CBS Wilson (6. Tyree Wilson: The more you watch of Wilson, the more you love his game. Not only what he put on tape at Texas Tech, but his upside 2-3 years down the road. He's long, has the frame to add weight if needed and he's a dominant, high-motor pass rusher who can take over games. He's had a foot injury that sidelined him late in the college season and kept him from participating in the Senior Bowl and the combine. The hope is that he'll be ready for his pro day. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon had a great season for the Illini and while there will be questions about his 180-pound frame, you wouldn't know it to watch him play.) (3-12-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-panthers-take-bryce-young-at-no-1-three-qbs-off-the-board-with-the-first-three-picks/
USA Today Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz (6. DE Tyree Wilson: For all of the improvements the Lions' defense made down the stretch last season, allowing 320 rushing yards to the Panthers in a Week 16 loss was the unit's undoing. The 6-6, 271-pound Wilson combines the quickness to run down ball carriers with the length to engulf them. He should also generate pressure on passers thanks to his sheer power, though he's unlikely to be as quick of a study as Aidan Hutchinson was as a rookie. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: Is there a player for whom it's more difficult to project a landing spot? A running back who seemingly leaves almost every would-be tackler grasping for air, Robinson is considered by many a top-10 player in this draft. Yet it's difficult to determine which team would be willing to spend a first-round pick on him given the current landscape for investing in young ball carriers. Detroit would be a sensible fit if the team doesn't bring back Jamaal Williams, especially given the contributions Robinson could make as a receiver to boost Jared Goff and the passing attack.The former No. 1 overall recruit didn't find the prolific production expected of him at the collegiate level, in part due a torn ACL that kept him out for almost all of 2021. His explosiveness is still evident, however, and should be enticing to a Detroit team needing something extra on the interior of its defensive line.) (3-11-23): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/03/11/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-trade-bears-pick-quarterback/11449987002/
SN (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Gonzalez went gangbusters at the Combine to confirm his status as the top corner in the class. He has great athletic pedigree and made sure to remind everyone about his playing speed and quickness for such a big cover man. The Lions should love putting him on the back end opposite Jeff Okudah to make big plays off Aidan Hutchinson's pressure. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: Robinson ran a 4.46 in the 40-yard dash at the Combine and his commitment to do all the drills paid off to cement his status as the top first-round back, impressive given Alabama's well-rounded Jahmyr Gibbs also brought it in his workout. The Lions have recently expressed doubts about the durability and reliability of versatile pass-catcher D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams also is a free agent. Robinson makes sense for them as a three-down workhorse.) (3-11-23): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-bears-cj-stroud/u00fddrffzjh6y6xkiohcfuo
Walter Football (6. DE Tyree Wilson: Charlie Campbell mocked Tyree Wilson to the Lions often throughout the pre-draft process, and it's easy to see why. The Lions had a huge boost from Aidan Hutchinson last year, but their front seven is still starved for pass-rushing talent. Tyree Wilson would look fantastic across from Hutchinson, and he could also slide inside on pass-rushing downs to really create havoc for opposing quarterbacks. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez: Detroit's back seven played well in the second half of the season, but the team still needs a No. 1 cornerback. Selecting Christian Gonzalez at No. 6 wouldn't even be outlandish, so to land him at No. 18 is a huge steal. Gonzalez is a tall cornerback who is fast and athletic. 48. Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State: 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. TE Luke Musgrave: 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 its defense. In 2022, Overshown totaled 95 tackles, four sacks and five passes broken up. He recorded 74 tackles, two passes broken up and two sacks in 2021. In 2020, he totaled 60 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and seven passes defended. Overshown is a fast linebacker with crazy track speed and athleticism. He can really run and has coverage potential, but the 6-foot-3, 229-pounder can get destroyed in the ground game and needs to get bigger, stronger and tougher for the NFL. 81. Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia Georgia: The Lions may want a quarterback to groom behind Jared Goff. Stetson Bennett was very clutch in big games for Georgia. He'll look to become the next Brock Purdy or Colt McCoy.) (3-11-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023.php
CBS Trapasso (6. QB Will Levis: Here's how I'd link Levis to the Lions: Detroit's GM Brad Holmes was with the Rams organization forever -- dating back to the St. Louis days -- before taking the job in the Motor City. Guess who he spent three years with in Los Angeles? Liam Coen. Who's Liam Coen? Levis' former offensive coordinator at Kentucky. [Michael Scott voice]: Boom. Roasted. 18. CB Deonte Banks: Another tall, highly talented cornerback to the Lions, a team that has so many fun young pieces.) (3-11-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-select-anthony-richardson-with-newly-acquired-no-1-pick-from-trade-with-bears/
CBS Edwards (6. DE Will Anderson: Detroit has to be viewed as one of the winners in this draft class if Will Anderson Jr. were to somehow fall to them at No. 6 overall. 18. DE Myles Murphy: It was wise for Detroit to snag a cornerback early because it may not get a chance to land one of the top options based on this scenario. The Lions were still able to land two very talented players on their defense.) (3-11-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-four-quarterbacks-taken-in-the-top-five-as-a-result-of-panthers-trade-up-with-bears/
Tankathon (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. TE Michael Mayer. 49. LB Jack Campbell. 56. DE Tuli Tuipulotu. 82. S Chris Smith ) (3-11-23): https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft
