a few Aggies down the 2023 NFL Draft Board, but Antonio Johnson still provided flashes of the talent that landed him in early first-round mocks. For Detroit, he’s an able big-slot with rare potential at 6’3″, 200 pounds.  61.  Detroit Lions (From MIN): Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Having traded T.J. Hockenson to the Vikings, the Lions need to re-up at tight end. Lions fans can take refuge in the fact that there are no first-round TEs in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. In Round 2, Dalton Kincaid suffices with his size and body control.  74.  Detroit Lions, Rome Odunze, WR, Washington:  Rome Odunze may return to school, but if he declares, he’s worth an early-round pick with his athleticism and three-level ability.  140. Detroit Lions
Viliami Fehoko, DL, San Jose State.  166. Detroit Lions Karl Brooks, DT, Bowling Green.  176 Detroit Lions

SN (3.  Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (6-3, 310 pounds):  After landing Aidan Hutchinson for the edge of their front four in the 2022 draft, the Lions should keep beefing things up with the most impact defender available to create a devastating young upfield trio along with Hutchinson and Alim McNeill. Carter can do everything as an absolute disruptor.  13.  Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame (6-4, 257 pounds):  The Lions can be content tabling QB and going with Jared Goff one more season if it means assembling a dominant front. Foskey, the Fighting Irish's all-time sack leader, is another high-energy producer to put opposite Hutchinson.) (12-2-22):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-texans-lions-seahawks-eagles/bnsiasvmrdv4iv1rnzywbvw7

Draft Tek (5. DE Myles Murphy:  The Detroit Lions have showed a spark of life in recent weeks, winning three straight and then hanging tough in a narrow loss to the Bills on Thanksgiving. It's still clear, though, that the defense and the pass rush need some talent upgrades before Dan Campbell's try-hard guys can get over the hump. The Rams coming completely undone is making the first round pick they sent out in the Matt Stafford trade a bigger and bigger prize for Detroit. If it gets into the first three slots, look for Detroit to take one of the top two QBs. If not, a beast Edge like Clemson's Myles Murphy could be too tantalizing to pass up.  After building a top-flight offensive line with three first rounders, the Lions could bookend the versatile Aidan Hutchinson with the toolsy Murphy to create a menacing defensive front. Murphy has the size and speed to merit comparisons to Chase Young. At 6-5 and 275, he runs a sub-4.6 40. His spin move is NFL-ready and he has the bend and power to give O Tackles nightmares.--Jud Branam, Lions Analyst  11. LB Noah Sewell:  Coach Dan Campbell's folksy style has created a bit of a family atmosphere around the Detroit Lions, but the team can take it to the next level by adding Oregon LB Noah Sewell to their defensive overhaul. His brother Penei is a stellar OT for the team, and the two previously played together in college. Both brothers have a compelling mix of strength, athleticism and feel for the game, making it look easy while contributing heavily to their team's success.  A punishing hitter, Sewell has a nose for the ball and a knack for getting to the QB. He starred at running back in high school, so he would fit into the gadget-and-go-for-it approach Campbell loves. The Lions need major talent upgrades at linebacker, and they have and value a close-knit locker room. Sewell hasn't shown the pass-coverage chops of some other linebackers, notably Trenton Simpson, but he has the physical talent and his cultural fit in Detroit would be superb. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst  42. CB Emmanuel Forbes.  60. LB Owen Pappoe.  74. WR Cedric Tillman.  138. QB Grayson McCall. 162. TE Payne Durham.  170. OG Javion Cohen) (11-30-22):  https://www.drafttek.com/2023-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp

Draft Network Marino (3. DT Jalen Carter:  The Lions have some exciting young defensive talent and adding a talent like Jalen Carter to go with the likes of Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill would give the Lions one of most exciting young defensive lines in the league. Carter is a dynamic penetration-style player that has all the tools to be highly disruptive in the NFL  12. Cam Smith CB, South Carolina:  The Lions’ defense has displayed some growth of late but the cornerback position is one that needs an upgrade. Cam Smith is a versatile defender that can play zone and man coverage with impressive ball skills and a strong appetite to be physical and tackle. He would continue to add to the identity of players the Lions have been attracted to under Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell.) (11-29-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anderson-wilson-carter/

