PFN Fragoza (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Devon Witherspoon isn’t the fastest, strongest, or biggest in the 2023 class, but you know what he is? The best. He’s a day-one starter opposite Jeff Okudah, bolstering Detroit’s coverage unit behind a strong defensive line. 18. Calijah Kancey, DT: Undersized? Sure. Undervalued? Definitely. Underrated? NOT HERE. Calijah Kancey is the best defensive tackle, not named Jalen Carter. His ability to penetrate from the interior with a lightning-quick get-off is uncanny. 48. Detroit Lions: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas: An edge rusher-turned-off-ball-linebacker, Drew Sanders needs a scheme that will utilize his pass-rushing prowess. He can develop further as a run defender, but his range and fluidity buoy an exciting ceiling. 55. Detroit Lions (From MIN): Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia: Darnell Washington might end up a first-round pick when all is said and done. He’s already an outstanding blocker and has tremendous size at 6’7″ and 270 pounds. He’ll need work as a receiver, but his tape has flashes of contested catch and YAC ability. 81. Detroit Lions: Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Iowa State: Xavier Hutchinson doesn’t have a household name like others in the class, but he put on a show at the Senior Bowl.) (2-11-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-chiefs-and-eagles-extend-super-bowl-windows/
CBS Fornelli (6. DT Bryan Bresee: I love Bryan Bresee. There are injury concerns because of time missed while at Clemson, but while he may not have the ceiling of Jalen Carter, Bresee has an excellent chance of being a disruptive force on the interior. He's strong, big, moves quickly and seems to have a better understanding of the position already. 18. DE BJ Ojulari: Ojulari is a player who will likely have a much better NFL career than college. His entire time at LSU was spent with different defensive coordinators asking him to do different things, so he never had the chance to show what he could do. I see a lot of upside in Ojulari as a pass-rusher, and that's likely how he'll earn snaps early in his career. Playing alongside Aidan Hutchinson would speed up the process.) (2-11-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bears-trade-back-as-c-j-stroud-goes-no-1-bucs-stay-put-find-tom-brady-replacement/
Touchdown wire Farrar (6. CB Devon Witherspoon. 18. DT Bryan Bresee) (2-11-23): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-c-j-stroud-jalen-carter-will-levis/
NFL.com Freeland (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon has the highest ceiling and floor projection at corner in my model. His change-of-direction speed ranks in the top 10 percent of my 10-season sample. This metric helps predict how quickly prospects will have success in different coverages as they adapt to the pro game. 18. DE Nolan Smith: Complementing Aidan Hutchinson (after addressing corner at No. 6) with Smith, whose burst ranks in the top 15 percent at his position (when healthy), changes the math for the Lions the most entering 2023.) (2-10-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/cynthia-frelund-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-cowboys-take-rb-bijan-robinson
CBS Edwards (6. DE Tyree Wilson: With the No. 6 overall selection, Detroit takes a similar approach as Jacksonville a year ago. Travon Walker was taken No. 1 overall because of his potential. Tyree Wilson is an incredibly long pass rusher with the twitch to be special down the line. 18. CB Joey Porter: Pittsburgh left Joey Porter Jr. available to address the offensive line. Detroit responds by adding to the secondary. If you look around the league, most of the good teams are building depth in the secondary.) (2-9-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bears-trade-back-twice-as-two-afc-franchises-fight-to-secure-qbs-with-top-picks/
PFN Miller (9. Detroit Lions (From CAR): Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State: When the Jrs start popping up from the stars you watched as a child, it’s impossible not to feel old. Joey Porter Jr. makes me feel old. Porter is everything that NFL teams want in their cornerbacks. At 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, he’s the prototype. When we add in his outrageous athleticism, there’s nothing more a team could want. The Lions ran the fifth-most Cover 1 and Cover 3 in 2022. Porter is built to play as a deep third defender and one that can play man from depth or up close and personal. 18. Detroit Lions: Brian Branch, S, Alabama: For as long as I have breath in my lungs, I will lead the charge. Safeties matter so damn much to pass coverage at the NFL level these days. Teams continue to modernize their coverages and the match principles, so many teams are leaning towards making safeties that can cover an absolute necessity. Brian Branch hails from a Nick Saban system majoring in match Cover 3. If you’ll remember above, the Lions ran the fifth-most single-high looks in the NFL last season. But Branch will also bring an influx of physicality to the secondary on a defense that finished 27th in rushing EPA and 28th in success rate on defense. Detroit’s spent the last few years building in the trenches. Now they finish building their defense with high-end talent in the secondary.(2-9-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qb-bonanza-dominates-the-top-10/
CBS Trapasso (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon looks like a supreme athlete, and his 2022 film was squeaky clean. He could ascend to the first cornerback off the board in this class. 18. TE Michael Mayer: The Lions get an instant T.J. Hockenson replacement in Mayer, who joins a fun offense in Detroit.) (2-9-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-packers-aaron-rodgers-traded-to-raiders-steelers-select-very-familiar-name/
Draft Tek (6. DT Bryan Bresee: After he showed his skills with a series of shrewd picks in his first two drafts for the Lions, this year shapes up as a test of GM Brad Holmes' nerve. Pick 6 seems destined to fall just outside the toppermost tier of defenders in this year's crop, raising the spectre of a trade up to get into the Carter-Johnson range, or a trade down to build on the team's already impressive cache of draft picks. Another, more long-term play would be to grab a quarterback of the future in a Levis or Stroud even though Jared Goff is playing well at the moment. So much intrigue for a guy who really just needs to take a D tackle! If the Lions do address their needs in the inner trenches, Clemson's athletic Bryan Bresee figures to be the pick. While a polarizing prospect due to concerns over his pad level and lack of a clear bag of pass-rushing moves, Bresee is an athletic 305 pounds with prototypical size and length. If he moves beyond a string of college injuries and develops his skills, he could well be a better pro than collegian. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst. 18. LB Trenton Simpson: The Lions' defense was atrocious in the early stages of the 2022 season, then it ticked up to slightly above average during the team's 8-2 run to a 9-8 finish. Nonetheless, Year 3 of the current rebuild is the perfect moment for defensive talent infusions at all three levels. The linebacking corps is a case in point. Led by veteran overachiever Alex Anzalone, the group has several try-hard guys and Malcolm Rodriguez, a great find in the sixth round last year. It has no stars. Clemson's Trenton Simpson would bring a new vibe. He exudes athletic talent at all times, from his outstanding zone coverage to his 4.4 40 speed at a lean 240 pounds to his knack for getting to the passer via the edge rush. He's likely the only first-round LB in this year's draft, so lots of teams will have their sights on him come Draft Day. He brings a versatility and speed upgrade that will have his new NFL bosses drawing up schemes long before training camp. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst. 48. CB Kyu Blu Kelly. 55. LB Henry To'o To'o. 81. RB Jahmyr Gibbs. 152. WR Trey Palmer. 181. TE Will Mallory. 192. QB Clayton Tune) (2-9-23): https://www.drafttek.com/2023-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp
Walter Football (6. Tyree Wilson: The Lions must improve their defense, and that would entail obtaining some talent for the defensive line to complement Aidan Hutchinson on the edge. Tyree Wilson had a breakout '21 season in which he recorded seven sacks. He could fill out and become a five-technique in the NFL. 18. Christian Gonzalez, CB: The Lions must address their secondary if they ever want to stop the pass. Christian Gonzalez is a tall cornerback who is fast and athletic. 48. Daiyan Henley, LB: The Lions have maintained one of the worst linebacking corps in the NFL over the years. Daiyan Henley has great sideline-to-sideline speed. 55. Darnell Washington, TE: The Lions have an obvious hole at tight end because they traded T.J. Hockenson. Darnell Washington is an excellent blocking tight end with underrated receiving talent. 81. QB Malik Cunningham: The Lions may want a quarterback to groom behind Jared Goff. Malik Cunningham is a dual-threat quarterback with plenty of upside.) (2-8-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023.php
SI NFL Draft Bible (6. EDGE Myles Murphy, Clemson: "An immediate impact player as a freshman, the Georgia native demonstrates quick, first step-explosion, along with great strength and versatility. Murphy has been utilized on the outside to set the edge and has kicked inside when needed, showcasing multiple ways how he can be implemented at the next level." 18. CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State: "A long, physical press man cover corner, Porter Jr owns prototypical attributes, along with NFL bloodlines (son of former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joey Porter). His long arms allow him to knock receivers off their mark and enable him to get his hands on a lot of tipped balls.") (2-8-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/super-bowl-week-special-2023-nfl-mock-draft
Draft wire Easterling (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: The Lions could be a trade-back candidate here, but if they stick and pick, Witherspoon represents the best marriage of need and value in this scenario. His film shows a polished cover man who can excel in either man or zone, with the instincts and ball skills to be a big-play magnet. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: Sometimes, you just have to throw needs out the window and draft the best available player on the board. The Lions have way bigger needs elsewhere, but the value just isn’t there at any of them. D’Andre Swift has struggled to stay healthy, Jamaal Williams is a free agent, and Robinson is a top-five talent in this class. 48. DT Keeanu Benton. 55. S Jordan Battle. 81. OG Andrew Vorhees) (2-8-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-3-rounds-senior-bowl-bryce-young-cj-stroud-will-levis-anthony-richardson/
NFL.com Zierlein (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The Detroit Lions showed they mean business last year, but there is only so much business you can mean if you don't have a better secondary. 18. TE Michael Mayer: The Lions could double up at cornerback in Round 1, but passing on a rock-solid tight end who can block and catch might be tough after dealing T.J. Hockenson before last year's trade deadline.) (2-7-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-buccaneers-select-tom-brady-s-successor
PFN Rolfe (6. DT Jalen Carter: The Detroit Lions are building a really nice roster under head coach Dan Campbell. They had their trouble at times on defense and need to be competitive in that line battle. There are some other needs on the defense, but the value here is not right at those spots, and passing up a talent like Jalen Carter would not be a wise move. From a fantasy perspective, the value of DTs is somewhat limited. However, Carter has the talent level to be a dominant option. In IDP formats, spending a mid-round pick on him could mean you have a guaranteed contributor. In leagues that use the DT position, his value creeps up as high as third-round consideration. 18. CB Kelee Ringo: I really wanted to give the Lions Bijan Robinson here because an offensive combination of Robinson, D’Andre Swift, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams is mouth-watering. However, I ultimately believe the Lions bring back Jamaal Williams and therefore expect their draft focus to be on defense. This is another one of those situations where it depends on which style the Lions like as to which corner they go for. I personally give the slight edge to Kelee Ringo, but if it were Cam Smith or Christian Gonzalez here, I would not be surprised.) (2-7-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-get-aaron-rodgers-hendon-hooker-heads-to-new-orleans/
ESPN Matt Miller (6. CB Devon Witherspoon. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness. 48. TE Sam LaPorta. 55. RB Jahmyr Gibbs) (2-6-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/7/23588022/2023-nfl-mock-draft-matt-miller-helps-lions-on-both-sides-of-the-ball-in-2-round-mock