Draft Tek (6. DE Tyree Wilson: If the top four QBs fall off the board within the top-5 picks, that will ensure that one of the top two defensive players, Will Anderson and Jalen Carter, will be available at #6. In this mock, one QB remains outstanding, and both those top defenders are off the board, leaving the Lions with the #3 option on defense. Tyree Wilson was unable to show off his freaky athleticism at the Combine as he continues to recover from a foot injury, but he was reportedly still able to make an impact in his formal meetings with teams. (he also put up 23 reps on the bench press). At 6'6, 271 lbs there are some questions around Wilson's speed and explosiveness, but with 35+ inch arms he has little trouble working his way around opposing tackles and his high motor makes his getting the QB a question of 'when' not 'if.' 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: While the Lions' defense rebounded from a historically bad start and played pretty well during the team's 8-2 finishing run, they still have some position groups that just lacked adequate talent and depth. Count cornerback among those holes. The Lions starting CBs were 77th and 93rd out of 118 in the league by PFF ranking. It was nice to see Jeff Okudah fight back from a torn achilles and get his career untracked, but so far he's not the shutdown force the Lions hoped for when he was drafted #3 in 2020. So look for some reinforcements, both from free agency and the draft. 48. TE Darnell Washington. 55. LB Daiyan Henley. 81. WR Parker Washington. 152 QB Jake Haener. 183 DT Kobie Turner. 194 LB Cam Jones) (3-11-23): https://www.drafttek.com/2023-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp
PFN Mellor (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Detroit grabs the best pure man cornerback in the class with Christian Gonzalez available here. Gonzalez is still ascending despite locking down one side of the field for the Ducks in 2022. He’s a gifted athlete and a technical master on the outside. 18. CB Brian Branch: There are instinctual safeties, and then there is Brian Branch. The Lions secure two top-tier needs with their first two picks of the first round, both in the secondary. Branch can play a variety of roles in the Lions’ defense, and his mixing it up as a strong and free safety will pay dividends early. 37. Detroit Lions (From SEA via DEN): Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame (Trade: The Lions sent pick Nos. 48 and 194 in 2023 as well as a 2024 fifth-round pick in exchange for pick No. 37 from Seattle.): Michael Mayer‘s fall from grace stops here as the Lions move up with the Seahawks to nab the Notre Dame tight end. Mayer can do it all at tight end, just maybe not at such a high level as the first tight end taken in this draft. He can also pass protect and is a gritty run blocker when called upon. 55. LB Henry To’oTo’o: The Lions get a field general in Henry To’oTo’o with this pick, improving in every facet of defense in the process. To’oTo’o is at his best coming downhill and in the flats, doing incredible work in the short area coverage game. 81. WR Xavier Hutchinson: There may be concerns around Xavier Hutchinson‘s athleticism, but the Iowa State receiver has a natural ability to separate all along his routes. 152. WR Andrei Iosivas. 183. QB Clayton Tune) (3-11-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bear-panthers-trade-rodgers-trade-jackson-signing/
CBS Stackpole (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Christian Gonzalez seems to have cemented himself as this classes' best cornerback after his showing at the NFL Combine. He tested really well and showcased smooth athleticism during on-field drills -- and that's in addition to displaying his ball-hawking skills this past season at Oregon. The Lions need more defensive playmakers, and Gonzalez fits the bill. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: The No. 1 high school player in the country a few years ago didn't have his best season in 2022, but the Clemson product still has everything you want in a formidable interior disruptor. With the Lions releasing veteran Michael Brockers, and with John Cominsky and Isaiah Buggs set to become free agents, pairing Bryan Bresee with Aidan Hutchinson would ensure Detroit has a formidable defensive front.) (3-10-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-make-bryce-young-no-1-pick-after-trade-with-bears-four-qbs-go-in-top-5/
Touchdown wire Farrar (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DT Bryan Bresee) (3-10-23): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-panthers-bears-aaron-rodgers-c-j-stroud-bryce-young/
PFN Hasan (6. Joey Porter Jr. CB, Penn State: Outside of quarterback, this is the top player that may have helped boost his profile at the NFL Combine. Not only did Joey Porter Jr. clock in with incredible, near-unbelievable measurables with his 34-inch arms and a well-built, 193-pound frame, but he ran well and recorded a 10’9” broad jump. The presumed top cornerback, Christian Gonzalez, didn’t do poorly – his workouts were better than Porter’s – but the frame advantage Porter has could definitely appeal to a team like the Detroit Lions, who want to be as physical as possible. None of this disqualifies the Oregon cornerback, and he could easily be the Lions’ pick, but Porter fits the mold almost as well and has some intriguing play to offer. 22. Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson: The Lions lost basically nothing by trading down and have their pick between the top safeties and all but one linebacker to help out their defense. If they’re feeling particularly bold, they could even replace one Iowa tight end with another in this year’s draft. But here, they opt to replace LB Alex Anzalone, a free agent. Malcolm Rodriguez isn’t well-rounded enough to be the primary linebacker talent in two-linebacker looks, but he’s a very good player to pair with someone like Trenton Simpson, who both has the physicality Detroit covets and the coverage skills to fill in for Rodriguez.) (3-9-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-mock-draft-march-2023/
MLive Raven (6. Detroit Lions (via Los Angeles Rams) -- Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon: Devon Witherspoon is a stud when left alone on an island in man/press coverage. And he hits well above his weight class, reinforcing my belief this cornerback is an ideal fit for this team, not to mention Aaron Glenn’s system. And no minor hamstring issue at the combine will change my mind. Witherspoon wasn’t going to blow anyone away with his athletic testing. It’s all about the tape when looking at his game. He’s a sticky, feisty cornerback who has that special trait of knowing how to match and keep pace with receivers. Watch one game from 2022, and you’ll have a feel for his aggressive style. Witherspoon would allow the Lions to move Jeff Okudah around, potentially getting him in the box and the slot more on the quest to unlock his game. The breakout Illinois cornerback was targeted 62 times last season, allowing a passer rating of 25.3 and only 22 receptions and no touchdowns. The stats reinforcing his game don’t stop there. When Witherspoon was the primary defender in coverage, he allowed a QBR of 5.2. Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez has that sexy speed-length combo. But Witherspoon brings unique swagger, fearlessness and ability you can’t teach. Let Witherspoon eat one side of the field on an island while figuring out how to deploy/rotate Okudah, not to mention Jerry Jacobs and Co. Is taking a cornerback this highly in the draft again risky? Yeah, OK. But Brad Holmes shouldn’t ignore game-changing defenders based on the previous regime’s mistakes. Also, Witherspoon remains my choice whether they add a splash corner in free agency. That’s how strongly I feel about his ability to change this defense. He’s the top defender and fit left on my board here. 18. Detroit Lions -- Iowa EDGE Lukas Van Ness: Lukas Van Ness might not last this long after confirming his standing as a freak athlete in Indianapolis. Daniel Jeremiah has him as a top-10 pick in his most recent mock. And, please, don’t get lost in the “but he never started a game” conversation. That’s the way Iowa does things. It’s an old-school program that prioritizes starting upper-level students. Van Ness was still among the defensive leaders in snaps played. Oh, yeah, and he was one of the best players on the field whenever he was out there. The sophomore has earned his nickname of “Hercules,” from his 6-foot-5, 272-pound frame to those massive 11-inch hands and the 4.58-second 40-yard dash. Van Ness moved to the outside in 2022, creating 31 hurries with 10.5 tackles for loss and six sacks. And from the inside in 2021? Van Ness had 8.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks. That pairs well with the young defensive line pieces in Detroit. Glenn likes to move his linemen around, creating mismatches and different looks. And Van Ness, with Aidan Hutchinson and Josh Paschal, bouncing inside on different looks is a scary thought for opposing defensive lines, especially with James Houston outside and Alim McNeill inside. With or without Charles Harris or Romeo Okwara, Van Ness would give this team more foundational versatility and another havoc-creator to build around. Call me boring for sticking with these two. That’s cool. But I left Indy feeling more reinforced in my picks. If Van Ness remains on the board at Pick 18? Don’t let him pass. He was one of the best-run defenders at his position in college football last season, and looks ready to make noise at the next level.) (3-9-23): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/ben-ravens-2023-nfl-mock-draft-20-lions-sticking-with-defense-after-combine.html
CFN (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: This is a cornerback loaded draft, and the Lions can certainly get one when they pick again at the 19. However, they get a chance to get the best available defensive back on the board after Gonzalez destroyed the Combine with his 4.38 40 and terrific overall workout. 18. DE Myles Murphy: Depending on how the first five picks fall, the Lions might go with more help for the defensive line at the 6 and get their cornerback at the 18. They're more likely to upgrade the defensive backfield early and expect one of the decent edge rushers to be available here.) (3-9-23): https://collegefootballnews.com/nfl-draft/nfl-mock-draft-after-the-2023-nfl-combine-now-where-do-the-quarterbacks-go
SI NFL Draft Sirretella (6. Detroit Lions (via LAR): CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State – Fitting in with the ‘tough-guy’ mantra that the Lions preach on defense, the physical Porter Jr. would be an ideal fit in the secondary. 18. Detroit Lions: TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame – The Lions wideouts came on strong last season, adding Mayer to the mix would provide quarterback Jared Goff with a safety valve underneath.) (3-9-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/serritella-2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-combine-edition
MLive Kyle Meinke (6. Detroit Lions (via Rams): Clemson edge Myles Murphy: The Lions have been plain about their intentions. They’re open to improving all positions in the draft, including quarterback. But their priority is adding playmakers to their league-worst defense, and that’s especially true up front and at cornerback. “It’s just my own personal belief, is that you always build a defense with defensive linemen and corners,” defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said during combine week in Indianapolis. “So we’ll always look for that. It’s just what I believe in, because you can never have enough of those guys.” There are plenty of high-end prospects available at both positions, and cornerback has emerged as the favorite in recent mocks. One look at the roster, and it’s easy to see why. But let’s not overthink it. This regime wants to win in the trenches, and has drafted like it by targeting versatile big men like Penei Sewell, Alim McNeill, Aidan Hutchinson and Josh Paschal on the first two days of their first two drafts. All things being equal, I think the Lions would prefer to stick with that blueprint by drafting another versatile pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston. That’s especially true if a talent like Tyree Wilson really does fall to them. MWilson certainly looks the part, standing 6-foot-6 and 275 pounds with a wingspan of 86 inches. Just for some perspective, that’s 1 inch shorter than Giannis’ wingspan, even though Giannis is 6-foot-11. So, yeah. Freaky stuff. And Wilson used that long, explosive frame to overpower opponents from across the defensive front, a breathtaking show of force and athleticism that is sure to draw the eye of a Lions regime that was going crazy for Aidan Hutchinson this time last year. Now pair Hutchinson and Houston with another elite, versatile pass rusher, and Detroit could unleash its best pass rush in a decade. 18. CB Joey Porter Jr.: The Lions passed on Sauce Gardner, the defensive rookie of the year, to take Aidan Hutchinson in last year’s draft. Seems to have worked out for them too, now that Hutchinson has filled an immediate need, led all rookies in sacks and finished runner-up to Gardner for DROY. But the need at cornerback has continued to grow. Amani Oruwariye, Jeff Okudah and Mike Hughes were all benched last season. Only Okudah remains under contract from that mix, and if the Lions don’t pick up his fifth-year option -- which seems likely at this point -- he’ll be headed for a contract year. Given all that, it’s not a shock to see Devon Witherspoon and Christian Gonzalez getting so much love for the Lions at No. 6. But if they land a more premium player (like Tyree Wilson) at a more premium position (like edge rusher), they could still have a shot at a top cornerback prospect like Porter or Deonte Banks at No. 18. They also have the ammunition to climb a few spots if they’re concerned about missing the top of that class. And Brad Holmes has been unafraid to make aggressive moves up the board before, including in the first round last year. Among the cornerbacks left, I like Porter the most for Detroit. He allowed just 15 catches (on 30 targets) for 143 yards last season. At 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds, the former Penn State star is known for bullying receivers with in-your-face press man. That fits into what the Lions want under Aaron Glenn. That, and a bit of attitude. “The first thing that (I look for in corners) is personality,” Glenn said at the combine. “Like, how do they come in? How confident are they? How do they go about opportunity with the installs? And me personally, I can tell right off the top, is this one of the guys that’s going to get after it because of just the way he operates? There is a certain aura about him, and I would say this about a corner and a receiver, that you can get immediately just from personality-wise.” And personality-wise, Porter’s got it. “I’m a physical press corner who’s going to get in your face and make life miserable for you,” Porter said at the combine. “I’m CB1 for a reason. I’m the best corner here, and I want to show out my skills and prove it here.”) (3-8-23): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/kyle-meinkes-2023-nfl-mock-draft-20-lions-land-tyree-wilson-top-cornerback.html
