2023 Mock Draft Round Up #27

PFN Mellor Final Mock (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  The best pure man coverage cornerback in the class, Christian Gonzalez is the easy pick here, and the Detroit Lions need an answer at the position. Flashing brilliance in his lone season at Oregon, Gonzalez put forth a teach-tape clinic in each game as the season progressed.  18. DT Bryan Bresee:  Bryan Bresee has the heart of a fighter, and he’ll keep pushing pockets and stuffing run lanes for the Detroit Lions. Bresee fits the bill of a Lions defender and stops his slide here.  18.  48. DE Tuli Tuipulotu:  Doing incredible work off the edge, Tuli Tuipulotu has the strength to play inside and the speed to line up outside. That versatility will play well with Bresee, the Lions’ second first-round pick.  55. S JL Skinner:  A massive safety with surprising coverage ability, JL Skinner fits the bill of a Lions’ defender perfectly. Skinner lays the lumber over the middle and times his bursts to the football with near perfection.  81. TE Tucker Kraft.  152. WR Charles Jones.  159. WR Michael Wilson.  183. WR Ronnie Bell.  194.  QB Clayton Tune) (4-16-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-panthers-c-j-stroud-texans-bryce-young-colts-anthony-richardson/

CBS Kerr (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  The Lions would have been more than ideal for Carter, but they could certainly use an impact edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. Is Wilson a reach at No. 6? He certainly has the arm reach and wingspan to dominate at the next level, especially since he won't be getting the double team with Hutchinson next to him. Adding moves to his repertoire, Wilson could use his raw power to control the game on the edge. This is another trade down candidate to a quarterback-needy team.  18. TE Dalton Kincaid:  This is a luxury pick for the Lions, who could trade down and stockpile more picks for this draft (or in 2024). With Kincaid on the board and Detroit needing a tight end to improve an already good offense, the Lions don't hesitate to get arguably the best catching tight end in the draft. Kincaid's ability in the slot would be dangerous for defenses, which already have to worry about stopping Amon-Ra St. Brown.) (4-15-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-afc-contender-lands-bijan-robinson-eagles-finally-draft-rb-in-first-round/

PFN Yates (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  The Lions just sent away Jeff Okudah, which means that CB is right back at the top of their team needs list. Emmanuel Moseley and Cameron Sutton were fantastic additions in free agency, but depth at cornerback is crucial in today’s NFL.  Devon Witherspoon fits what Dan Campbell wants in a cornerback so well. He’s sticky in man coverage, tenacious, and he plays more physical than you would expect for a player that’s only 181 pounds. Witherspoon’s addition to this secondary makes Detroit’s defense a young and terrifying unit to deal with in the NFC North.  18 DE Lukas Van Ness:  Dan Campbell might run through a wall like the Kool-Aid Man if Lukas Van Ness is still here on the board for them at pick 18. The Iowa EDGE is a projection at the next level, but he’s tough as nails and packs a mighty punch when attempting to get to the quarterback.  Despite not playing all that much at Iowa — due to coaching philosophy — Van Ness consistently showed his power and ability to disrupt the pocket, whether out at 5-tech or kicking inside. A pass-rushing duo of Aidan Hutchinson and Van Ness, with Sam Houston rotating in, is scary.) (4-14-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anderson-texans-robinson-falcons-smith-njigba-eagles/

CBS Stackpole (3. QB Anthony Richardson:  Mock Trade from Arizona Cardinals.  Jared Goff is serviceable, solid even, for a team on the rise in a NFC that has a bunch of unknowns after the Eagles. But getting Anthony Richardson for the long-term is too good to pass up, even though it costs some draft capital to move up three spots.  18. DT Bryan Bresee:  Dan Campbell and company take Bryan Bresee believing the No. 1 high school recruit can reach his potential in Detroit.) (4-14-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-eagles-move-all-over-the-board-and-land-bijan-robinson-patriots-trade-into-top-10/

NFL.com Davis (6. DT Jalen Carter:  Character concerns aside, the raw talent is undeniable. And the culture that the Lions have built in a short time under GM Brad Holmes and HC Dan Campbell makes Detroit a perfect landing spot for the former Bulldog.  18. RB Bijan Robinson:  I have to believe the best running back in this year's class will be considered multiple times in the first half of Round 1. He makes it to the Lions at No. 18 here, giving the Motor City two of the top five overall prospects on my colleague Daniel Jeremiah's big board.) (4-13-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/charles-davis-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-titans-select-anthony-richardson-ravens-ta

Fox sports Vitali and Helman (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Truthfully, we thought about being an agent of chaos and giving the Lions a quarterback, but the top four are off the board already and the Lions don't have to reach. Quarterback Jared Goff played one of the best seasons of his career last year and is still only 28. They can continue with him for the foreseeable future. The quarterback class next year looks even better than this one, and who knows? Maybe they can finesse a trade down with this pick to arm themselves in anticipation of 2024 with this pick.  For now, I have them further addressing the back level of the defense. Between adding Cam Sutton in free agency and now Kerby Joseph's former teammate, they look set in the secondary, which was a major weak spot in 2022.  18. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba:  Speaking of fun things: This a fun thing. The Lions don't have an immediate need at wide receiver with Amon-Ra St. Brown leading the way. Jameson Williams should be 100% by next season. Why not throw in his old college teammate and call it a day? That would give Detroit the depth they need at wide receiver to make their high-flying offense sustainable. And did I mention it would just be fun?) (4-13-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-shakeup-at-the-top-how-do-free-agents-affect-choices

CBS Edwards (6. DT Jalen Carter:  With this pick, the Lions feel their locker room is capable of handling any maturity or character issues Carter may have. On the field, they need a big-time talent next to Alim McNeill at defensive tackle.  13. CB Christian Gonzalez:  Mock Trade from New York Jets.  The Lions mean business, and after trading Jeff Okudah and grabbing Carter at No. 6 overall, they make an ascension to pick the athletic Gonzalez who had three outstanding seasons in the Pac-12 at Colorado and Oregon.) (4-13-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-nfc-team-trades-up-for-anthony-richardson-top-wr-prospect-falls-to-end-of-round-1/

SI NFL Draft Sirretella (6.  DT Jalen Carter: With a strong leadership presence in tact, Detroit should be in a position to select Carter if they feel comfortable with his recent legal transgressions. Pairing Carter with last year’s rookie sensations in, Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston would be a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Carter can help the Lions take the next step as legitimate playoff contenders.  18. Detroit Lions: TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame – Does Dan Campbell see a bit of himself in Mayer? Would the former, feisty, scrappy tight end allow the Lions' war room to submit a draft card into the league office with any player other than Mayer on it? This seems to be a great fit, another bonafide target for Jared Goff, who can also help out in the run game and a player who fits the blue collar DNA inside the locker room.  48. OG Cody Mauch.  55. LB Noah Sewell) (4-12-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/serritella-2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-combine-edition

NFL.com Rhett Lewis (6. DT Jalen Carter:  Carter’s off-the-field troubles send him falling into the Lions’ lap and under the workmanlike tutelage of head coach Dan Campbell, who might have just the right temperament to maximize Carter’s supreme talent.  18. TE Dalton Kincaid:  Detroit's roster has seen major improvements under GM Brad Holmes. Consequently, the Lions are in a good spot here to take the best player remaining on their board. For me, that'd be Kincaid, who is the top tight end in a stellar positional crop. Kincaid gives Jared Goff a big, physical target to pair with young receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.) (4-12-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/rhett-lewis-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-bijan-robinson-cracks-top-10-ravens-add-anot

CBS Trapasso (6. DT Jalen Carter:  With this pick, the Lions feel their locker room is capable of handling any maturity or character issues Carter may have. On the field, they need a big-time talent next to Alim McNeill at defensive tackle.  13.  CB Christian Gonzalez:  Mock Trade from New York Jets.  The Lions mean business, and after trading Jeff Okudah and grabbing Carter at No. 6 overall, they make an ascension to pick the athletic Gonzalez who had three outstanding seasons in the Pac-12 at Colorado and Oregon.) (4-12-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-commanders-trade-up-for-qb-falcons-move-back-take-skill-player/