Walter football Charlie (6. RB Bijan Robinson: Under general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions have taken elite talents and not reached for need. Hence, I could see them taking the best player in the 2023 NFL Draft, like Robinson. D'Andre Swift is a talented back, but he is incapable of staying healthy and handling a big work load. Swift is definitely not worthy of a big extension. Jamaal Williams is also an impending free agent. Even if Williams is re-signed, he is more of a solid No. 2 and not a dynamic game-changer. Jared Goff helped guide the Rams to the Super Bowl thanks to a dominant running game with Todd Gurley and a good defense. Robinson is a running back who has the potential to become a Lions legend who reminds their fanbase of the Barry Sanders days. Over the past few months, we have documentedin the Hot Press how sources from a number of teams have Robinson graded higher than other recent top-five running back prospects of Saquon Barkley, Leonard Fournette and Ezekiel Elliott, and Robinson. Just a few weeks ago, team sources across the league said the 2023 NFL Draft lacked true high first-round talent, with the exception of Robinson, as he was the only one receiving a consensus elite grade around the NFL.N In 2022, Robinson averaged 6.1 yards per carry for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also notched 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. 18. OT Tyler Steen: The Lions need more cornerback talent, but there is some depth at that position for Round 2, and they also have two second-round picks in the 2023 NFL Draft. Additionally, I think Detroit will probably sign veteran corner help in free agency. The one weak link on Detroit's offensive line is right guard. Steen could be a plug-and-play upgrade, and in a few years, if the Lions need to move on from Taylor Decker, they could move Steen to right tackle and Penei Sewell to left tackle. Steen was a 3-year starter at Vanderbilt before transferring to Alabama for his final season. The 6-foot-5, 315-pounder possesses excellent size for left tackle in the NFL. He was a rock-solid protector for Bryce Young while being a steady run blocker. Steen will enter the next level with a ton of experience, having started 45 straight games while playing in the best competition in college football. Steen has the flexibility to start out his career at guard before moving to tackle. 48. CB Quan Martin: The Lions need to find multiple cornerback additions and a safety to go with Kerby Joseph this offseason. The 6-foot, 195-pound Martin is a versatile defensive back who is a weapon in the secondary. He can play safety, nickel corner, or outside corner. Martin is a smooth athlete with instincts. Team sources feel Martin could be a riser during the draft process because he put together really good tape during the 2022 season. On the year, Martin recorded 64 tackles, three interceptions, 11 passes defended, one sack and two forced fumbles. He is sleeper who could rise quickly as the 2023 NFL Draft approaches. 55. LB Jack Campbell: Alex Anzalone is okay, but the Lions need more linebacker talent to go with late-round steal Malcolm Rodriguez. Even if Anzalone is re-signed, Detroit should add some linebacker upgrades to improve the middle of their defense. Team sources like Campbell and think he will go in the first three rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft. They call him a taller version of Chad Muma. The 6-foot-5, 243-pound Campbell has good size, strength, and enough athleticism to be a three-down starter. In 2022, he collected 125 tackles, one pass batted, one sack, one forced fumble and two interception. One of those picks was a superb grab off of C.J. Stroud. In 2021, Campbell amassed 140 tackles, a sack, forced fumble, two interceptions and five pass breakups. 81. QB Malik Cunningham: The Lions need a backup quarterback, and this is a signal-caller with starter upside. Cunningham completed 62 percent of his passes in 2022 for 1,568 yards, eight touchdowns and five interceptions. On the ground, he ran for 565 yards and 12 touchdowns. Cunningham played well enough over the previous three seasons to get the attention of NFL scouts for Fall 2022. In 2021, he completed 62 percent of his passes for 2,941 yards, 19 touchdowns and six interceptions. That season, he also ran for 1,031 yards and 20 touchdowns. Cunningham (6-1, 190) was solid in both 2020 and 2019 as well. He could be a sleeper steal in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (2-6-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023charlie.php
CBS Wilson (6. DT Jalen Carter: The Lions use the first of two first-rounders to add arguably the best player in this draft. In related news: a defensive front that includes Carter and Aidan Hutchinson is a real problem for the rest of the NFC North. 18. CB Deonte Banks: Maryland teammate and fellow CB Jakorian Bennett got much of the buzz in the fall, but Deonte Banks put together the type of season that will land you in the top-50 conversation. He's a fluid athlete who is also a big, physical corner who can match up with NFL wide receivers.) (2-5-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-buccaneers-trade-up-for-tom-brady-replacement-colts-make-move-for-franchise-qb-as-well/
PFN Cummings (6. CB Brian Branch: First things first: Brian Branch is a top-10 prospect, and arguably worth this pick at sixth overall. More importantly, while he fits the range in terms of talent, he’s also a great fit for the Lions, who could use an elite slot defender to take pressure off the rest of the secondary. Branch has a rare mix of finesse and physicality, and is a true dynamic force. 18. TE Michael Mayer: Trust me, Lions fans. I know how scary it is to pick a tight end in Round 1 after the Eric Ebron and T.J. Hockenson selections. But it’s one of Detroit’s dwindling needs, and there’s a top-tier TE prospect available at 18th overall in Michael Mayer. Mayer is still my TE1, with the mobility, hand strength, and physicality to dominate the middle and free up the wide receivers. 48. RB Jahmyr Gibbs: Jamaal Williams’ long-term future is uncertain, and D’Andre Swift is a FA in 2024. Jahmyr Gibbs not only adds elite dynamism but can keep the ship steady if someone leaves. 55. WR Rashee Rice: The Senior Bowl exposed some inefficiencies in Rashee Rice‘s game, both with route running and applied physicality. Nevertheless, his three-level framework is still quality. 81. DT Moro Ojomo: Moro Ojomo lit up the Shrine Bowl with his elite combination of raw power and leverage.) (2-5-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-keion-white-ocyrus-torrence-others-rise-senior-bowl-shrine-bowl/
CBS Stackpole (6. DE Myles Murphy: The Lions have a bigger need in the secondary than along the defensive front, so if they fall in love with a cornerback throughout the draft process, that could be the pick here. For now, though, Detroit snags perhaps the best prospect available in Myles Murphy. His physical traits and versatility will pair will with 2022 No. 2 pick Aidan Hutchinson. 18. CB Cam Smith: The Lions defense played much better the second half of the season, but it still needs more upgrades if it's going to become a consistent contender in the NFC North. Cam Smith could develop into a shutdown corner that Detroit lacks, as his length and instincts will translate well to the next level.) (2-4-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-3-teams-trade-up-for-qbs-as-bears-move-back-ravens-add-eventual-heir-to-lamar-jackson/