Yahoo Charles McDonald (6. QB Bryce Young: The Lions have a lot of pieces to be excited about, but they’re still missing their future franchise quarterback. There are concerns about Bryce Young's size, but at this point in the draft he’s a worthy draft pick. 18. CB Deonte Banks: Deonte Banks made himself some money by showing out at the combine this year. Banks checks off all the boxes from a physical standpoint and would give the Lions some pass defense help that they sorely need.) (3-8-23): https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-50-anthony-richardson-vaults-way-up-while-jalen-carter-slides-to-team-that-trades-back-235236989.html
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.) (3-8-23): https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-post-scouting-combine
Fox sports Vacchiano and Arthur (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The Lions need defensive help just about everywhere after tying with the Vikings for the NFL's third-worst scoring defense last season. Christian Gonzalez, who had a great combine, makes a lot of sense here. Detroit needs cornerback help and Jeff Okudah hasn't lived up to the expectations that come with being a No. 3 overall pick, between injuries and production. 18. DE Nolan Smith: The 6-foot-2, 238-pound Smith dazzled at the NFL combine, running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and posting a 41½-inch vertical. He's raw from a production standpoint (he had just three sacks at Georgia last season), but his upside is through the roof. In Detroit he could complement 2022 No. 1 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson and fellow rookie James Houston, who combined for 17.5 sacks last season.) (3-8-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-mock-draft-whats-the-first-round-outlook-after-the-combine
Draft Network Eisner (6. Tyree Wilson EDGE, Texas Tech: A deep corner class may be the tie-breaker that allows Brad Holmes to take the last player in the top tier of EDGEs, Tyree Wilson. Wilson’s wingspan made headlines at the NFL Combine and he would be a great addition to Detroit’s young pass-rush group. Wilson and Aidan Hutchinson can wreak havoc for years to come with James Houston IV serving as fresh legs on passing downs. 18. CB Joey Porter: I didn’t expect Joey Porter Jr. to fall this far when I began this NFL mock draft, but he can’t slide past Detroit. Forget the name, NFL legacy, etc. The Lions need to upgrade their CB room opposite Jeff Okudah and Porter Jr. is highly talented and has insane length. He has warts in his game that need to be addressed—some teams will have him ranked outside their top tier of corners—but with solid coaching, I think the Lions can get the most out of him. 48. Jack Campbell LB, Iowa: I love the fit of Jack Campbell in Detroit. His size and physicality will play well in Aaron Glenn’s defense as a MIKE to build around. 55. Roschon Johnson RB, Texas: I don’t know what the long-term future looks like in Detroit’s backfield. One thing I do know is that Roschon Johnson deserves more love. He has the size and strength of a power rusher but a bit more agility than what that archetype conjures up. Once he emerges from Bijan Robinson’s shadow, he’ll shine.) (3-8-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-nfl-combine/
Dane Brugler (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DT Calijah Kancey) (3-7-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/7/23628930/2023-nfl-post-combine-mock-dane-brugler-todd-mcshay-detroit-lions-christian-gonzalez
NFL.com Zierlein (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: The sixth overall pick would seem like a ripe trade-in spot to get the last of the "big four" quarterbacks, but Detroit sits tight and grabs the ballhawking cornerback out of Illinois.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. RB Bijan Robinson: Let's go! The talented Longhorn back combines power and wiggle -- and he can have a similar impact on an offense to what we saw this past season from Josh Jacobs in Las Vegas. Baller move here, Brad Holmes!) (3-7-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-ravens-trade-lamar-jackson-to-falcons-dra
ESPN McShay (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness) (3-7-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/7/23628930/2023-nfl-post-combine-mock-dane-brugler-todd-mcshay-detroit-lions-christian-gonzalez
Walter football Charlie (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: 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. 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 in the last year of his contract and definitely is 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. 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. 48. Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh: The Lions could use an interior pass rusher. The 6-foot, 281-pound Kancey is an extremely fast interior defender who can fire upfield to get penetration into the pocket. Off the snap, Kancey is extremely explosive, displaying phenomenal first-step quickness. With his rare ability to rush the quarterback from the inside, Kancey is a special prospect. If he were 20 pounds heavier, he would be a top-10 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, but Kancey is very undersized and does not project as a three-down starter capable of holding up in the ground game. Hence, he is a bit of a luxury pick for a team late Round 1 or early in Round and can afford to sell out for a pure inside pass rusher. In 2022, Kancey was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year with seven sacks and 31 tackles. As a sophomore in 2021, he recorded 33 tackles, seven sacks and a forced fumble. 55. LB Demarvion Overshown: 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 its defense. In 2022, Overshown totaled 95 tackles, four sacks and five passes broken up. He recorded 74 tackles, two passes broken up and two sacks in 2021. In 2020, he totaled 60 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and seven passes defended. Overshown is a fast linebacker with crazy track speed and athleticism. He can really run and has coverage potential, but the 6-foot-2, 220-pounder can get destroyed in the ground game and needs to get bigger, stronger and tougher for the NFL. 81. TE Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa: The Lions could use more tight end talent. LaPorta recorded 58 receptions for 657 yards and a touchdown in 2022. A few pro team sources really like LaPorta (6-3, 245) and think he could be a nice value pick in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He is a touch undersized, but definitely has the ability to contribute as a receiving tight end at the next level. LaPorta totaled 53 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns in 2021 after notching 27 receptions for 271 yards and a score in the shortened 2020 season.) (3-6-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023charlie.php