SI NFL Draft Marchionte (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Witherspoon’s demeanor is a match made in Heaven in unison with Lions head coach Dan Campbell. A feisty corner who thrived at shutting down opponents’ top pass catchers this past season puts Witherspoon in an ideal spot to leap over Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez as the top defensive back drafted in 2023. The Lions are going to be tempted to add pieces up front with so much talent on the draft board in terms of edge rushers. The signing of Cam Sutton doesn’t take the focus off a player like Witherspoon. The Lions traded Jeff Okudah, the third overall pick in 2020, to the Falcons for a fifth round pick on April 11th, which should bolster the team's view to grab a defensive back.  18. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba:  The Lions had no issues scoring points last season and that was without coveted rookie Jameson Williams playing in only six games while recovering from his leg injury. Smith-Njigba, Williams, and Amon-Ra St. Brown create a mighty offensive unit. Sprinkle in their open space juggernaut D’Andre Swift and newly signed former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery and the Lions are going to be downright scary.) (4-12-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-bijan-robinson-cracks-top-ten

Athlon sports Easterling (6. DT Jalen Carter:  Much like the Seahawks, the Lions are sitting pretty as a playoff-caliber team with a pick they got from someone else, watching one of the two best players fall into their lap thanks to the quarterback run at the top of the board.  A player of Carter's caliber has no business lasting this long, but his legal situation could contribute to his eventual draft slot. If he's still on the board here, though, the combination of need and value could be too much for the Lions to pass up.  18. QB Hendon Hooker:  Somebody's gonna take this plunge in the first round, and the Lions make the most sense. They've done a great job at filling their biggest needs in free agency (and adding Jalen Carter earlier in this projection), freeing them up to spend this pick on a luxury of sorts.  Hooker will be a 25-year-old rookie coming off a late-season torn ACL, but the Lions can afford to be patient with him, letting him get back to full strength while waiting behind a veteran starter in Jared Goff. Before the injury, Hooker was the Heisman Trophy front-runner, and has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback at full strength.  48.  CB Emmanuel Forbes.  55.  LB Jack Campbell.  81. S Sydney Brown) (4-12-23):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/nfl-mock-draft-3-rounds-trades-aaron-rodgers-derrick-henry-anthony-richardson#gid=ci02bca13a7000253f&pid=2nd-round

Tankathon (6. DT Jalen Carter.  18. CB Deonte Banks.  48. LB Trenton Simpson.  55. TE Tucker Kraft.  81.  WR Marvin Mims  81. WR Nathaniel Dell) (4-12-23):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft

PFN Pauline (6. DT Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  The Jalen Carter watch begins with the Lions. I haven’t heard Detroit won’t select Carter at this spot, and while that may yet happen, this pick is great value for the team. Carter is a freakish presence who can slide into a barren Lions’ front seven and anchor the unit for years.  18.  Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  A top cornerback wouldn’t be surprising at this spot if one happens to fall. However, an athletic, down-the-field pass-catching tight end is needed, and Dan Campbell will fall in love with Dalton Kincaid.) (4-11-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-colts-grab-richardson-seahawks-land-carter-bijan-robinson-to-bills/

ESPN Kiper (6. DE Will Anderson.  18. Bijan Robinson) (4-11-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/mel-kiper-has-alabama-star-will-anderson-falling-to-lions-in-new-mock-draft.html

SI Kevin Hansen (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  Rookies Aidan Hutchinson (9.5) and James Houston (eight) combined for 17.5 sacks last season in Detroit, but you can never have too many pass rushers. Wilson has an excellent combination of size, length and power. He finished his most productive season with 50 pressures, per PFF, and 61 tackles, 14 TFLs and seven sacks despite a foot injury that cut it short.  18.  TE Michael Mayer:  Mayer has plenty of experience playing in-line and is the most complete tight end in this draft class. His all-around skill set would help the Lions in both the passing and running game. Mayer was the focal point of Notre Dame’s passing offense as he led the team in receiving in each of his three seasons in South Bend.) (4-11-23):   https://www.si.com/nfl/2023/04/11/nfl-mock-draft-quarterback-trades-colts-buccaneers-vikings#gid=ci02bc785b20002453&pid=1

Walter Football (6. RB Bijan Robinson:  Charlie Campbell mocked Bijan Robinson to the Lions often throughout the pre-draft process, and it's easy to see why. The Lions signed David Montgomery, but he's a replacement for Jamaal Williams. Detroit wants a true home run hitter at the position, which was supposed to be D'Andre Swift, who hasn't been able to stay healthy.  Robinson is going to be another running back chosen early in the draft, much like Saquon Barkley, who went No. 2 overall. All of his attributes are at sky-high levels. Sources have told Campbell that Robinson is the best player in this class, so he's a potential top-10 pick. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon:  I think the Lions will choose a running back with this pick unless they do so at No. 6. If they take Bijan Robinson at No. 6, they can go after their linebacking corps or secondary. The former needs a major overhaul, but the best player available bolsters the cornerback group even further.  Devon Witherspoon is not quite six feet, but he has incredible speed. His injury concerns could drop him into the teens or 20s. See where he ranks in our 2023 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings.  48. LB Daiyan Henley:  The Lions have a poor linebacking corps, so I expect them to address the position at some point in the first two rounds.  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:  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.  152. WR Elijah Higgins:  The Lions will be searching for another receiver to pair with Jameson Willams and Amon-Ra St. Brown.  Elijah Higgins has nice speed and an ability to separate.) (4-11-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023.php

Walter football Charlie (6. RB Bijan Robinson:  After signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley, the Lions do not have take a cornerback at No. 6 in the 2023 NFL Draft. Christian Gonzalez, Devon Witherspoon and Joey Porter Jr. all have flaws that leave many league evaluators saying they feel that none of them is worthy of going in the top 10. Lions general manager Brad Holmes has not reached, and if he follows the board, Robinson is the top player available. Robinson could be a dominant back behind the Detroit offensive line and form a dynamite tandem with David Montgomery. Holmes was part of drafting Todd Gurley in the first round with the Rams, and Holmes saw how Gurley led the way for Jared Goff to get to a Super Bowl. Robinson could be a superstar in Detroit.  Over the process, 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 5-foot-11, 215-pound Robinson has power, speed, cutting ability, and natural instincts as a runner. Team sources also say he possesses outstanding character.  18. LB Jack Campbell:  The Lions missed the playoffs last year because of losses where they couldn't stop running backs and mobile quarterbacks - e.g. against Carolina, Philadelphia. Detroit needs a linebacker upgrade to go with Alex Anzalone.  Team sources really like Campbell and think he will go in the back half of the first round in the 2023 NFL Draft. They call him a taller version of Chad Muma and say he does some things that remind them of Luke Kuechly. The 6-foot-5, 249-pound Campbell has good size, strength, and enough athleticism to be a three-down starter. Campbell is very instinctive, smart, and showed more fluid pass-coverage skills than expected at the combine. In 2022, he collected 125 tackles, one pass batted, one sack, one forced fumble and two interceptions. 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.  48. TE Sam LaPorta:  Detroit was smart to trade T.J. Hockenson. He is an overrated player who is nearing a contract extension and wants to among the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL. Getting two second-day picks - '23 and '24 - for Hockenson from a division rival was a steal. While Brock Wright and James Mitchell flashed last season, the Lions could use one more tight end.  LaPorta recorded 58 receptions for 657 yards and a touchdown in 2022. A number of team sources say they really like LaPorta (6-3, 245) and think he could be a steal in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft - provided he doesn't sneak into the bottom of Round 1. LaPorta is a touch undersized, but definitely has the ability to contribute as a receiving tight end at the next level. That was given further proof at the combine, where LaPorta ran fast and looked fantastic at running routes. Teams think he could be a dangerous receiving tight end in the NFL. 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.  55. DT Calijah Kancey:  The Lions could use a three-technique 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 2 that 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.  81. CB Cam Mitchell:  The Lions continue to build up the talent in their secondary.  Mitchell went under the radar in 2022 because the Wildcats were utterly terrible, but NFL sources noticed that Mitchell played really well. He recorded 52 tackles, one interception, nine passes batted, one forced fumble and one sack on the year. The 5-foot-11, 191-pounder has good size to go along with instincts and physicality. Team sources like Mitchell's versatility with the ability to play corner or safety. Mitchell is sleeper who could be an early-round pick during the 2023 NFL Draft.  152. CB Riley Moss) (4-10-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023charlie.php