PFN Broback (6. Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson: I don’t care about team needs here. If you have the opportunity to pair Aidan Hutchinson and Myles Murphy, you do it. End of story. Two players with great frames and motors that won’t quit give the Lions a tandem that makes most tackles want to quit. Iron sharpens iron too, so going against Penei Sewell in practice will only make Murphy better. 18. Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami (FL): Another player that is showing up more often at the top of mocks, Tyrique Stevenson has first-round potential. From his size to his gameplay, there’s plenty that warrants a high selection. Detroit’s defense is full of players that display good energy, but they need some more talent to elevate their play. With the Lions adding Myles Murphy to the defense, they make another pairing that could be one of the best in the league. Jeff Okudah’s a great corner for this defense, and Stevenson gives fans a lot to be excited about in 2023. 48. Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia: Detroit trading T.J. Hockenson made it obvious that tight end would be a position they’d address this offseason. With Darnell Washington still on the board, it turns out that was a smart move. At 6’7″, Washington gives the Lions a big target for Jared Goff, who also opens the field up for his wide receivers. The former Georgia Bulldog is still developing, but it’s hard to ignore the foundation he’s working with coming into the draft. 55. Henry To’oto’o, LB, Alabama: Detroit may very well be satisfied with Malcolm Rodriguez and Alex Anzalone, but it’s going to be tough to pass on Henry To’oto’o if he’s available. An incredibly smart player, To’oto’o has a future in coaching. His preparation off the field is what makes him so successful on it. He was a menace at Tennessee before transferring to Alabama, and his production never dipped. His ability to beat blockers to the spot, thanks to hours of preparation, gives him an advantage that many other linebackers don’t possess. It’s the biggest reason he’ll thrive in the NFL and in life after football. 81. Jake Haener, QB, Fresno State: Even if Detroit is satisfied with Jared Goff, it doesn’t mean they won’t take a quarterback. Jake Haener is a warrior on the football field, but he also has the potential to be a starting quarterback in the NFL with his talent.) (2-3-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-myles-murphy-joins-aidan-hutchinson/
NFL.com Edholm (6. QB C.J. Stroud: If the Lions stay here, why not use the pennies-from-heaven Rams pick on an eventual successor for Jared Goff? Trading down certainly has some appeal, but Stroud possesses some Goff-like traits from the pocket and could sit a year if needed. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: The Lions just struck gold with Illinois safety Kerby Joseph, so why not head back to Champaign to land one of the scrappiest, most instinctive corners in the draft. Witherspoon fits the Lions' mold -- and is a former roommate of Joseph's, to boot.) (2-3-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/eric-edholm-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-four-qbs-selected-in-top-10-bills-eagles-add
PFN Hasan (9. Detroit Lions (From CAR) Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: The Lions traded up to No. 12 last year to grab Jameson Williams. This year, they trade down to pick 9 to get those selections back. The Lions do like the cornerbacks they have on the roster, but it’s tough to look at the defensive production they’ve had this year and ignore the defense. Some might consider Christian Gonzalez the top corner in the draft, and rightfully so. He needs to add a little bit of size to his frame, but he has strength, length, speed, and instincts. And he can move with more lateral capability than any 6’4” corner has any right to. 22. Detroit Lions (From BAL) Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas: The Lions might reach a little bit here in order to replace Alex Anzalone, a locker-room leader that has often been injured and will hit free agency. No one seems to move smoother at the position than Drew Sanders, who could be what many projected Anzalone to be coming out of the draft were it not for injury. Sanders is a recent convert to off-ball linebacker, so he’ll need some work, but he absolutely has the size and tenacity to play Detroit’s style of football and the movement upside to make him the coverage player that Malcolm Rodriguez will likely never become. They could be an intimidating duo for years to come.) (2-2-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-trade-heavy-first-round-bryce-young/
CFN (6. Tyree Wilson EDGE Texas Tech: The Lions have the 18, so they can go with the proverbial Best Player Available here. Take the dynamic pass rusher, take some of the heat off Aidan Hutchinson, and look … out.18. CB Brian Branch 18. Christian Gonzalez CB Oregon: Assuming the Lions go after a pass rusher with the sixth overall pick, now they get to fatten up a bit. They’ll go with the best cornerback still available.) (2-1-23): https://collegefootballnews.com/2023/02/2023-nfl-draft-first-round-mock-draft-post-championships-1-31
Yahoo Charles McDonald (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Gonzalez is a hot name right now and he fits with what the Lions need: just anyone who has the potential to be a net-positive pass defender. Gonzalez and Jeff Okudah would give the Lions a better chance to not have a comically bad defense at the start of next season. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: More help for the Lions’ defense. Bresee has been a stalwart for Clemson and would pair well with Aidan Hutchinson for the long term in Detroit.) (2-1-23): https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-30-demeco-ryans-texans-take-their-qb--and-sean-paytons-broncos-take-one-too-004833139.html
Draft Network Marino (6. Christian Gonzalez CB, Oregon: After a slow start, the Detroit Lions finally enjoyed a promising season from Jeff Okudah. Pairing him with Christian Gonzalez would provide the Lions with an exciting young pair of corners. Gonzalez offers tremendous size, length, coverage instincts, and ball skills to be a lockdown guy in the NFL. 18. Bijan Robinson RB, Texas: Jamaal Williams is on an expiring contract and D’Andre Swift has been inconsistent. We all know the importance of running the football to the identity of this Detroit Lions team. Adding Bijan Robinson into the equation behind a stellar offensive line, young weapons, and a bright offensive mind in Ben Johnson could see Detroit land among the top-scoring offenses in the NFL next season. Robinson is a rare talent. 49. DT Calijah Kancey: Calijah Kancey won’t check the ideal size boxes but he is a dynamic interior penetrator that is highly disruptive. The Lions have been stockpiling young defensive linemen and Kancey continues to add to that mix. 56. TE Luke Musgrave: As the draft process continues to unfold, Luke Musgrave might not make it this late in the second round. With the departure of T.J. Hockenson, Detroit has a need at tight end and Musgrave offers an impressive blend of size, route-running, hands, and athleticism.) (2-1-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anderson-wilson-murphy/