PFN Mellor (3. DE Will Anderson:  The best player in the 2023 NFL Draft happens to fall to the Detroit Lions — Will Anderson Jr. is too good to pass up here. Grabbing an edge defender isn’t necessarily the top priority. Nonetheless, with two first-round picks, you can grab the best player available here when it’s Anderson.  He’s a dominant pass rusher with an array of elite pass-rushing moves. Anderson wins with speed and the proverbial bend, while possessing more than enough strength and versatility to justify being the first overall pick in this draft, let alone the third.  20. Detroit Lions (from LAR): BJ Ojulari, EDGE, LSU:  13.  Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida:  There is a lot to love about Anthony Richardson as a professional quarterback. But there is a lot to grow and develop. The Detroit Lions can afford to take the chance with their second of two first-round picks on the 6’4″, 238-pound speedster with a rocket for an arm.  Richardson has shown struggles with ball placement on second- and third-read throws. He’s also been slow to find his progressive-read throws. However, there is no denying that he has elite arm talent and may be the fastest player on the field, no matter what level he’s in.  Richardson has severe boom-or-bust potential, but if he does boom, he’s a perennial All-Pro-type player.) (11-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-carolina-trades-up-for-cj-stroud/

SI Ric Serritella (6. Detroit Lions (via LAR): Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia:  The secondary hasn’t been the most dependable unit and Detroit needs to find themselves a shutdown corner to combat the likes of Justin Jefferson within their division, especially since 2020 first-round pick (third overall) Jeff Okudah has struggled mightily to stay healthy. Ringo has shown the ability to match up with anyone and everyone who lines up across from him. 13. Detroit Lions: O’Cyrus Torrence, OG, Florida:  Despite a revolving door at the guard position this season, the Lions have had one of the best offensive line units in the NFL. Adding Torrence to the mix would provide an immediate plug-and-play starter who would help this franchise continue to build in the trenches. Torrence has yet to allow a sack during his collegiate career, making nearly 50 starts with the Gators and would make an area of strength even stronger.) (11-28-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-thanksgiving-extravaganza

PFN Fragoza (6.  Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson:  At 6’5″ and 300 pounds, Bryan Bresee is built like a defensive end. Yet, he is an elite penetrator from the interior, with only injuries stunting his growth at Clemson. The Lions have a strong core — all they need to do is add to it while waiting for their future QB1.  13. Cam Smith, CB, South CarolinaCam Smith may not be Jaycee Horn, as some helmet scouts have said since last season, but he is a talented corner in his own right. QBs are ignoring his side of the field, and if they don’t, he makes them pay with twitchy movements and emphatic displays of coverage.  44. Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU:  Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Kayshon Boutte was my WR1 heading into the year, and I never would’ve thought I’d have him falling to 44th in a 2023 NFL Mock Draft. But here we are. Boutte has all the makings of a No. 1 receiver: size, speed, explosiveness.  Yet, he’s plummeted down draft boards this season, and his antics earlier in the year could’ve done irreparable damage.   61.  Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  After trading away T.J. Hockenson, the Lions have shoes to fill at tight end. Dalton Kincaid can do just that as one of the best pass-catching TEs in the 2023 class. His receiver background is plain to see in his smoothness running routes and hauling in passes.  76.  LaDarius Henderson, G, Arizona State:  PFN Draft Analyst summed up LaDarius Henderson‘s scouting report perfectly: “No guard in the 2023 NFL Draft class has the full combination of physical tools that Henderson has.”) (11-28-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-cyber-monday-deals-on-blake-corum-bo-nix/

Draft Network Crabbs (6. DT Jalen Carter:  The Lions hit with their 2022 addition to the defensive front in Aidan Hutchinson, but he’s going to need some more help for this Lions’ defense to turn things around. How about a freakish hybrid player that could play all over the front to pair with Hutchinson and help carve out a clear identity for the Lions up front, much like they already have on offense?  13. Joey Porter Jr. CB, Penn StateThe Lions already snagged an interior defender earlier in this NFL mock draft with Carter, but now they get a chance to grab an elite athlete on the perimeter to help this defense out. Joey Porter Jr. has the length, physicality, and man cover skills to pair with Jeff Okudah to give the Lions a duo on the back end to go with their new duo on the front end.) (11-23-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anderson-bresee-carter-wilson/