PFF Monson (11. Detroit Lions (Via Ten): CB Joey Porter Jr - The Lions trading back from No. 6 makes me feel a lot better about grabbing a cornerback at this spot. Most people would have Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez here, but I worry about a lot of his game. Joey Porter Jr. is the best press-man cornerback in the draft, but he has plenty of zone ability, as well. Over the past two seasons, he earned an 80.0-plus PFF coverage grade in zone coverage.  18. CB Christian Gonzalez:  I am far lower on Christian Gonzalez than most — a player with sick movement skills and elite athleticism but who never allowed a passer rating lower than 74.7 in his college career. There’s significant risk attached to his projection, and I feel a lot better about that gamble if I’m playing with house money the way Detroit would be here having already drafted Porter. This is the type of double-dip that could pay off down the line for a team looking to have long-term, sustained success.) (4-10-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-mock-draft-panthers-anthony-richardson-cj-stroud-slides

Fantasy Pro Nystrom (6. CB Devon Witherspoon.  18. DT Bryan Bresee) (4-10-23):  https://www.fantasypros.com/2023/04/2023-nfl-mock-draft-thor-nystroms-two-round-predictions-player-comps-2-0/

NFL Wire (6. DE Will Anderson:  Anderson is the highest-end pass rusher in this draft. Pairing him with last year’s rookie sack champ, Aidan Hutchinson, would give the Lions an amazing young EDGE bookends that could wreak havoc on the league. Anderson falling to six is an incredible case of good fortune for Detroit, though there are some minor concerns with Anderson’s decline in production from 2021 to 2022. He’s an all-around talent worthy of the Lions trading up from ix to acquire, a “sprint to the podium” kind of pick for Lions GM Brad Holmes. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire.  18. CB Deonte Banks:  The Lions play press-man coverage on the outside more than any other defense. Banks is a press-man specialist with elite length and steadily improving technique. Add in his inherent physicality and Banks’ raw speed and it’s an easy, natural fit. Even though the Lions added a lot to the secondary this offseason, Detroit only has Cameron Sutton and Jerry Jacobs under contractual control after 2023 at cornerback.  – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire.  48. QB Hendon Hooker:  Hooker would be long gone by this point if he was healthy. The torn ACL that will likely sideline the 25-year-old for at least some of his rookie campaign is a complicating factor. The Lions are set with Jared Goff starting, so they can afford to give Hooker a redshirt NFL season and teach him how to read more advanced defenses. Hooker’s downfield accuracy, poised pocket presence, confident leadership and ability to make plays with his legs make him an optimal fit for coordinator Ben Johnson’s creative, aggressive offense in Detroit. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire.  55. DT Keeanu Benton:  The Lions’ biggest need on defense for 2023 is at tackle, specifically a stout presence who smothers the run while also providing some interior pass rush. That’s Benton. He wears his “grit factor” proudly on his broad shoulders just as Lions head coach Dan Campbell rocks the “Grit” hat. Benton can play either DT spot, joining young Alim McNeill in giving the Lions the ability to mix-and-match along the line to create better matchups. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire) (4-10-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-trades-titans-packers-bryce-young-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson-will-levis/

CBS Dajani (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  Dan Campbell lands a QB kneecap-biter. The Texas Tech product recorded the most pressures in the Big 12 last year with 50 despite missing three games. Wilson had the highest pressure rate in the conference as well (20.7%). Boosting the defense is going to be important for Detroit this offseason.  18. WR Jordan Addison:  Go back to Addison's 2021 season at Pitt. With Kenny Pickett, he caught 100 passes for 1,593 yards and 17 touchdowns! More receiver help for Jared Goff.) (4-9-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/202-nfl-mock-draft-five-qbs-in-round-1-as-saints-nab-hendon-hooker-raiders-trade-up-for-anthony-richardson/

Draft Network McKessey (6. DT Jalen Carter:  A whirlwind top five picks give the Lions some pause as they consider if they, too, want to take a quarterback for the future (*cough Hendon Hooker cough*). Ultimately, they take a swing at another one of the best athletes in the draft class and one that fills a position of need. After locking down the edges of their defensive line in last year’s draft, Detroit adds Jalen Carter to the interior—a supremely talented defensive weapon that can bring it with his raw power and athleticism.  18. RB Bijan Robinson:  Surprise! The Lions, who are suddenly serious playoff and NFC North contenders, use their second of two first-round picks to grab another one of the best athletes in the class after taking Carter with the sixth overall pick. Even after the Lions signed running back David Montgomery in free agency to pair with D’Andre Swift, the opportunity to take their run game to the next level with Bijan Robinson was too good to pass up. Detroit’s offense, which already boasts receiving weapons Jameson Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Marvin Jones Jr., will have just added a freak athlete to run the ball out of the backfield behind a talented offensive line to complement their passing attack.) (4-9-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-titans-cardinals-pick-trade/

CBS Wilson (6. DE Lukas Van Ness:  The Lions had a need at cornerback ... and promptly addressed it to start free agency, adding Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley. And while there is depth at defensive end, Romeo Okwara and Charles Harris are entering the final year of their deals and the opportunity to pair Lukas Van Ness with Aidan Hutchinson is too good to pass up.  18. DT Bryan Bresee:  While Bresee's tape was uneven in '22, he suffered a family tragedy and was sick for much of the season. And the year before, he suffered an ACL injury. When he's healthy and locked in, Bresee is a special talent whose best football is ahead of him.) (4-9-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-titans-colts-trade-up-qbs-go-off-the-board-with-top-three-picks-will-levis-taken-late/

CFN (6. DT Jalen Carter:  A few weeks from now expect most of the problems surrounding Carter to calm down. He'll get in better shape, the legal issues should be a tad bit clearer, and the Lions will take a chance on greatness in the interior.  18. DE Lukas Van Ness:  This might be a wee bit too low for the high-rising Van Ness, but the Lions will happily grab him here - if he's available - to make an already improved D line a killer.  48. TE Tucker Kraft.  55. C Joe Tippman) (4-9-23):  https://collegefootballnews.com/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-two-round-mock-draft-free-agency-pro-days-edition

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 Calijah Kancey:  Pitt defensive tackle Calijah Kancey has plenty of measurables similar to Aaron Donald, the Pitt alum whose NFL Combine 40-yard dash record for defensive tackles that Kancey broke. Kancey isn't Donald, no one in the NFL today is, but his skill set could help take the Lions' pass rush to another level.) (4-8-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-texans-colts-find-franchise-qbs-titans-patriots-packers-take-wrs-early/

CBS Fornelli (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Witherspoon has been the top corner on a lot of boards this offseason, and after reportedly running in the 4.4 range at his pro day this week, he has likely solidified his stock. He displays excellent anticipation, technique, and ideal demeanor.  18. TE Michael Mayer:  18. DE Myles Murphy:  The Lions land a cornerback with their first pick and follow it up by pairing another edge rusher to line up across from Aidan Hutchinson. Murphy reminds me a bit of last year's No. 1 pick Travon Walker.) (4-8-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-seahawks-move-up-to-grab-eventual-geno-smith-replacement-three-big-mock-trades-in-top-10/

PFN Cummings (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  Tyree Wilson was incredibly productive over the past two seasons — amassing 14 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss. Yet, he still hasn’t come close to reaching his ceiling as a prospect. The flashes of quick, violent hand usage are very inspiring, but Wilson’s hyper-elite power profile is truly special. Across from Aidan Hutchinson, he’d be dangerous.  18. CB Deonte Banks:  The Lions no longer have an immediate need at CB after signing Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley to accompany Jeffrey Okudah. But soon enough, the position will be light again. It makes sense to get Deonte Banks in the room and start coaching up his technique. His elite athleticism and steely physicality could pay dividends down the line.  48. RB Jahmyr Gibbs:  The Lions have a new primary runner in David Montgomery, but soon, D’Andre Swift will be a free agent. It makes sense to add Jahmyr Gibbs as a versatile, dynamic offensive weapon if he falls to a certain point. His open-field burst is kryptonite for ill-fated safeties.  55. QB Hendon Hooker:  The Lions have kept tabs on Hendon Hooker through the draft process, and if he falls this far, they could pull the trigger. Jared Goff is still Detroit’s starter, but at the very least, Hooker can be a developmental backup, with the physical ability to grow into more.  81. TE Sam LaPorta: The Lions don’t need a world-beater at TE. They just need a steady presence, and that’s what Sam LaPorta can be with his mobility, route nuance, and natural catching instincts.  152. LB Owen Pappoe.  183. WR Justin Marshall.  194. DT Momar Fall) (4-8-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/7-round-nfl-mock-draft-4-2023/