Athlon sports Fischer (6. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: Taking another corner in the top 10 might worry draft-obsessed Detroit fans still not thrilled at the development of Jeff Okudah. Gonzalez is a much different prospect, however, and could help solidify a defense that had plenty of issues giving up the big play. 18. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah: After trading away T.J. Hockenson, the Lions would love to find a replacement early on in the draft with the vast amount of capital they have at their disposal. Kincaid is a versatile weapon and will give a fun offense an additional dimension.) (1-31-23): https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-early-february
O'Hara (6. CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon. A one-year player at Oregon after a transfer from Colorado, Gonzalez is 6-2 with range and speed. He used that to intercept four passes in 12 games. He added 11 passes defended. 18. DT Bryan Bresee, Clemson. 6-5 and 306 pounds, he played 26 games with 21 starts. Nine career sacks and 15 tackles for loss.) (1-30-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-mock-draft-1-0-first-selections-gonzalez-bresee-young
SN (6. CB Cam Smith: The Lions got some improved play from 2020 first-rounder Jeff Okudah in coverage but struggled to find other answers on the perimeter. Smith is a physical, explosive cover man for his size with the potential to become more polished, well-rounded and consistent. 18. DE Isaiah Foskey: The Lions could use a rangy bookend for 2022 No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson. Foskey can deliver with a powerful, explosive and technically sound game. He also has the potential to develop into an elite run defender.) (1-30-23): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-eagles-bengals-ravens-seahawks/vfexi1k5g3r2ha0yl1n73kk0
PFF Sikkema (6. CB DEVON WITHERSPOON, ILLINOIS: Let's keep this blurb to just a few words: turn on the tape. Though Witherspoon comes in a little lighter than desired for an NFL defender at 6-foot and 180 pounds, his tape was about as good as it gets. He earned an elite 92.6 coverage grade in 2022, which ranked first in the FBS. On top of not yielding a touchdown this year, on 107 press coverage snaps, he allowed just five catches for 23 total yards. 18. DT CALIJAH KANCEY, PITTSBURGH: In a defensive tackle class that feels light on impact players after Jalen Carter, Calijah Knacey sure made his case to be the second one selected this coming April. Though he’s undersized at 6-foot-1 and 280 pounds, he is an absolute menace on the interior with fantastic burst, great use of natural leverage, the fastest hands in the east and a motor that just does not quit. He recorded 27.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks over the past two seasons with a 22.7% pass rush win rate.) (1-30-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-mock-draft-houston-texans-trade-up-three-quarterbacks-top-10
PFN Hodgkinson (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Bresee and Carter should both draw attention from a Detroit Lions team looking to mold themselves in the ferocious image of their head coach. However, with both gone in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Detroit addS a disruptive playmaking presence in the secondary to play opposite former first-rounder Jeff Okudah. Christian Gonzalez has used his solitary season with the Oregon Ducks to establish himself as a genuine CB1 contender in this class. From his enticing athleticism through his football intelligence to his mind-blowing ball skills, Gonzalez looks every bit the next lockdown cornerback at the NFL level. 18. DE Tyree Witherspoon: While Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston have embarrassed many NFL offensive tackles this fall, don’t be surprised to see the Lions add another EDGE in the 2023 NFL Draft. With their second pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they land Tyree Wilson, a 6’6″, 276-pound defensive lineman with a gargantuan wingspan and preposterous power. 48. Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson: Adding Trenton Simpson to their first-round haul in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft means the Lions put playmakers in place at all three levels of defense. The Clemson LB is the epitome of a Swiss Army Knife in this class, a do-it-all disruptor in all phases. 55. Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State: After trading T.J. Hockenson, the Lions should be in the market for a tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft. South Dakota State’s Tucker Kraft is one of the best out there. He’s a smooth athlete at 6’5″ and 255 pounds, and a genuine threat up the seams. 81. Brandon Joseph, S, Notre Dame: Although his stock has waned compared to expectations ahead of the year, Brandon Joseph has the intelligence to read the game at a high level, particularly as a pass disruptor, where his ball skills come to the fall.) (1-28-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-las-vegas-raiders-are-all-in-on-anthony-richardson/
PFF Mosher (6. DT BRYAN BRESEE, CLEMSON (PFF Big Board Rank: 8): The Lions are close to being a real contender in the NFC, but they’ll need improvements along the front seven of their defense. Aidan Hutchinson was fantastic as a rookie, but they need more help on the interior. While Bresee doesn’t have the production of a top-10 pick, he is a unique athlete with incredible size and strength. The best part is that he plays incredibly hard, which is a must for head coach Dan Campbell. 8. S BRIAN BRANCH, ALABAMA (PFF Big Board Rank: 10): Another safety for the Lions? Yep. Kerby Joseph was fantastic as a rookie, but they could always use another to pair with him for the next few years. And Branch is so much more than just a typical safety. He can play in the slot, in the box or even at cornerback. This would be a gamble on talent, as Branch is one of the best 10 or 12 players in this class.) (1-26-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-mock-draft-colts-trade-will-levis-raiders-cj-stroud
ESPN Kiper (6. DE Tyree Wilson. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez) (1-25-23): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/01/espns-mel-kiper-has-detroit-lions-taking-2-defenders-in-first-mock-draft.html