SI NFL Draft Bible (6. QB Anthony Richardson, Florida: "Sizeable height and length for the position, with an intimidating structure. Overly poised for a player with such little experience. Very comfortable in the pocket and has the instinct to step up when it collapses or escape the impending rush." 18. CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia: "On film, it looks like Ringo was built in a lab. He has a great frame, fantastic length and impressive speed. It didn’t matter the receiver’s speed he went up against in man coverage, Ringo was always in the wideouts hip pocket.") (3-6-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-nfl-scouting-combine
USA Today Nate Davis (6. CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon: The football résumé of the All-Pac-12 performer, who had four INTs and seven passes defensed in 2022, was already tip-top. But Gonzalez – plenty big at 6-1, 197 pounds – showcased his explosive athleticism at the combine, running a 4.38 40-yard dash, posting a 41½-inch vertical leap and broad jumping 11 feet, 1 inch. Yes, as satisfied as they seem with QB Jared Goff, this might be the Lions' last best chance to take a young quarterback like Anthony Richardson knowing Goff's contract only runs two more seasons. Barring that, Detroit has to alter what was statistically the league's worst defense in 2022. As disappointing as Jeff Okudah, the No. 3 overall pick in 2020, and these corners have generally been, Gonzalez would address a glaring deficiency. 18. DT Calijah Kancey, Pittsburgh: When you think undersized Pitt interior D-linemen who live behind the line of scrimmage ... OK, OK, let's not saddle Kancey with the Aaron Donald comparison. But let's celebrate the 6-1, 281-pounder who dropped a 4.67-second 40 at the combine after posting 14½ sacks and 27½ TFLs for the Panthers over the past two years combined. Now imagine adding the reigning ACC Defensive Player of the Year to the middle of a Detroit defense featuring Aidan Hutchinson and all the opposing attention he merits on the edge.) (3-6-23): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2023/03/06/nfl-mock-draft-combine-cj-stroud-bryce-young-anthony-richardson/11406717002/
PFN Miller (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Christian Gonzalez, you are a Detroit Lion. It’s a common pick in mock drafts because the Lions need to improve in the secondary after spending a few years building their trenches up. Gonzalez might not have been the best cornerback in college football last season, but his projection to the pro level is scrumptious. His father was a basketball player at Oregon, and his sisters are track stars. When watching him play, it’s clear that Gonzalez hit the genetic lottery. He’s not as clean of a prospect as Patrick Surtain II was, but the way he carries receivers vertically downfield is as effortless as it was for Surtain, who never really looked like he was trying very hard. 18. Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa: The athletic gap between pass rushers and the men blocking them continues to grow. Lukas Van Ness is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound defensive end who just ran a 4.58. Oh, and he has 34-inch arms and 11-inch hands, so length is certainly not an issue in his game, either. Detroit has some bendy pass rushers on the roster already. Because of his size and athleticism, Van Ness can play anywhere from a 4i to a wide 9, playing either with a hand in the dirt or from a two-point stance. No NFL team has ever had too many pass rushers. And a unit of Van Ness, Josh Paschal, Romeo Okwara, and Aidan Hutchinson on third downs could cause night terrors for opposing QBs. 48. LB Jack Campbell. 55. S Jordan Battle. 81. WR A.T. Perry) (3-4-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-colts-and-panthers-make-big-trades-while-titans-draft-will-levis/
Draft wire Easterling (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: This might be the last potential trade-up spot for teams trying to land the last first-round quarterback (getting ahead of the Raiders), but if the Lions don’t get the offer they want, they could easily stand pat and take the best corner in the class. Witherspoon is a complete defender who should immediately be one of the league’s best. 20. Detroit Lions (from SEA)* | Texas RB Bijan Robinson: This pick is all about value, as the Lions throw their bigger needs out the window, and simply add the best player available to their roster. Jamaal Williams is a free agent, and D’Andre Swift has struggled to stay healthy, so adding a top-five overall prospect in Robinson shouldn’t be out of the question if he’s still on the board here. 48. DT Mazi Smith. 55. S Sydney Brown. 81. LB DeMarvion Overshown) (3-2-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-combine-3-rounds-trades-comp-picks-bryce-young-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson-will-levis/
PFN Cummings (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The NFL Combine could solidify Christian Gonzalez‘s stock in the CB1 conversation. With incredibly smooth athleticism and incendiary burst at 6’2″, 200 pounds, he’s the closest thing this CB class has to a blue-chip prospect, and he’d be an immediate upgrade opposite Jeffrey Okudah. 18. Jordan Addison, WR, USC: In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Jordan Addison is the first wide receiver off the board, heading to the Detroit Lions. With his spry lateral agility, twitch, and burst, he could be a versatile weapon in the short range for offensive coordinator Ben Johnson while also providing the receiving chops to work downfield.) (3-2-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anthony-richardson-rises-nfl-combine/