NFL.com Reuter (6. DE Lukas Van Ness:  Van Ness' athleticism and versatility to play man-up or outside the tackles makes him a likely top-10 selection and a great fit with the Lions.  18.  DT Calijah Kancey:  Kancey's smaller frame (6-foot-1, 281 pounds) won't scare away the Lions, who lack healthy bodies in the middle of their defense.The Lions can't ignore Witherspoon’s value here even after making some upgrades in the secondary via free agency.  48. LB Noah Sewell.  55. TE Tucker Kraft.  81. QB Aidan O'Connell) (4-7-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/four-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-qbs-go-1-2-3-after-colts-trade-up

Athletic Baumgartner (3. (via ARI): Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama.  18. Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas.  55.  Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin.  81.  Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee) (4-7-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-trade-up-for-will-anderson-mock-draft

NBC Sports edge Dvorchak (6. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon:  The Lions made considerable moves to improve their cornerback room via free agency, but smart teams don't let middle-of-the-road veterans block them from drafting blue-chip players. Gonzalez has the stats and the tape of a shutdown corner at the NFL level.  18. DE Myles Murphy:  Having already addressed their cornerback room, the Lions are free at this spot to increase their ability to affect quarterbacks before the throw. Murphy is seemingly the end of this tier of EDGE players with Grinding the Mocks having the next player at his position coming off the board outside of the first round on average.) (4-7-23):  https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/mock-drafts/dvorchaks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-20

Draft Tek (6.  DT Jalen Carter:  The Detroit Lions' offseason keeps sailing along, with the usually downtrodden team listed among betting favorites for divisional and bigger titles, high-end free agents choosing to come to town on reasonable deals and former starters taking huge pay cuts to stay on as reserves. The team's cache of high draft picks has the hot stove boiling even higher, with much of the focus on the team's consideration of the gifted but concerning Georgia DT Jalen Carter.  A month out from the Draft, the Lions are engaged in an intense vetting of Carter before any selections are made. Coach Dan Campbell said the team had picked up "interesting" intel on Carter from a teammate, but Campbell did not elaborate on the nature of those learnings. Carter's NFL talent is obvious from his tape, but the Lions are searching for what GM Brad Campbell calls "football character -- your passion for the game, your mental toughness, leadership, accountability, work ethic, all that stuff. That always reigns Number 1."  --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon:  The Lions' secondary was as undertalented as they get last season, and their bottom-five pass defense statistics reflected it. While the team made three nice free-agent signings in the back of the defense, two are just one-year deals. So there is still plenty of room for quality depth and future succession.  Illinois DB Devon Witherspoon is a physical, scrappy corner who seems a great fit for DC Aaron Glenn and the Lions' tough-minded emerging vibe. Adding him on a five-year rookie deal could be another foundational get. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst.  48. S Jordan Battle: Alabama's Jordan Battle is an athletic safety who fits the Lions' ongoing search for locker room leaders with unrelenting competitiveness and work ethic. Four years as a leader in Nick Saban's defense have prepared him to play a variety of roles in an NFL-type scheme and environment. He also shows a knack for being in the right spot and jumping routes at key moments.  Battle is another fresh face in the recharge of the formerly woebegone Lions secondary and he offers insurance if Tracy Walker's achilles tear is slow to heal or C.J. Gardner goes elsewhere after his one-year deal in Detroit.  55. LB Noah Sewell:  While concerns over his pass coverage abilities have largely pushed him out of first-round talk, Oregon LB Noah Sewell still has plenty to offer to the right team and system.  The brother of Lions' budding superstar Penei Sewell, Noah is a heavy hitter with surprising athleticism for his size. He did not have a great Combine, putting up a 4.64 40 and a middling RAS score of 8.32. Some have talked of converting him to a full-time edge rusher, and he also figures to contribute on special teams. He looks like a guy who would start in Pittsburgh or Baltimore, making plays and leading the team, 40 times be damned.  81. LB Owen Pappoe:  The Lions left a few fans unhappy when they extended ILB Alex Anzalone this offseason. But even with their man in place in the middle, the team still needs a speedy coverage backer to play off the ball. Auburn's Owen Pappoe fits that bill after he turned heads with a sterling 4.39 40 at the Combine. Along with chasing plays sideline to sideline and filling space in a zone, Pappoe could help the Lions with one nagging weakness by spying against running QBs like the Bears' Justin Fields.  152. TE Davis Allen. 183. WR Dontay Demus Jr.  194. CB Christian Izien) (4-7-23):  https://www.drafttek.com/2023-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp

PFN Broback (6. DE Myles Murphy:  With Aidan Hutchinson already on the roster, one side of the Lions’ defensive line is set. Imagine how much better this defense would be if they had a terrifying duo on the edge. Detroit needs to get after the quarterback more in 2023, and what better way to do that than by adding Myles Murphy?  Murphy produced 31 tackles for loss and 18 sacks on a loaded Clemson defensive line and improved every year that he played. He’ll need to learn the nuances of the NFL, but the foundation is there to build upon and make him one of the better pass rushers in the league.  18. CB Joey Porter Jr:  Detroit’s defense wasn’t exactly elite last year, but this is a hungry group. They already added an elite pass rusher earlier in the first round of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, but they’re not done adding talent.  Joey Porter Jr. brings good length and physicality to the defense and creates an exciting duo with Jeff Okudah. Teams already have to worry about blocking the Lions on the edge, but now they must worry about where they throw the ball downfield.  48.  TE Luke Musgrave:  When the Lions traded T.J. Hockenson, tight end became a positional need. The offense needs a few more pass catchers to emerge, so Luke Musgrave is a great option here. His game still needs some work, but the raw tools he’s displayed make him a great prospect. If Detroit can expedite his development, this offense has incredible potential.  55. LB Jack Campbell:  Some believe that Jack Campbell is the best linebacker in the class, so Detroit’s getting a steal in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Campbell fits the stereotype of Iowa linebackers by being a natural playmaker with good instincts and play recognition. What he does better than those before him is play in space.  Campbell’s athleticism allows him to cover players downfield better than most, and that athleticism makes him an intriguing player in the first two rounds. Detroit’s defense boasts some players with great potential, and the draft should only add more weapons to that unit.  81. DT Karl Brooks:  Not many are talking about Karl Brooks, but they should be. Detroit’s making big changes to the defensive side of the ball in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and Brooks is the latest addition. He’s a smart player who can adapt on the fly, and his explosiveness makes him a potentially great player on a line that will feature Aidan Hutchinson and first-round pick Myles Murphy.) (4-6-23):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/brobacks-3-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-aidan-hutchinson-and-myles-murphy-unite-and-anthony-richardson-falls-out-of-top-15/

SN (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  The Lions took care of a lot of secondary needs in free agency and must think defensive front first should it pivot away from forcing QB with Jared Goff still playing well. With Carter off the board, Wilson makes a ton of sense as a big complementary sack producer for 2022 No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson.  18. RB Bijan Robinson:  The Lions have grown weary of D'Andre Swift's durability issues and that's why they got a more well-rounded back in David Montgomery to replace Jamaal Williams. That could be setting them up to also move on from Swift, with Montgomery settling into a pure backup role. Robinson is a terrific power back who has special three-down skills. His explosiveness behind their elite line to complement a downfield passing game would be game-changing for an already loaded offense.  48. DT Mazi Smith:  The Lions need to address defensive tackle early here to help their run-stuffing They can go back to the Wolverines up front to get Smith, who can blow up plenty in the backfield.  55. DE Zach Harrison:  The Lions also could use some more effective depth behind Hutchinson and based on this mock, Wilson. Harrison has promise because of his frame and athleticism and could benefit from time to develop in a rotation.  81. QB Hendon Hooker.  152. G Anthony Bradford.  183. LB Drake Thomas.  194. OT Braeden Daniels) (4-6-23):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-7-rounds/qg9ivyouzqqrtmlrp7fqtn3p

CBS Brinson (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Christian Gonzalez is probably the top-rated corner on most boards but MAN does Witherspoon fit a Dan Campbell defense. I still *probably* think they go hog molly with this pick but this is a culture/scheme/need fit.  18. RB Bijan Robinson:  SPICY FROM THE LIONS! Grabbing Bijan Robinson here feels a touch excessive but D'Andre Swift is in the final year of his rookie contract and David Montgomery's got a two- or even possibly one-year contract. Robinson behind this offensive line could cook. At some point you ignore positional value and take an elite running back at a discount. When people zig sometimes you gotta zag.) (4-5-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-texans-shake-things-up-at-no-2-titans-make-bold-move-colts-pass-on-qb/