NFL.com Brooks (6. DT Bryan Bresee: Adding another trench warrior to the Lions’ defensive line will help head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn build a bully in Motown. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez: Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn needs more cover corners to maximize the blitz-heavy scheme that helped the Lions emerge as a playoff contender in 2022.) (1-23-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-bills-giants-land-wide-receivers-in-round-1
Draft Network Parson (9. DE Myles Murphy (DET gets: 2023 1st-round pick (No. 9), 2023 3rd-round pick (No. 93), 2024 1st-round pick, CAR gets: 2023 1st-round pick (No. 6)): Aidan Hutchinson was as good as advertised as a rookie. James Houston came in as a designated pass rusher and led the team in sacks. A full-time edge remains a need for the Lions. Myles Murphy defends the run and pass well to be on the field on all three downs. Murphy, Houston, and Hutchinson could create a dynamic and versatile pass-rush package on third downs to harass opposing quarterbacks. 18. Devon Witherspoon CB, Illinois: The Lions’ pursuit to improve their defense continues with their second pick in this NFL mock draft. Dan Campbell loves toughness and physicality, and CB Devon Witherspoon embodies this perfectly. His tackling in space and in run support is better than most CBs that I have studied. Pairing him with Jeff Okudah sounds like a dream come true.) (1-23-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qb1-levis-young/
Tankathon (6. DE Tyree Wilson. 18. TE Michael Mayer. 49. DT Tuli Tuipulotu. 49. CB Jaylon Jones. 56. LB Henry To'oTo'o. 82. LB Daiyan Henley. 82. DT Jaquelin Roy) (1-21-23): https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft
Draft wire Miller (6. DT Jalen Carter: Detroit gets richer once again by simply allowing the board to fall to them. With three quarterbacks in the top five, and two edge rushers being preferred to interior help, the Lions pick up potentially the best player in the entire class. Carter was an unstoppable machine the majority of the season, and was constantly double-teamed to no effect. He would bring an immediate boost to an already young and dangerous Detroit defensive line. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: The Lions get yet another steal here, in a move to bolster what was a shaky defense for the majority of the season. Witherspoon is a fierce and physical corner who fits the Dan Campbell profile nicely, and will help establish an improved, nasty secondary for this young Lions team.) (1-21-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-playoffs-bryce-young-cj-stroud-will-levis-anthony-richardson/
PFF Renner (6. DT Bryan Bresee, Clemson: “After Jalen Carter, this is it. There is not another defensive tackle that offers that, which is high-end athleticism, high-end production that you feel good about making an impact at the NFL level. So if you're the Detroit Lions, and that qualifies as a need for you, you're not going to find another guy like Bresee.” — Mike Renner 18. RB Bijan Robinson, Texas: “Bijan Robinson behind that offensive line, with Ben Johnson returning as offensive coordinator and Jamaal Williams being a free agent, there's a lot to like about this pairing. I think he will be used creatively there, I think his skills will be maximized, and I think it would take that offense to a level that, even with Jared Goff, could get you to a Super Bowl.” — Mike Renner) (1-20-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-nfl-mock-draft-2023-reviewing-mike-renners-first-round-mock
NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: I fell in love with Witherspoon’s skill set after the first game I studied. He is dripping with instincts and possesses outstanding ball skills. His feisty play style would fit the culture Dan Campbell and Co. are building in Detroit. 18. LB Trenton Simpson: The Lions add another athletic playmaker in Simpson, who could slide right next to Malcolm Rodriguez to form an excellent young LB corps.) (1-20-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-texans-ravens-among-four-teams-selecting
FTW D'Andrea (6. DT Bryan Bresee - Team needs: CB, S, LB, DT, QB. Detroit finished 2022 ranked 26th against the run in defensive DVOA and gave up 5.2 yards per carry. Adding Bresee not only gives the Lions a versatile interior lineman who can play multiple roles to clog running lanes, but a player who can shoot gaps, get upfield and make quarterbacks uncomfortable. The 300-pound tackle can play over the center or in the gaps. While he doesn’t have the eye-opening stats of the defenders in front of him, he’s the kind of player whose presence allows others to thrive. Detroit, with young studs like Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill up front, will benefit from his services. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: Detroit was bad against both the run and the pass in 2022. After shoring up the defensive line with Bresee, Dan Campbell gets to add a high-upside, proven corner to boost his secondary. Witherspoon has a penchant for getting to the ball — his 14 passes defensed in 2022 stand as proof — and he’s versatile enough to handle assignments in the slot or split out along the sideline. The Lions allowed 7.0 net yards per attempt last season, second-worst in the NFL. Witherspoon isn’t a household name, but he’s a productive defensive back who shows up in big moments and can track wideouts whether he’s in man or zone coverage.) (1-19-23): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-2023-texans-bears-bryce-young-cj-stroud
Dane Brugler (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Heading into this pick, three quarterbacks, EDGE Will Anderson (Alabama), and DT Jalen Carter (Georgia) all went in the top five, leaving the Lions with an interesting choice and Brugler went with his top corner on the board. Here’s what he had to say about his projection: “Christian Gonzalez flashed enough at Colorado to earn the No. 9 spot on my summer top-50 board, and he lived up to that hype in his one season at Oregon. With his speed/length athletic profile and the Lions’ need at cornerback, Gonzalez (the brother-in-law of former Lions’ backup quarterback David Blough) should be on Detroit’s short list for its first of two Round 1 picks.” At 6-foot-2, 200 pounds with Olympic sprinter blood in his veins (Blough’s wife, Melissa Gonzalez is his sister), Gonzalez has been in the conversation for the top corner spot all season. He has drawn Patrick Surtain comparisons for his length, athleticism, instincts, and man coverage skills, would fit the Lions' scheme like a glove, and has CB1 shutdown potential. I try not to put too much stock into reports of the Lions scouts attending games of prospects because speculating can get you into trouble, but it is worth noting that both Lions general manager Brad Holmes and senior director of player personnel Lance Newmark have made separate trips to Oregon for scouting purposes this season. It’s fair to say they’ve done their homework on the Oregon prospects. 