SI NFL Draft Bible (6. Detroit Lions (via LAR): QB Will Levis, Kentucky:  "Levis gets rid of the ball in a hurry, and it's the high-octane scheme that you see many NFL teams attempting to mimic. You can tell that Levis puts in the time, he works on his mechanics, he possesses great footwork, and his fakes are carried out with emphasis so that attention to detail is what you want to see from a franchise signal-caller."  13. Detroit Lions: S Brian Branch, Alabama:  "Brian Branch has the athleticism, instincts, and physicality to play any defensive back position in the league. He should start as a rookie and can develop into a stellar defensive chess piece, and he can at least be an elite special teamer.") (11-21-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-quarterbacks-go-quick

PFF Renner and Sikkema (8.  DT Bryan Bresee, CLEMSON (Big board rank: 6.  Stats to know through Week 11 - 67.1 PFF grade, 76.0 pass-rush grade, 14 total pressures):  “This dude's a former No. 1 overall recruit for a reason — it's because his athleticism is off the charts. He's 6-foot-5, 305 to 310 pounds, and he can explode from a three-tech position.” — Trevor Sikkema.  11. DETROIT LIONS: EDGE MYLES MURPHY, CLEMSON (Big board rank: 8.  Stats to know through Week 11 - 78.9 PFF grade, 79.4 pass-rush grade, 21 total pressures):  “Murphy is very much this year's Travon Walker in that every box, physically, he is ticking. … He is that level of explosion where it doesn't take too much in the way of technique, and the way of pass-rush moves to then become a massive impact player at the next level.” — Mike Renner) (11-18-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-mock-draft-top-20-bryce-young-houston-texans-cj-stroud-las-vegas-raiders

Foxsports McIntyre (1. Detroit Lions: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State:  Stroud checks all the boxes, but there's one that's out of his control: Ohio State QBs who dominate in the Big Ten haven't done the same in the NFL. A lot of people did say the same about Big 12 QBs before Patrick Mahomes hit the NFL like a comet.  14. Detroit Lions (via LA Rams): Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State:  Verse is a transfer from Albany, where he was the CAA Defensive Rookie of the Year. He has made a big impact for the Seminoles with 8.5 TFL and 4 sacks, including a monster effort against LSU (two sacks, 2.5 TFL). The Colts might be in for a massive overhaul this offseason — front office, coaches and players.):   https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-c-j-stroud-bryce-young-in-top-two-whos-next

SI NFL Draft Borowsky (1. Detroit Lions: QB Will Levis, Kentucky:  If Levis had the talent around him that Stroud and Young had, he'd be far and away the best quarterback in the country. Nevertheless, Levis possesses unbelievable tools, is pro-ready and has the moxie to help speed up Detroit's rebuild. He'd have a great offensive line, solid weapons and an established run game. Levis has the most upside out of any player in the class, so putting him in an offense like Detroit's will allow him to reach his potential.  13. Detroit Lions (Via LAR): LB Drew Sanders, Arkansas:  After taking a quarterback first overall, the Lions add to their weak linebacking group. Sanders is the best linebacker in the draft, with exceptional explosiveness and athleticism. He is just scratching the surface of what he can develop into, which is a pro bowl caliber player. He'd step in and be their best linebacker and most impactful defensive player.) (11-2-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-trade-deadline-mock

SI NFL Draft Eli Nachmany (
1. Detroit Lions — QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State
C.J. Stroud, Ohio State:  QB1 goes No. 1. If the Lions pick first, as it increasingly looks like they will, they probably have to take a quarterback. Jared Goff has not gotten the job done, and Detroit is not a winning team—let alone a playoff team—with him under center. (Moreover, Detroit can save a boatload of salary cap cash by moving on from Goff this offseason.) Stroud is the presumptive first-overall pick. He is a complete prospect who can make throws at all levels of the field. Stroud does not have to travel far from Columbus to Detroit; he could be the answer for the long-suffering Lions.  20. Detroit Lions (via Los Angeles Rams) — WR Kayshon Boutte, LSU:  With C.J. Stroud in tow, the Lions use their extra first-round pick to add a top weapon for their new franchise quarterback. Many considered Boutte an early first-round talent before the season got underway, but this year, the LSU standout got off to a slow start. Nevertheless, Boutte has serious talent and demonstrated that he could be a No. 1 wide receiver at the next level. A fearless pass catcher who is not afraid to go over the middle, Boutte runs great routes and wins matchups at the point of attack. He has also grown into a leader at LSU. He could still end up somewhere in the first round, despite a dip in production this year. In this mock draft, the Lions take a chance on Boutte.  33. Detroit Lions — CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia
Kelee Ringo:  Ringo falls out of the first round in this mock draft after a slow start to the year, but the Lions roll the dice on his sky-high potential.) (10-31-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-mock-draft-quarterback-quarterback-quarterback