Fox sports writers (6. DT Jalen Carter:  If he falls this far, the Lions aren’t going to be able to resist. From the coaches I’ve talked to, Carter is the real deal and perhaps worth some of the off-the-field concerns. He’s big and strong enough to run you over but has all the finesse of an outside pass-rusher with the way he uses his hands, his leverage and his ability to flip his hips. That’s not a combination you see very often, if ever, and Detroit’s defensive front is all of a sudden one of the scariest in the NFL. – Carmen Vitali.  18. CB Brian Branch:  The minute the Lions started getting creative with their secondary, their pass defense improved dramatically down the stretch last season. Getting a Swiss-Army knife player such as Branch would help round out that entire unit so Detroit can hit the ground running in 2023. – Carmen Vitali) (4-5-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-football-writers-make-all-31-first-round-picks

NFL.com Zierlein (6.  CB Devon Witherspoon:  The Lions have added cornerbacks via free agency to help bolster their ailing unit, but they still need a top dog. Witherspoon's ballhawking could make him a coveted selection here.  18. TE Michael Mayer:  After grabbing the top ballhawk in the draft sixth overall, the Lions switch to the other side of the ball for this pick, adding a solid "Y" tight end with the ability to make tough catches and bolster the running game.) (4-4-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2023-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-ravens-select-c-j-stroud-after-trade-patr

PFN Miller (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  Dan Campbell did his best to throw folks off the Carter trail with his most recent comments. “We talked to a teammate of his the other day, and, man, he told us some things we didn’t know,” Campbell told reporters. “That nobody probably would’ve known. It was like, ‘Oh, that’s interesting.'”  Sounds like a man trying to plant a seed of doubt in Seattle and Arizona. Hindsight is a real charlatan sometimes. Getting to pick No. 18 and seeing the players remaining on the board at cornerback caused an audible sigh. However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that Christian Gonzalez is an outstanding fit in Aaron Glenn’s defense.  18. TE Darnell Washington:  The transition from college to pro football for tight ends is among the most difficult of any position. To be an expert at something, one must dedicate an excruciating amount of time to it. Receivers spend their lives running routes and catching passes. Offensive tackles spend theirs working on footwork and striking. Tight ends are asked to do both. It’s practically an impossible task.  When we’ve seen tight ends be productive early recently, they haven’t been first-round players. But they all have one thing in common: Each is an elite athlete in one way or another. Darnell Washington is a freak among freaks. While blocking will be far more difficult at the next level, Washington was outstanding in that respect at Georgia.  48. LB Trenton Simpson:  Trenton Simpson is what teams look for in a modern linebacker. He’s an incredible athlete who blitzes well and thrives in man coverage. He still has a lot to learn, but his athleticism is a great starting point.  55. DT Keeanu Benton:  The Lions need some complementary pieces alongside the defensive front. Keeanu Benton might not have the upside of a Pro Bowler, but he should be able to contribute as a run defender early on while he improves his pass-rush plan and hand usage.  81. OT Blake Freeland:  Detroit takes a stab at a really impressive athlete for the position in BYU tackle Blake Freeland. It likely won’t bear fruit immediately, but the potential is there. Detroit doesn’t need a starter there but could use some depth at the position.) (4-4-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/millers-2023-3-round-nfl-mock-draft-hendon-hooker-goes-early-nolan-smith-stock-soars-and-wide-receivers-slip/

CBS Prisco (6. DT Jalen Carter:  They need to get some help at the position, even though they have some younger players they like. This is a pass-catcher they can't pass up. The Lions could also consider adding defensive help or a receiver here as well.  18. TE Dalton Kincaid:  They need to get some help at the position, even though they have some younger players they like. This is a pass-catcher they can't pass up. The Lions could also consider adding defensive help or a receiver here as well.) (4-4-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/pete-prisco-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-colts-dont-take-any-chances-and-trade-up-a-spot-for-qb-4-go-in-top-10/

ESPN McShay (6. DE Tyree Wilson.  18. RB Bijan Robinson.  48. LB Jack Campbell.  55. Sam LaPorta) (4-4-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/4/4/23669515/2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-rounds-todd-mcshay-detroit-lions-bijan-robinson-tyree-wilson

Touchdown wire Farrar (6. DT Jalen Carter:  At some point in the top 10, some team is going to weigh the risks with Carter and decide that the tape which made him the best overall prospect in the 2023 draft is just too good to pass up. The Lions would seem to have an ideal environment for Carter — head coach Dan Campbell commands respect, Campbell has former NFL players all over his coaching staff, and there are enough veterans on the defensive side of the ball to give Carter the necessary boosts he needs to realize his awesome potential. 18. RB Bijan Robinson:  Were this draft held in the former millennium, Robinson might be the first overall player taken. It’s his misfortune to make his way to the NFL in an era where running backs have been devalued, but he’s done everything possible to put himself above the fray. Last season for the Longhorns, Robinson gained 1,575 yards and scored 18 rushing touchdowns on 257 carries, forcing an astonishing 104 missed tackles along the way. In an offense where current quarterback Jared Goff needs a quality run game and play action-based offense, and operating behind one of the NFL’s best offensive lines, Robinson could swing his way to Offensive Rookie of the Year status.  48. TE Luke Musgrave.  55. DT Mazi Smith.  81.  S JL Skinner) (4-4-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-lamar-jackson-aaron-rodgers-bryce-young-c-j-stroud/

PFF Renner (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  Wilson truly looks like the missing piece for the Lions' defensive line — a versatile defender who can play any role imaginable and still make an impact against the run. Detroit may have more pressing pure needs, but the team won’t find anything like Wilson later in the draft.  18. WR Quentin Johnston:  This ain’t no Matt Millen run of first-round wide receivers. This is the Lions investing in an offense that would look as talented a supporting cast for a quarterback as any in the NFL with Johnston in the fold.  48. OG Steve Avila:  As far as available starting spots go for Detroit at this point, it’s either right guard or linebacker. Avila can plug the one area that’s keeping the Lions' offense line from being a dominant unit.  55. LB Jack Campbell:  After addressing the interior line with their second-round pick, the Lions go with a linebacker here. Campbell is a steady, high-floor player with few holes to his game.  81. QB Tanner Mckee) (4-4-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-three-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-colts-anthony-richardson-jets-calijah-kancey

O'Hara (6. DE Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech. 18. DT Calijah Kancey) (4-3-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-mock-draft-3-0-combine-pro-days-trades-free-agency-shake-up-selections

Draft wire Popejoy (6. DT Jalen Carter.  18. G O’Cyrus Torrence.  48. DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah.  55. TE Luke Musgrave.  81. CB Tyrique Stevenson) (4-3-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/04/03/nfl-mock-draft-2023-will-levis-quarterback-falls-first-round/11591463002/

USA Today Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz (6.  DE Tyree Wilson:  A 6-6, 271-pound edge rusher who blows up plays in the backfield and has a wingspan just short of NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo sounds like the kind of player that Dan Campbell could only dream of. Wilson will be an imposing matchup for any opponent, but his refinement as a pass rusher will determine whether he can become an accomplished sack artist or merely someone who pushes the pocket.  18. DT Calijah Kancey:  Being selected by Brad Holmes, the Lions GM and former ace Rams personnel man, would only amplify the comparisons of Kancey to Aaron Donald, another undersized Pitt product and menace in the middle. No team should expect a similar trajectory to that of the three-time Defensive Player of the Year, but Kancey's ample explosiveness is something that Dan Campbell would surely covet for his burgeoning defensive front.) (4-3-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/03/11/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-trade-bears-pick-quarterback/11449987002/

Draft Network Parson (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  Tyree Wilson may have the highest ceiling of all the edge defenders due to his physical build and athletic gifts. I love the idea of adding him to juice up the Lions’ run defense and pass rush. Facing Wilson aligned inside of Aidan Hutchinson should give offensive coordinators a lot to think about for the game week.  18. CB Deonte Banks:  Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn needs as much help as possible. The defensive secondary needs a boost and Deonte Banks is a great fit. Banks has the height, weight, and explosiveness to live on an island at the NFL level.) (4-2-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-april-parson/