15. QB Anthony Richardson: Trading up (with the Packers) from No. 18 to pick No. 15 costs the Lions pick No. 48 in this scenario, but as Brugler points out, it’s something Holmes has done before: “In last year’s first round, the Lions made a major trade with a division foe to move up for a high-upside offensive star (Jameson Williams). They could do it again this year and invest in their future at the quarterback position.” Here’s Brugler’s explanation for why he projected the Lions would make this aggressive move to acquire a quarterback: “Thanks to his size, athleticism and arm, Anthony Richardson is a total freak show with a high ceiling, but he’s still figuring out how to be a consistent passer. Jared Goff’s presence would let Detroit develop Richardson at his own pace.” At 6-foot-4, 232 pounds, Richardson has every physical trait you could want in a modern NFL quarterback: size, strength, speed, twitch, athleticism, explosion, power arm, the ability to put touch on throws, and if it all comes together he could be a top five quarterback in the NFL. The problem is, he hasn’t put it all together yet and each of these skills have come in flashes rather than as a complete product. He is still very raw in several areas, including decision-making, throwing technique, and accuracy, which also puts him in the potential bust category. 55. DE Isaiah Foskey: Pairing the Lions with Foskey creates an interesting dynamic because while Foskey the person is an ideal fit in Detroit, Foskey the player is not as smooth a positional fit. Foskey is an above-average athlete who never stops working on a given play, has elite character, and is a weapon on special teams. He is a hybrid pass rusher that wins with length and explosion but has also shown enough range to drop into coverage at times. On special teams, he is a potential foundational piece due to his athleticism and willingness to work. His positional fit on defense is not as clean. Foskey has a lot of desirable pass rushing traits, and while he has the size, he’s not quite efficient enough as an edge-setter to be Aidan Hutchinson’s primary backup on the open edge. He also didn’t take the next step in his development this past offseason, which brings into question how much higher his developmental ceiling is. At the end of the day, Foskey could be used in the SAM role the Lions started incorporating more late last season. But with James Houston and Julian Okwara already in that role, it’d create a bit of a log jam at the position unless the role becomes more prominent.) (1-17-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/1/17/23558373/2023-nfl-mock-draft-dane-brugler-detroit-lions-trade-up-anthony-richardson
Draft Network Sanchez (6. DE Will Anderson: The Lions as an entire organization has made huge strides in the right direction, and they were essentially one game away from making the playoffs. This change happened with the Lions overturning this roster with players who are talented, high character, and have a genuine passion for the game of football. Will Anderson Jr. embodies all of those characteristics. This is a no-brainer pick, as they didn’t think Anderson Jr. would be available at this spot. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: The Lions double-down on defense. With their earlier pick in this NFL mock draft, they drafted EDGE Will Anderson Jr. Now, they go after another premium position and draft cornerback Devon Witherspoon. Witherspoon is fast, physical, can play man, and is another player that fits the culture of the Lions.) (1-15-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qb1-trades/
Draft Network Eisner (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Who knows what the Packers are going to do with this pick? Will they pass on taking 2023’s WR1? Maybe—they always seem to pass on pass-catchers in the first round. So why not add an uber-talented defensive end to the mix? Derick Hall is a better run defender than pass rusher right now, but there’s reason to believe the Packers’ staff can groom him into reaching his full, QB-disrupting potential. 18. WR Quentin Johnston: While Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams should be long-term mainstays for Detroit, they can afford to add a bigger-body receiver that can win in various ways. Johnston will be much more than just a D.J. Chark replacement and will form a trio of high-quality receivers for the to-be-determined QB of the future.) (1-11-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-non-playoff-order/
Fox sports Hellman and Vitali (6. Detroit Lions (via L.A. Rams): Will Levis, QB, Kentucky - Carmen: I've spent a fair amount of time writing recently about Jared Goff's resurgence and how good the Detroit offense was all season, which has been validated by the fact that offensive coordinator Ben Johnson's head coaching interviews are up to three already, but I don't think that precludes the Lions from taking a quarterback. If anything, they draft perhaps the most Dan Campbell-y signal caller in this year's class and let him develop behind Goff for another year. Either way, the Lions are going to be dangerous next season and this year's draft is going to help tremendously. 18. Detroit Lions: Jaylon Jones, CB, Texas A&M - Carmen: The Lions are an extremely young team who were built through the draft and they don't slow down with all the draft capital they have this year. They need corner help badly. Fortifying their secondary should reinforce an improving defense.) (1-10-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-mock-draft-alabama-players-go-1-2-as-non-playoff-order-set
USA Today Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz (6. Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson: The moment of truth is coming for the Lions' quarterback plans, as Detroit can no longer count on annual top-10 picks after narrowly missing out on the playoffs. If Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes have any concerns about Jared Goff, two picks in the first round and two more in the second provide ammo for a trade up the board. But changing gears might be hard to embrace after that 8-2 close to the season. If the Lions stay the course behind center, Bresee is a sensible option as a force in the middle who can amplify the havoc created by standout rookie Aidan Hutchinson. 18. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: Detroit has a strong opportunity to keep its defensive youth movement rolling, but top talent at cornerback is sorely lacking. The Lions should have several potential answers in the first round, and the 6-2, 200-pound Gonzalez proved with four interceptions this season that he's more than just an impressive package of size and speed.) (1-10-23): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/01/10/nfl-mock-draft-georgia-tcu-stars-jalen-carter/11017427002/
ESPN Jordan Reid (6. DT Bryan Bresee. 18. RB Bijan Robinson) (1-4-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/1/4/23538748/2023-nfl-mock-draft-espn-detroit-lions-jordan-reid