Draft Network Parson (9. Detroit Lions (via CAR)* CB Joey Porter Jr. (TRADE - DET receives: Pick No. 9, Pick No. 93, 2024 1st-round pick. CAR receives: Pick No. 6): The Lions’ offense was not an issue in 2022, it was the defensive side of the ball. Jeff Okudah returned from an ACL injury and played good football. He did not have much assistance on the opposite side of the field. Joey Porter Jr. has the physical tools and traits that you cannot teach. Porter Jr. and Okudah would be a nice tandem to build around in that defensive secondary. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness: The pursuit of creating a more talented defensive unit for DC Aaron Glenn continues. Aidan Hutchinson was a force off the edge as a rookie and I love pairing him with Lukas Van Ness. This gives the Lions two non-stop and relentless edge defenders to collapse the edges around opposing quarterbacks. Lukas Van Ness is raw with his hands, but Hutchinson is a master technician and could be a teacher for his fellow Big Ten rusher. 49. Darnell Washington TE, Georgia: Darnell Washington blocks like a sixth offensive lineman that can run the seam and deep overs off play-action. Have fun, Detroit. 55. Jack Campbell LB, Iowa: Linebacker is a need for this Lions’ defensive unit. Jack Campbell embodies the tough and physical style of play set by head coach Dan Campbell.) (3-2-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anthony-richardson-qb1/
NFL.com Brooks (6. DE Myles Murphy: Adding another young pass rusher to a unit that already features Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston could put the 2023 Lions over the top and into the playoffs. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: This ultra-competitive cover corner is the sticky man-to-man defender the Lions need to match up with the playmakers within their division.) (2-28-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-raiders-snag-qb-will-levis-cowboys-chiefs-a
CBS Sullivan (6. QB Anthony Richardson: As we noted in the intro, Detroit likely won't have many cracks at finding a franchise QB inside the top 10 by looking at how its rebuild is going, so the Lions are proactive and bring aboard Richardson. With Goff established, the Lions can allow Richardson to develop for a season before possibly handing him the keys to the franchise. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness: Detroit made its move for the future with Richardson and comes back around to build on one of its strengths by taking a pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. Van Ness did not start at Iowa, but has the physical tools that allow him to have a high ceiling at the next level.) (2-28-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-lions-snag-anthony-richardson-early-in-first-round-colts-trade-up-to-no-1/
ESPN Kiper (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. LB Drew Sanders) (2-28-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-take-cb-lb-mel-kiper-nfl-mock-draft
PFN Fragoza (11. Detroit Lions (From TEN): Brian Branch, DB, Alabama: The Lions are in position to snatch the NFC North from the Vikings and Packers. Brian Branch can thrive in the slot while also moonlighting as a safety, giving Dan Campbell and Co. a versatile chess piece to pair with Jeff Okudah in the secondary.) (2-28-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-mock-draft-2023-jalen-ramsey-aaron-rodgers-and-other-big-names-on-the-move/
O'Hara (6. DE Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech. But don't forget Skoronski. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez: At 6-2, and with long arms, cornerback Christian Gonzalez is an imposing athlete. His Combine could be special. That's why I picked him at No. 6 in my first mock.) (2-27-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-mock-draft-2-0-new-picks-for-lions-at-6-18-wilson-gonzalez-bresee
PFF Sikkema (6. CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon (2022 PFF Grade: 81.2. PFF Big Board Rank: 10): This is a popular spot for Illinois cornerback Devon Witherspoon. But for as much as I love Witherspoon, I wonder if there will be some size concerns with him, especially when the debate is between him and Gonzalez, who boasts ideal measurables at 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds. You can’t go wrong with either, but I opted for Gonzalez as the top cornerback off the board in this mock. PFF Draft Guide Bottom Line: Gonzalez is the total package physically. He has All-Pro tools but just needs a little refinement to get there. 18. DB Brian Branch, Alabama (2022 PFF Grade: 89.5. PFF Big Board Rank: 9): The Lions are attacking the secondary with their first-round picks in this mock. It’s not a common outcome for them, but considering how depleted their secondary looked last season and the kind of talents Gonzalez and Brian Branch are, it would be an immediate upgrade. PFF Draft Guide Bottom Line: Branch is a very high-floor defender with a skill set that can fit into every defense in the NFL. 48. DT Mazi Smith, Michigan. 55. WR Cedric Tillman, Tennessee) (2-27-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-two-round-mock-draft-bryce-young-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson
Draft wire Miller (16. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon fits the mold of everything Dan Campbell wants in a player, and also fills a need for the Lions, so it’s a home run to take the physical, shutdown corner out of Illinois. Stick him in as a starter from Day 1 to lay the wood in the secondary for Detroit. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness: Van Ness is a physical phenomenon who can play on the edge or kick inside on this already stacked Detroit defensive line. Though he was not a starter for the Hawkeyes, his upside is ridiculous, and the tape shows a guy who can get to the quarterback and take over a game.) (2-26-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-trades-nfl-combine-bryce-young-cj-stround-anthony-richardson-will-levis/
CBS Fornelli (6. DE Myles Murphy: Adding Aidan Hutchinson last season was a boost to the Detroit defense, but there's no need to stop adding more to the pass rush possibilities. Murphy's performance at the combine could make or break his draft stock, but he's scheme versatile, so plenty of teams will see ways they can fit him in. 18. CB Joey Porter: The Lions are happy the Steelers opted to skip the family reunion because that allows them to take Porter instead and continue to improve their defense. Porter hits every measurable you want at the position and has excellent ball skills. Also, given who his father is, you won't be surprised to learn he doesn't shy away from physicality.) (2-25-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-free-agency-mock-draft-2023-jimmy-garoppolo-to-dolphins-derek-carr-to-commanders-and-30-other-moves/