PFN Valentine (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  With Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell emphatically stating, “Man, we got a quarterback” in Jared Goff, I have a hard time seeing them forcing this pick at the position. Instead, the Lions need secondary help, as their cornerback room has been inconsistent. The big riser this offseason has been Christian Gonzalez, who has everything needed to be a No. 1 coverage option.  18. LB Jack Campbell:  With a star cornerback already added, Jack Campbell makes sense for this Lions’ defense. He’s 6’5 “, 249 pounds, with 4.65 speed, elite burst numbers, and a 6.74 three-cone. And he was an elite producer in college with impeccable character. Campbell will adore him.  45. DT Mazi Smith:  We’re going back to the defensive side of the ball for the Lions, this time adding a strong man in the middle of a run-defending unit that has to improve. Mazi Smith is a great athlete and gap-eater.  55. S Sydney Brown:  Joining up with his college teammate in Kerby Joseph, Sydney Brown gives the Lions an uber-physical presence in the box who can tackle, take on blocks, and make plays on the ball. 81. TE Tucker Kraft:  The T.J. Hockenson trade opened the door for a new starter in Detroit. Tucker Kraft has everything you want for a stud producer at the position, including great acceleration for his size.) (4-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-3-round-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-falls-while-c-j-stroud-and-anthony-richardson-surge/

PFN Platte (3. Detroit Lions (From ARI): Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida (Compensation: Two first-round picks and two second-round picks.):  Trading into the top five is not cheap, and the Lions would likely be paying a fair premium to beat out the other teams attempting to move up. That said, two firsts and two seconds seems downright cheap, considering how well Brad Holmes has capitalized on his investments.  Anthony Richardson is the most athletic QB in NFL history, taking that crown from former MVP Cam Newton and former All-Pro Daunte Culpepper. Like Jared Goff’s two seasons in Detroit, Richardson started off with a rough stretch with turnovers but finished strong down the stretch. He finished the 2022 season with only two interceptions over six games, to 12 touchdowns through the air, with another four touchdowns on the ground.) (3-31-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-detroit-moves-up-to-grab-anthony-richardson/

NFL.com Freuland (6.  CB Devon Witherspoon:  6. DT Calijah Kancey:  Overall, Kancey is my 18th highest-rated prospect … and this is slot No. 6. … Are you picking up what I’m putting down, Detroit? Maybe see if you can add an extra pick or two in a later round and still get this guy, Motor City Kitties. Keen free agency moves at the corner position makes addressing the interior of the defensive line the value play here. Kancey had a ridiculous NFL Scouting Combine, and I was also able to watch his Pitt film with a few team execs to ask questions. Without being overly mathy, we looked at a few different ways of measuring his impact, and the one that stood out most to me was his lateral speed after traveling forward, which ranked in the top 5 percent of a 10-season sample. You know who might be great at understanding this value? GM Brad Holmes, who has experience with Aaron Donald from his Rams days. There are obvious connections there, but the main one is really valuing a prospect who is not a prototype.  18.  TE Dalton Kincaid:  The Lions have a strong O-line (forecasts to be in the top echelon) already, so Kincaid’s value is really about his pass-catching prowess. He was highly productive last year (70 catches for 890 yards), showcasing real ability after the catch.) (3-30-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/cynthia-frelund-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-packers-select-wr-jaxon-smith-njigba-fal

Foxsports McIntyre (6. Detroit Lions via L.A. Rams: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama:  6. QB Will Levis:  Detroit's defense ranked near the bottom in every metric in 2022, but adding a QB on the rookie deal enables them to move on from Jared Goff in 2024, spend money on free agents and make a title run.  18. Detroit Lions: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon:  18. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Boy, the Lions are sitting pretty with a ton of options thanks to extra draft picks. They picked up two CBs in free agency, and we'll see what happens with former top-five pick Jeff Okudah, who was benched last season.) (3-29-23):   https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-panthers-make-ultimate-upside-play-with-anthony-richardson

ESPN Reid (6.  DE Tyree Wilson.  18. CB Deonte Banks.  48. DT Keeanu Benton.  55.  QB Hendon Hooker.  81.  OT Braeden Daniels.  152. LB Dorian Williams.  183.  TE Davis Allen.  194.  WR Jadon Haselwood) (3-29-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/29/lions-mock-draft-espn-reid-7-round-picks-tyree-wilson-deonte-banks/

FTW D'Andrea (6. DE Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech (Team needs: S, LB, DT, QB):  The Lions might be tempted to add a cornerback here, but they’ve addressed that need mightily in free agency. Detroit signed Cameron Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley and CJ Gardner-Johnson this March, and while the team could still use a long-term building block in case Jeff Okudah fails to pan out it can always target one with the 18th pick.  A deep corner class instead leads the Lions to beef up their defensive front. Jalen Carter could be the play here, but his recent arraignment and frustrating pro day performance could instead lead Dan Campbell to add a beefy pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson.  Wilson is a beefy, edge collapsing presence with the explosion to get his 6-foot-6, 271-pound frame upfield in a hurry. He and Hutchinson can force opposing quarterbacks to step up in the pocket — and give Alim McNeill some easy clean-up sacks in the process.  18. DT Calijah Kancey, Pittsburgh (Team needs: S, LB, DT, QB):  Bresee’s selection opens up Detroit to continue its defensive overhaul and add another one of the pre-draft process’s biggest risers. Kancey ran the fastest 40 of any prospect over 280 pounds in recorded history, showcasing the explosion and strength that makes a comparison to fellow undersized Pitt tackle Aaron Donald entirely too easy.  A defensive front of Aidan Hutchinson, Tyree Wilson, Alim McNeill and Kancey is a fearsome combination of speed and size. That’s a unit that can rush the passer from anywhere and seal holes on running plays. The Lions have worked hard in free agency to overhaul their deficient secondary. At the draft, they can focus on the guys who’ll make life easier for all those new cornerbacks.) (3-28-23):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-anthony-richardson-cj-stroud-cowboys

NFL.com Brooks (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  The spectacular cover corner is a man-to-man coverage specialist with the skills to flourish in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn's system. 18. DT Calijah Kancey:  The Lions have assembled a collection of high-energy defenders on the frontline with non-stop motors and polished pass-rushing skills. Adding Kancey, a relentless interior rusher, to the mix would enable Aaron Glenn to overwhelm opponents with pressure.) (3-28-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-colts-pass-on-quarterback-will-levis-falls-

ESPN Tannebaum (6. DE Tyree Wilson:  The Lions allowed the second-most yards per pass (7.9) last season and ranked 20th in sacks per dropback (6.1%). They added Cam Sutton, C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Emmanuel Moseley through free agency, and I thought about another defensive back here. But Wilson had an outstanding career at Texas Tech after transferring from Texas A&M and logged 14 sacks over the past two seasons. He's long and plays with heavy hands. Wilson paired with Aidan Hutchinson provides Detroit an outstanding duo of pass-rushers for the next decade.  18. DT Jalen Carter:  Detroit performed poorly in a number of defensive categories last year, including bottom-three figures in passing yards against per attempt, rushing yards against per attempt and opponent third-down conversion rate. I got the Lions an edge rusher earlier, but I'm not done building up this defensive line. A team with multiple first-round picks can take a calculated risk. Carter is just that. He pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing after an arrest during combine week, and he appeared out of shape at his pro day in mid-March. But despite just six sacks over the past two seasons, his talent is on another level, and this could end up a great pick at No. 18.) (3-28-23):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2023/story/_/id/35931704/2023-nfl-mock-draft-mike-tannenbaum-gm-first-round-picks-five-quarterbacks

NFL.com Edholm (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  The Lions could continue adding at cornerback even after making moves to upgrade the secondary in free agency.  18.  CB Devon Witherspoon:  18. TE Michael Mayer:  The trade of T.J. Hockenson left a pretty big hole at the position. Head coach Dan Campbell should love the chance to draft a Jason Witten-style replacement in Mayer, and I think GM Brad Holmes will love the fact that Mayer is still only 21 years old.) (3-27-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/eric-edholm-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-cowboys-trade-up-for-texas-rb-bijan-robinson