PFN Platte (4. (Trade From ARI): C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State: Sometimes you don’t have to be asking yourself what you can do to get better right now, but what you could have done to be better at your worst. While Jared Goff is finishing off his 2022 season pretty strong, just as he did in 2021, he started off the year as one of the most turnover prone. Through Week 8, when the Lions were 1-6, Goff threw 11 touchdowns but with nine turnovers. There are several issues that this team needed to resolve, but one of the biggest already might be. The Lions’ pass rush, and their defense as a whole, was terrible to start the year, but their rookies may finish the year with more sacks than any rookie class in history. A trade up likely costs Detroit their other first-round pick, but in terms of value, they’re likely to net other picks in return, possibly in 2024. C.J. Stroud projects well in this type of offense due to some similarities with Goff. A chief complaint of Goff is that he struggles under pressure, but we didn’t see that with Stroud against Georgia, the best defense in the nation, on the CFB playoff stage. Stroud threw no picks and went for nearly 350 yards and four touchdowns, more TDs than Georgia had allowed to any team in 2022, and more yardage than all but one opponent.) (1-4-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-texans-grab-bryce-young-detroit-trades-up-for-cj-stroud/
Draft Network Crabbs (6. DE Tyree Wilson: If you’re still looking to catch your breath after the chaos of the top six picks in this NFL mock draft, I got good news for you. We’re staying chalk here. The Lions pick up a scheme and front-versatile defensive lineman with explosive qualities to pair with Aidan Hutchinson in the team’s bid to formulate a winning program. And boy, oh boy, do I love the thought of Hutchinson and Tyree Wilson, with their physical gifts, prowling the same line together. 17. CB Brian Branch: The Lions’ defensive resurgence at the midway point of the season wasn’t seen coming by many, but I’d like to see the team ensure it’s no fluke. Adding a versatile defender like Brian Branch into the mix is one good way to make sure the Lions have all the weapons in the world needed defensively to have potent stopping power week in and week out.) (1-2-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qb-trades/
Draft Network Weissman (4. Will Levis QB, Kentucky: The Lions have been very competitive this year and their offense has been clicking on all cylinders primarily due to their strong run game. Jared Goff has played well this year but I do think this offense could be better with a more explosive quarterback. Will Levis has a cannon for an arm, is athletic, and is just scratching the surface to the player he could eventually become. I like the idea of adding Levis to the Lions as they do have a strong nucleus of young talent on offense. 18. Kelee Ringo CB, Georgia: Jeff Okudah has played very well this season and so has the other corner opposite him in Jerry Jacobs. Adding Kelee Ringo in this NFL mock draft might seem like overkill, but you can never have too many corners. Ringo is too talented to pass up. 49. Lukas Van Ness EDGE, Iowa: The Lions are building a strong front seven led by Aidan Hutchinson and look to add a running mate with Lukas Van Ness. 61. Cedric Tillman WR, Tennessee: Cedric Tillman is a physical chain-mover who will give the Lions yet another talented pass-catching option.) (12-21-22): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-young-levis-stroud-richardson/
SI NFL Draft Borowsky (5. QB Bryce Young, Alabama: This season Jared Goff has been impressive, but it will be hard to pass up on Bryce Young. He'd be paired with Jameson Williams again, which was one of the best connections in college football in 2021. The Lions could be a perennial contender with Young in Detroit's offense. 18. Detroit Lions (Via LAR): LB Drew Sanders, Arkansas: By the end of the pre-draft process, Sanders could be even higher on the list. He has everything teams want in a modern NFL linebacker. Sanders can cover, comes downhill with incredible explosion, and is a consistent playmaker. For a first-year inside linebacker in 2022, Sanders has shown the instincts of a four-year starter. It wouldn't be shocking to see Sanders end up as one of the best linebackers in the NFL.) (12-19-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bowl-season-mock
ESPN McShay (4. QB CJ Stroud. 16. CB Joey Porter) (12-13-22): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/12/lions-draft-pick-via-rams-remains-in-top-5-espns-todd-mcshay-drops-first-mock.html
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
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. 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
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.) (11-2-22): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-c-j-stroud-bryce-young-in-top-two-whos-next
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
Round 1 Pick 1 (19 CB, 11 DE, 11 DT, 8 QB, 1 RB):
8 CB Christian Gonzalez
8 CB Devon Witherspoon
8 DT Bryan Bresee
7 DE Tyree Wilson
5 QB CJ Stroud
4 DE Myles Murphy
3 DT Jalen Carter
2 QB Will Levis
2 DE Will Anderson
2 CB Brian Branch
1 QB Bryce Young
1 RB Bijan Robinson
1 CB Cam Smith
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 CB Joey Porter
Round 1 Pick 2 (22 CB, 6 TE, 5 DE, 5 DT, 4 LB, 4 RB, 2 QB, 2 WR, 1 OG, 1 OT):
5 CB Christian Gonzalez
5 CB Devon Witherspoon
5 TE Michael Mayer
4 RB Bijan Robinson
3 DT Bryan Bresee
3 CB Joey Porter
3 CB Brian Branch
2 CB Kelee Ringo
2 LB Trenton Simpson
2 LB Drew Sanders
2 DT Calijah Kancey
2 QB Anthony Richardson
1 CB Jaylon Jones
1 CB Deonte Banks
1 CB Cam Smith
1 WR Kayshon Boutte
1 WR Quentin Johnston
1 OG O’Cyrus Torrence
1 DE Tyree Wilson
1 DE Isaiah Foskey
1 DE Jared Verse
1 DE Lukas Van Ness
1 DE Nolan Smith
1 DE BJ Ojulari
1 TE Dalton Kincaid
1 CB Tyrique Stevenson
1 OT Tyler Steen
Round 2 Pick 1 (4 CB, 4 LB, 2 TE, 2 DE, 2 DT, 1 RB):
1 LB Daiyan Henley
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 CB Quan Martin
1 CB Jaylon Jones
1 CB Kyu Blu Kelly
1 DE Lukas Van Ness
1 DE Isaiah Foskey
1 DT Calijah Kancey
1 DT Keeanu Benton
1 LB Henry To'oTo'o
1 LB Trenton Simpson
1 LB Drew Sanders
1 RB Jahmyr Gibbs
1 TE Sam LaPorta
1 TE Darnell Washington
Round 2 Pick 2 (4 TE, 3 LB, 2 WR, 1 CB, 1 RB, 1 S):
2 LB Henry To'oTo'o
2 TE Darnell Washington
1 TE Luke Musgrave
1 TE Tucker Kraft
1 CB Garrett Williams
1 WR Cedric Tillman
1 LB Jack Campbell
1 WR Rashee Rice
1 RB Jahmyr Gibbs
1 S Jordan Battle
Round 3 (3 QB, 2 DT, 1 S, 1 OG, 1 RB, 1 WR):
2 QB Malik Cunningham
1 DT Jaquelin Roy
1 DT Moro Ojomo
1 S Brandon Joseph
1 QB Jake Haener
1 OG Andrew Vorhees
1 RB Jahmyr Gibbs
1 WR Xavier Hutchinson
Round 5 (1 WR):
1 WR Trey Palmer
Round 6 Pick 1 (1 TE):
1 TE Will Mallory
Round 6 Pick 2 (1 QB):
1 QB Clayton Tune
No comments:
Post a Comment