Draft Network Sanchez (1. Detroit Lions
Bryce Young QB, Alabama:  The Lions’ biggest problems have been defensively, but Detroit can’t pass up on the opportunity to draft a franchise quarterback. Bryce Young is an instinctual player that constantly showcased the ability to make plays when things aren’t there. He is a great pick for a Lions franchise that is looking for their new face of the franchise QB.  13. Detroit Lions (via LAR) Henry To’o To’o LB, Alabama:  With their first pick in this NFL mock draft, they got their offensive leader. Now, they draft their defensive leader. The Lions’ LB corps needs to be upgraded. By drafting Henry To’o To’o, they are able to fill both voids form a positional perspective and a leadership perspective. To’o To’o is a sideline-to-sideline player that can consistently make plays.) (10-31-22):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-young-stroud-hooker/

Yahoo Charles McDonald (3. Detroit Lions - Alabama QB Bryce Young.  Jared Goff has had some nice moments for the Lions, but it’s time for them to get more dynamic at the position. Bryce Young has the tools to be that guy. Young already has experience throwing to former Alabama wide receiver Jameson Williams, so hopefully it would be a quick start for Young and the Lions.  22. Detroit Lions (via Los Angeles Rams)
South Carolina CB Cam Smith:  The Lions get a cornerback here to help shore up a pass defense that hasn’t been able to stop anyone this season.) (10-19-22):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-four-q-bs-go-in-the-first-round-but-which-ones-140050449.html

Round 1 Pick 1 (15 QB, 7 DT, 4 DE, 1 CB, 1 RB):

9 QB CJ Stroud
5 DT Jalen Carter
3 QB Bryce Young 
2 QB Will Levis
2 DT Bryan Bresee 
2 DE Myles Murphy  
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 DE Will Anderson
1 DE Tyree Wilson 
1 RB Bijan Robinson 

Round 1 Pick 2 (12 CB, 4 DE, 3 LB, 3 TE, 2 QB, 2 WR, 1 OG, 1 S):

4 CB Cam Smith
3 CB Brian Branch
2 DE Jared Verse
2 TE Michael Mayer 
2 CB Joey Porter
2 CB Christian Gonzalez 
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 TE Darnell Washington 
1 DE Myles Murphy
1 DE Isaiah Foskey
1 LB Drew Sanders
1 LB Henry To'o To'o 
1 LB Noah Sewell
1 QB CJ Stroud
1 QB Anthony Richardson 
1 WR Kayshon Boutte
1 WR Jordan Addison 
1 OG O’Cyrus Torrence
1 S Antonio Johnson 

Round 2 Pick 1 (4 CB, 3 LB, 1 S, 1 WR, 1 DE):

2 CB Emmanuel Forbes 
1 S Antonio Johnson 
1 DE Will McDonald 
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 LB Henry To'oTo'o 
1 LB Drew Sanders
1 LB Noah Sewell
1 WR Kayshon Boutte 
1 CB Quan Martin

Round 2 Pick 2 (3 TE, 2 DT, 2 CB, 1 LB, 1 S ):

2 TE Dalton Kincaid
1 S Jordan Battle 
1 TE Tucker Kraft 
1 DT Keeanu Benton
1 DT Tyler Davis 
1 LB Owen Pappoe 
1 CB Mekhi Garner
1 CB Garrett Williams 

Round 3 (3 WR, 1 OG, 1 TE, 1 CB):

1 OG LaDarius Henderson 
1 WR Cedric Tillman
1 WR Rome Odunze
1 WR A.T. Perry
1 TE Dalton Kincaid 


Round 5 (2 DE, 1 QB):

1 QB Grayson McCall 
1 DE Viliami Fehoko
1 DE Will McDonald 

Round 6 Pick 1 (1 TE, 1 DT, 1 S):

1 TE Payne Durham 
1 DT Karl Brooks
1 S Kenny Logan

Round 6 Pick 2 (2 OG, 1 OT):

1 OG Javion Cohen 
1 OG Jerome Carvin
1 OT Mark Evans


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