PFF Spielberg (3. DETROIT LIONS (VIA ARI): QB ANTHONY RICHARDSON, FLORIDA (Trade: Detroit sends Nos. 6, 48, 81, 2024 1st, 2024 4th; Arizona sends No. 3):  The Lions had a strong free agency period that truly enabled them to have no “needs” entering the 2023 NFL Draft, though one could argue the interior of their defensive line still needs the most work — more on that later.  With this pick, Detroit shows they have no plans to draft this early again any time soon. They make a bold move up for the most athletically gifted quarterback we’ve seen in a long time. Jared Goff has two years and $52.95 million remaining on his contract with nothing guaranteed, and while he’s been solid in Detroit, the only way the Lions truly see their rebuild through to the finish line following the quarterback swap with Matthew Stafford is by using the extra draft capital acquired to land a potential difference-making quarterback. Goff does not elevate the talent around him, but Richardson certainly could. Richardson is also not a total project like he’s often made out to be, with his 9.2% pressure-to-sack rate in 2022 the 11th-lowest mark in the country. He can certainly stand to improve his accuracy and occasional poor decision-making, but the sky's the limit, and these are the lottery-ticket draft picks the NFL has begun to gravitate toward at quarterback.  18. DETROIT LIONS: DI CALIJAH KANCEY, PITTSBURGH:  We mentioned the Lions need to add more juice on the interior, and here they do just that. Kancey’s lack of size may cause him to fall even further down the board, but Lions general manager Brad Holmes was the Rams' director of college scouting in 2014 when they selected another undersized interior defender by the name of Aaron Donald out of Pittsburgh 13th overall.  Kancey’s 92.4 pass-rush grade and 18.1% pressure rate led all FBS interior defenders in 2022, with his 22.7% pass-rush win rate placing second. He was as productive an interior pass rusher as you can find, and even if he has a bit of a specialized role early in his career, it’s a very valuable specialty.) (3-27-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-mock-draft-three-qbs-first-three-picks-colts-christian-gonzalez

Draft Network Sanchez (6. DT Jalen Carter:  Jalen Carter’s off-the-field situations are starting to make people wonder if he will slide in the draft but I don’t believe so—Carter’s talent is just too good to pass up. I also believe an organization with a strong-willed head coach like Dan Campbell will be a good environment for Carter to develop as a pro and address the things that need to be addressed.  18. TE Michael Mayer:  The Lions’ offense played well with Jared Goff at QB last year but they need to continue to add weapons. Last year, they traded away tight end T.J. Hockenson, so they can take TE Michael Mayer to fill a void. Mayer is a well-rounded TE that can offer production in the passing game but also productivity in the run game.) (3-26-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-stroud-young-levis-richardson/

PFN Fragoza (6. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia:  The Jalen Carter slide ends here. But in reality, we could see Carter fall even further in the 2023 NFL Draft. Off-the-field troubles and a poor showing at Georgia’s Pro Day make Carter’s landing spot a real question mark.  His legal situation stemming from an early-March arrest warrant became clearer when Carter pled no contest to two misdemeanor traffic violations — specifically reckless driving and racing — but it’s impossible to know how individual teams are placing him on their boards at this point.  Yet, it’s important to remember Carter isn’t just a prospect for teams to select — he’s a person that’s mental health should not be overlooked.  18.  CB Brian Branch:  Brian Branch and C.J. Gardner-Johnson on the same defense is too enticing to pass up. Both can rotate between safety and slot, but Branch is best deployed near the line of scrimmage. He’s not a high-end athlete, but with his mental processing and instincts (both film-based and natural), he doesn’t need to be.  Add in his exceptional tackling and willingness to crash in run support, and you have a prototypical Dan Campbell defensive back.) (3-26-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-lamar-jackson-derrick-henry-and-others-traded-vikings-nab-new-qb1/

Fox sports Aumen (11. Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois:  Detroit needed to aggressively upgrade its defense, and adding corner Cam Sutton and safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson are big steps toward that. But Witherspoon would allow the Lions to move on from Jeff Okudah. Had the Lions stayed put at No. 6, you could have seen them take a pass-rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, but this is good value with an extra top-50 pick for another starter.  18. Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia:  Head coach Dan Campbell was a tight end, the Lions lost T.J. Hockenson and, most importantly, Washington is a beast. At 6-foot-7 and 264 pounds, he still ran a 4.64-second 40. He was Georgia's second-best tight end, only because Brock Bowers will be a high draft pick in 2024. In theory, Detroit could trade down a few spots and still get Washington or Utah's Dalton Kincaid, who's smaller but was more productive in college.) (3-24-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-c-j-stroud-still-no-1-shakeup-among-top-10

Yahoo Charles McDonald (6. QB Anthony Richardson.  18. CB Deonte Banks.) (3-24-23):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-60-qbs-go-in-4-of-top-6-picks-with-some-serious-steals-in-late-first-round-181203486.html

PFF McGuiness (6. DT Jalen Carter.  18. CB Joey Porter Jr.  48.  DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah.  55. CB Tyrique Stevenson.  81. WR Michael Wilson) (3-24-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-three-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-nfc-north-bears-vikings-packers-lions

USA Today Nate Davis (6.  DT Jalen Carter, Georgia:  It's shaping up as one of the most fascinating pivot points of the first round, the Lions apparently completely comfortable with QB Jared Goff and probably unlikely to take his long-term successor. A trade could also be a viable option here for GM Brad Holmes, who doesn't need to reach for a linebacker or tight end this early. Of course, he could easily settle on the best player – clearly Carter. However it's been a rough couple weeks for the former Bulldogs star. He recently received one year of probation, community service and a $1,000 fine after being charged with racing and reckless driving in conjunction with the January 15 accident that resulted in the deaths of Georgia teammate Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy, who were in a separate vehicle. Add in a disastrous pro day, when Carter appeared overweight and didn't finish all of the drills, and a slip from potential No. 1 overall pick to outside the top five seems viable.  18. TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame:  He catches (138 receptions for 1,649 yards over past two seasons), he blocks, he scores (16 TDs over past two seasons), and the 2022 All-American is huge (6-5, 249 pounds). He'd certainly garner appreciation from a former tight end like Campbell and for a team that needs to replace T.J. Hockenson, who was traded last season.) (3-22-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/nate-davis/2023/03/22/nfl-mock-draft-free-agency-bijan-robinson-quarterbacks-panthers/11492436002/

NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (6. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Witherspoon doesn’t have ideal size (5-foot-11 1/2, 181 pounds), but his game is very similar to that of Denzel Ward, who, like Witherspoon, played his college football in the Big Ten. Detroit has some difference-makers on the defensive front and has made some nice additions to the secondary this offseason, but Witherspoon’s instincts and ball skills would fit beautifully in the back end.  18. DT Calijah Kancey:  Lions GM Brad Holmes spent a lot of time around Aaron Donald during his previous stop as the Rams’ director of college scouting. Kancey isn’t on Donald’s level (nobody is) but his explosive quickness would beautifully complement Detroit’s young edge rushers to give the Lions a fearsome pass rush group.) (3-21-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2023-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-bucs-colts-panthers-texans-vikings-pick-

SI NFL Draft Bible (6. CB Devon Witherspoon, Illinois:  The class of cornerbacks got interesting after seeing them in All-Star games and at the Scouting Combine. Witherspoon has separated himself as the best at his position, leaving the Lions with an easy option to strengthen their secondary.  18. Bryan Bresee, Clemson:  All the moves the Lions are making in the offseason are putting them in a spot to compete for a Super Bowl run. Yes, you heard that right. Putting Bresee next to Aidan Hutchinson and adding Gonzalez to the secondary can make this defense a young nucleus of superstars.) (3-20-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-march-madness-in-the-nfl-offseason

Draft wire Risdon (6. DE Will Anderson:  Not the Lions’ biggest need, but the concept of pairing Anderson with last year’s rookie EDGE haul of Aidan Hutchinson, James Houston and Josh Paschal would give Detroit a diverse, destructive stable of young pass rushers.  18. CB Devon Witherspoon:  Witherspoon is slightly built and hasn’t worked out due to a hamstring injury but offers the exact style of in-your-face man coverage that suits the Lions’ young defense.  48. QB Hendon Hooker.  55. DE Adetomiba Adebawore.  81. S Jammie Robinson) (3-20-23):    https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-mock-draft-3-rounds-post-free-agency-updated-projections/

PFF Monsoon and Palazzolo (6. DT Jalen Carter:  Carter is as good a DT prospect as we've seen since we started grading college in 2014. A complete prospect.  18. CB Deonte Banks:  Banks has all the physical traits of an All-Pro cornerback. He just needs to be more consistent with his technique.) (3-20-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-mock-draft-sam-monson-and-steve-palazzolo-mock-the-first-round-sending-bryce-young-to-the-carolina-panthers-at-no-1-overall

Draft Network Weissman (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  Christian Gonzalez is one of the cleanest players in this class and profiles as a lockdown corner. His game is reminiscent of Patrick Surtain II and I expect an early impact when he steps on the field. He would give Detroit a legit coverman to match up against the Justin Jeffersons and D.J. Moores of the world.  18. QB Will Levis:  Will Levis slides a bit here in this NFL mock draft and I wouldn’t count out a trade-up for him by a QB-needy team, but Detroit stops the slide. I love Jared Goff, but why not add a cheap, young QB who has a ton of talent to develop?) (3-19-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-after-free-agency/