PFN Broback (9. Detroit Lions (via CAR) - CB Christian Gonzalez: Jeff Okudah gives Detroit a great corner on their defense, but pairing him with another potential star would spark more excitement into this franchise. The defense is full of guys that play hard, but the Lions need to find a way to elevate the talent level. Christian Gonzalez is trending upward after this year. He’s considered the best athlete of all the corners in this class, and his film shows why. Pairing Okudah and Gonzalez gives the Lions two potential lockdown corners, and that helps a team that’s looking to make even more noise in the NFC North. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: There aren’t many players that fit better into Dan Campbell’s culture than Bryan Bresee. Injuries will be his primary concern, but a healthy Bresee gives the Lions a monster on the inside of the line. His strength and power shine the brightest, but he’s an underrated athlete that can chase down ball carriers too.) (2-24-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bears-trade-back-to-draft-will-anderson-jr-quentin-johnston/
Draft Network Sanchez (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The Lions finished the year as one of the hottest teams in the NFL and have clearly placed themselves in the running for the NFC North crown next year. But they need to fix a defense that was one of the worst units in the NFL. They start to fix that by addressing the back end and drafting Oregon CB Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez may be the best athlete of all the corners in this class and has the ability to play lockdown man-to-man coverage. Gonzalez paired with Jeff Okudah should give the Lions a nice young pair moving forward. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: It is clear that Dan Campbell has a very specific culture that he is trying to cultivate and Bryan Breese fits that perfectly. Breese is a tough, hard-nosed player that is also extremely talented. The opportunity to draft Breese is a steal for the Lions and also the perfect fit for Campbell and this staff. 49. LB Henry To’o To’o: Henry To’o To’o is one of the most instinctive players in this draft and the Lions need help at the LB position. To’o To’o is an instant plug-and-play type of player. 55. TE Dalton Kincaid: The Lions have a good young receiving corps but they traded away T.J. Hockenson last year. With this pick, I believe they add another tight end to give Jared Goff another target to utilize this upcoming season.) (2-23-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-super-bowl-path/
PFN Pauline (6. CB Joey Porter Jr.: The Lions have to reinforce their leaky defense. With uncertainty at both defensive tackle and cornerback, they have a few intriguing options. Joey Porter Jr. is an impact corner with great size, and his development should benefit from the Lions’ player-centric staff. 18. TE Luke Musgrave: There are a lot of teams who like Luke Musgrave more than Mayer. He’s a downfield weapon at the tight end position. Detroit’s offense can continue building an impressive vertical attack with Musgrave surrounded by Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown.) (2-22-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qbs-will-levis-and-anthony-richardson-slide-in-first-round/
FTW D'Andrea (9. Detroit Lions (via projected trade with the Panthers): CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon (Team needs: CB, S, LB, DT, QB): Gonzalez was very good at the University of Colorado and then elite after transferring to Oregon, exploding for four interceptions and seven passes defensed in his lone season as a Duck. He’s a big cornerback at 6-foot-2 who also brings lightning fast speed to the table and could make an immediate Tariq Woolen-like impact for a Lions defense that ranked 23rd against the pass in 2022. He’s also a steady tackler capable of shedding blocks to stop plays before they can break free for long gains — another asset Detroit can use in its quest to cap off its expedited rebuild under Dan Campbell. 18. DT Bryan Bresee, Clemson (Team needs: CB, S, LB, DT, QB): The Lions could double-dip at corner here or reach for a high-ceiling pass rusher like Nolan Smith or Lukas Van Ness. Instead, they get a player Dan Campbell is gonna appreciate the hell out of in Bresee, a role-filling defensive lineman capable of lining up in multiple slots and creating the chaos that allows teammates to thrive. The 300-pound tackle/end is big enough to occupy multiple blockers but fast and strong enough to shoot gaps and blow up plays before they can get started. Detroit ranked ninth in pressure rate but just 18th in sacks last season. Having Bresee to shrink pockets from the inside out alongside Alim McNeill will help turn those pressures into negative, drive-killing plays for an ascendant Lions team.) (2-22-23): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-2023-bears-trades-colts-texans-bryce-young-cj-stroud
NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (6. DE Myles Murphy: Aidan Hutchinson was a home run pick last year, and fellow rookie James Houston IV was very productive in limited playing time. Murphy would give the Lions three outstanding young edge rushers. 18. QB Anthony Richardson: The Lions have the perfect situation for Richardson as he enters the league. He can sit behind Jared Goff for at least a year and then provide the rewards that come from building a team around a quarterback playing on his rookie contract.) (2-21-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-tyree-wilson-goes-before-will-anderson-j
CBS Podell (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon possesses fantastic field vision, anticipating throws and jumping passing lanes by reading a quarterback's movements. He is extremely agile in coverage downfield with plenty of speed to keep up on vertical routes. Witherspoon plays with an attitude and plenty of energy as a willing, physical tackler, not something that can be said of all cornerbacks. He plays with the kind of attitude a Dan Campbell defender needs to bring to the table. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: Defense, defense, defense in Detroit. Pairing Bresee on the interior with last year's second overall pick Aidan Hutchinson gives the team two building blocks up front to go along with Devon Witherspoon and the improved Jeff Okudah on the back end.) (2-21-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-2023-mock-draft-bears-stay-at-no-1-and-go-defense-raiders-find-derek-carrs-replacement/
SI Kevin Hansen (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DT Bryan Bresee) (2-17-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-target-gonzalez-bresee-si-mock-draft
NFLRealGm (6. Detroit Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia. The Lions need a centerpiece to their bright young defense and Carter makes for a potentially dominant one. Carter’s high-end talent trumps the lower position value for Detroit, where the young defense is emerging nicely.Detroit Lions: 18. Brian Branch, S, Alabama. The slot DB role has been a serious problem for the Lions for years. Branch steps right in as a slot safety who can cover and also upgrade the off-tackle and QB run defense, which was the single biggest problem for Detroit’s D in 2022.Lions: 49. Eli Ricks, CB, AlabamaLions: 55. Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA) (2-17-23): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3546/2023-NFL-Mock-Draft-Post-Super-Bowl-Edition