SI Draft Bible Marchionte (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  It might be a stretch, but Jeff Okudah is not the answer, and it leaves the cupboard bare in the secondary for Detroit. Gonzalez, in my estimation, put himself atop all defensive backs with his NFL Combine performance. The tape is the reason he was invited to Indianapolis and his 4.3 forty confirmed his athleticism. The Lions are going to be tempted to add pieces up front with so much talent on the draft board in terms of edge rushers, but not having anyone to cover down covers both ends.  18. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba:  The Lions had no issues scoring points last season and that was without coveted rookie Jameson Williams playing in only six games while recovering from his leg injury. Smith-Njigba, Williams, and Amon-Ra St. Brown create a mighty offensive unit. Sprinkle in their open space juggernaut D’Andre Swift and newly signed former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery and the Lions are going to be downright scary.) (3-18-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-bo-marchionte-nfl-mock-draft-1-0

PFN Hodgkinson (6. CB Christian Gonzalez:  If I’m the Detroit Lions — which I am for the purposes of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft — I wouldn’t let the free agency additions of Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley deter me from pulling the trigger on one of the most exciting defensive players in the 2023 NFL Draft.  Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez likely cemented his CB1 candidacy with his outstanding performance at the NFL Combine. The impressive testing numbers quantified what was already apparent on tape. The former Colorado cornerback boasts the speed, fluidity, explosion out of breaks, and ball skills to be a lockdown cornerback in the NFL.  18. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba:  With their second pick of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Lions add another weapon to their receiving group. Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s absence from the majority of the 2022 college football season had appeared to raise enough question marks to tank his stock.  However, his Combine performance answered some athleticism questions, and there’s no doubting the Ohio State WR’s impressive route-running ability. With the football intelligence to find soft spots in zone coverage and his ability to convert at the catch point, Smith-Njigba should become the latest Brian Hartline protégé to find success in the NFL.) (3-16-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-carolina-panthers-get-their-guy-in-ohio-state-qb-c-j-stroud/

PFF Sikkema (6. CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon:  After a stellar showing at the scouting combine, Gonzalez is poised to be the top cornerback taken in this draft. Even after signing a few free-agent defensive backs, Detroit could still look to target cornerback at No. 6. 18. DE Nolan Smith:  Dan Campbell is going to love Nolan Smith. I know edge rusher isn’t their biggest area of need, but if Smith makes it this far in the order, I have a hard time believing he wouldn’t be a Lion. Smith is passionate about football, has elite athletic traits and will defend the run until his last breath.  48.  DT Bryan Bresee.  55. QB Hendon Hooker.  81. DE Zach Harrison) (3-16-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-three-round-mock-draft-carolina-panthers-qb-cj-stroud-indianapolis-colts-anthony-richardson

Draft Network Fowler (6. DT Jalen Carter:  There are concerns for teams behind the scenes, but Carter remains one of the most talented prospects in the class who would be allowed to wreak havoc from day one along a front four already touting Aidan Hutchinson. If there’s a head coach in football I’d want coaching up Carter, it’s Dan Campbell.  18.  CB Julius Brents:  The biggest riser in the class, Julius Brents is CB1 on three teams’ boards I’ve spoken to. His 34-inch arms draw attention, but his willingness in the run game, aggressiveness in the air, and fluidity in man showcase an athlete worthy of a day-one pick.  49.  TE Sam LaPorta:  Sam LaPorta met formally with Detroit at the combine, and with TJ Hockenson now in Minnesota, his addition would provide another athletic flex weapon that once called Iowa home.  55. S Antonio Johnson:  Antonio Johnson is a three-level defender that isn’t afraid to knock your helmet off in the run game or flip his hips and carry a TE down the seam. He’ll fit nicely within Aaron Glenn’s defense.) (3-14-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-panthers-bears-trade/

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

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

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

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/

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/

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

Round 1 Pick 1 (27 CB, 22 DT, 22 DE, 6 QB, 2 RB):

21 DT Jalen Carter

15 CB Devon Witherspoon

14 DE Tyree Wilson 

10 CB Christian Gonzalez

5 QB Anthony Richardson  

4 DE Will Anderson

2 RB Bijan Robinson 

2 DE Myles Murphy

2 DE Lukas Van Ness  

1 DT Calijah Kancey 

1 QB Will Levis 

1 CB Joey Porter 

1 CB Joey Porter  

Round 1 Pick 2 (21 CB, 15 DT, 12 TE, 9 DE, 8 RB, 6 WR, 4 LB, 2 QB, 1 OG):

9 DT Calijah Kancey

8 RB Bijan Robinson

7 CB Deonte Banks

6 DE Lukas Van Ness 

5 TE Michael Mayer  

5 TE Dalton Kincaid  

5 DT Bryan Bresee  

4 CB Devon Witherspoon  

4 CB Joey Porter 

4 WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba 

3 CB Brian Branch

3 CB Christian Gonzalez 

2 LB Trenton Simpson 

2 DE Myles Murphy 

2 LB Jack Campbell  

2 TE Darnell Washington

1 WR Quentin Johnston

1 WR Jordan Addison 

1 OG O'Cyrus Torrence 

1 CB Julius Brents   

1 QB Will Levis 

1 QB Hendon Hooker

1 DT Jalen Carter

1 DE Nolan Smith 

Round 2 Pick 1 (7 TE, 6 LB, 4 DT, 3 DE, 2 QB, 2 OG, 1 CB, 1 RB, 1 S):

3 TE Sam LaPorta  

2 LB Jack Campbell 

2 LB Trenton Simpson 

2 DT Keeanu Benton 

2 DT Mazi Smith 

2 DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah 

2 TE Luke Musgrave

2 QB Hendon Hooker

1 RB Jahmyr Gibbs 

1 LB Daiyan Henley 

1 DE Tuli Tuipulotu

1 LB Noah Sewell 

1 TE Michael Mayer 

1 TE Tucker Kraft 

1 DT Bryan Bresee

1 CB Emmanuel Forbes 

1 OG Steve Avila 

1 OG Cody Mauch 

1 S Jordan Battle 

Round 2 Pick 2 (6 TE, 5 LB, 5 DT, 3 S, 3 QB, 2 CB, 2 DE, 1 RB, 1 C):

3 QB Hendon Hooker

3 DT Keeanu Benton 

3 LB Jack Campbell

2 TE Luke Musgrave 

2 TE Sam LaPorta 

2 LB Noah Sewell 

2 TE Tucker Kraft  

1 S Antonio Johnson 

1 CB Tyrique Stevenson

1 CB Garrett Williams  

1 S JL Skinner  

1 S Sydney Brown 

1 RB Roschon Johnson 

1 DE Adetomiba Adebawore

1 DE Zach Harrison 

1 C Joe Tippman

1 DT Calijah Kancey 

1 DT Mazi Smith  

Round 3 (5 QB, 3 S, 3 TE, 2 WR, 2 OT, 2 CB, 1 LB, 1 DT, 1 DE, 1 RB):

2 QB Hendon Hooker

2 TE Tucker Kraft

1 RB Zach Charbonnet 

1 S Jammie Robinson

1 S JL Skinner  

1 S Sydney Brown

1 WR Michael Wilson  

1 WR Nathaniel Dell 

1 LB Owen Pappoe 

1 QB Stetson Bennett  

1 QB Aidan O'Connell 

1 QB Tanner Mckee 

1 CB Tyrique Stevenson 

1 CB Cam Mitchell 

1 DE Zach Harrison 

1 OT Braeden Daniels

1 OT Blake Freeland  

1 DT Karl Brooks 

1 TE Sam LaPorta 

 

Round 5 (2 LB, 2 WR, 1 TE, 1 CB):

1 TE Davis Allen 

1 WR Elijah Higgins

1 WR Charles Jones 

1 LB Dorian Williams 

1 LB Owen Pappoe

1 G Anthony Bradford

1 CB Riley Moss

Round 5 (Trade) (1 WR):  

 1 WR Michael Wilson 

Round 6 Pick 1 (3 WR, 1 TE, 1 LB):

1 TE Davis Allen 

1 LB Drake Thomas

1 WR Justin Marshall

1 WR Dontay Demus Jr.

1 WR Ronnie Bell 

Round 6 Pick 2 (1 WR, 1 CB, 1 OT, 1 DT, 1 QB):

1 CB Christian Izien

1 WR Jadon Haselwood

1 OT Braeden Daniels

1 DT Momar Fall

1 QB Clayton Tune