NBC Sports edge Dvorchak (6. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: A year after adding Aidan Hutchinson to their defensive line, the Lions are in desperate need of help in their secondary. Devon Witherspoon and Joey Porter are both candidates to go here, but the mild consensus seems to have Gonzalez as the top corner in the draft. 18. Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa: The Lions are likely looking at taking a pass-rusher and a corner with their two first-round picks. Given their investment in Hutchinson, it makes sense for them to hold off on another EDGE until the second time they take the podium.) (2-17-23): https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/mock-drafts/dvorchaks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-10
NFL.com Reuter (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Usually there's a cornerback who takes a big leap (figuratively and literally) at the NFL Scout Combine -- my guess is that's Gonzalez this year. The Oregon defender's size (6-2, 201) and athleticism will likely impress scouts, who, if they haven't devoured it already, will then turn to the tape where they'll see aggressive play and very good ball skills. Gonzalez could help alleviate some of the pressure on the Lions' previous top-10 corner selection, Jeff Okudah. 18. TE Michael Mayer: Mayer might end up as the second tight end off the board because he is not as quick-twitch as Dalton Kincaid and others at his position. The Lions happily select the Notre Dame standout, though, as his reliability as a pass-catcher and tenacious blocking remind me of Ravens star Mark Andrews. 48. LB Noah Sewell. 55. RB Zach Charbonnet. 81. QB Tanner McKee) (2-13-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/three-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-six-trades-spice-up-round-1-bears-involved-i
PFF Renner (6. CB DEVON WITHERSPOON, ILLINOIS: Head coach Dan Campbell is going to take one look at Witherspoon’s tape and demand he be a Detroit Lion. Witherspoon is the feistiest cornerback in the draft, and he got after it in press coverage last season. He allowed only one yard from a press alignment all year. The Lions ran the fourth-most press snaps on defense last season, meaning Witherspoon should feel at home right away. 18. QB ANTHONY RICHARDSON, FLORIDA: The first round couldn’t shake out too much better for Detroit if this is how it goes. They get a defensive cornerstone with their first pick and a special developmental prospect to be the quarterback of the future with their second. Oh, and Richardson is so special athletically that offensive coordinator Ben Johnson can get him involved in certain packages without him being the starter.) (2-13-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-post-super-bowl-2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-will-levis-cj-stroud
Foxsports McIntyre (6. Detroit Lions via L.A. Rams: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama: Yes, Jared Goff was terrific last year in Detroit. He also carries the 18th-largest cap hit next year, and then 14th biggest in 2024. Look at how the Eagles and 49ers have built their rosters around QBs on their rookie deals. Detroit gets in position to do that by taking Young. The OL is elite, and the skill position players are very good. The OC is top five in the NFL. 18. Detroit Lions: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: The 6-foot-2 corner has started every game in college since his freshman year - first at Colorado, then at Oregon. He'd instantly start opposite Jeff Okudah.) (2-13-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/post-super-bowl-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-slips-out-of-top-five
Draft Network Weissman (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Devon Witherspoon is a player I recently did a deep dive on and I came away super impressed. You don’t see many corners with the foot quickness and fluid hips to stay attached in man coverage while also displaying elite instincts and toughness. He is the total package at corner and his toughness and tenacity will be a welcomed addition to this hard-nosed Lions team. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: In every NFL mock draft I write, I struggle to find a place for Bijan Robinson—a player who, as it stands, is my highest-graded prospect in this class. I get running backs usually don’t go in the top 10 and this year’s running back free-agent pool is quite strong. With that said, Robinson is special and any team that has the conviction to take him will be rewarded. The Lions make a ton of sense as they love to run the football and Jamaal Williams may leave in free agency.) (2-12-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-no-trades/
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
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
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
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/
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 Wilson: 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 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
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/
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
Round 1 Pick 1 (38 CB, 13 DE, 6 QB, 4 DT):
23 CB Christian Gonzalez
9 CB Devon Witherspoon
8 DE Tyree Wilson
4 DE Myles Murphy
4 CB Joey Porter
2 DT Bryan Bresee
2 DT Jalen Carter
2 CB Brian Branch
2 QB Bryce Young
2 QB Anthony Richardson
1 QB CJ Stroud
1 QB Will Levis
1 DE Will Anderson
Round 1 Pick 2 (19 CB, 13 DE, 9 DT, 8 RB, 6 TE, 2 LB, 2 QB, 1 WR):
8 DE Lukas Van Ness
8 RB Bijan Robinson
7 DT Bryan Bresee
5 CB Brian Branch
4 TE Michael Mayer
4 CB Devon Witherspoon
3 CB Joey Porter
3 CB Christian Gonzalez
2 CB Deonte Banks
2 CB Kelee Ringo
2 QB Anthony Richardson
2 DT Calijah Kancey
2 DE Nolan Smith
2 DE Myles Murphy
2 LB Trenton Simpson
1 WR Jordan Addison
1 DE Tyree Wilson
1 TE Dalton Kincaid
1 TE Luke Musgrave
1 LB Drew Sanders
Round 2 Pick 1 (7 LB, 4 DT, 4 TE, 1 CB, 1 OT):
3 LB Jack Campbell
2 DT Mazi Smith
2 DT Calijah Kancey
2 TE Darnell Washington
1 LB Noah Sewell
1 LB Henry To'oTo'o
1 LB Daiyan Henley
1 CB Eli Ricks
1 LB Trenton Simpson
1 TE Sam LaPorta
1 TE Michael Mayer
Round 2 Pick 2 (4 TE, 4 LB, 2 S, 2 RB, 1 WR, 1 CB, 1 DE):
2 TE Luke Musgrave
1 LB Jack Campbell
1 LB DeMarvion Overshown
1 LB Henry To'oTo'o
1 LB Daiyan Henley
1 TE Tucker Kraft
1 TE Dalton Kincaid
1 CB Garrett Williams
1 S Sydney Brown
1 S Jordan Battle
1 RB Zach Charbonnet
1 RB Roschon Johnson
1 WR Cedric Tillman
1 DE Tuli Tuipulotu
Round 3 (3 WR, 2 QB, 2 S, 1 TE, 1 RB, 1 DT, 1 LB):
1 TE Sam LaPorta
1 WR A.T. Perry
1 WR Xavier Hutchinson
1 WR Parker Washington
1 QB Stetson Bennett
1 QB Tanner McKee
1 S Brandon Joseph
1 S Chris Smith
1 RB Zach Charbonnet
1 LB DeMarvion Overshown
Round 5 (1 WR, 1 QB):
1 WR Andrei Iosivas
1 QB Jake Haener
Round 6 Pick 1 (1 DT):
1 DT Kobie Turner
Round 6 Pick 2 (1 QB, 1 LB):
1 QB Clayton Tune
1 LB Cam Jones
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