Friday, February 23, 2024

2024 Mock Draft Round Up #15

Tankathon (29.  DE Chop Robinson.  61.  CB Kris Abrams-Draine. 73.  DT Leonard Taylor III.  92.  WR Tez Walker) (2-24-24):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft


PFN Schulte (29. Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri:  The Detroit Lions have loved to bet on traits in the NFL Draft, and Darius Robinson screams traits. His power, length, and explosiveness saw him dominate the SEC and at the Senior Bowl.  The Missouri prospect also likely tests out of the gym at the NFL Combine. Detroit needs another three-down edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, and Robinson fits their mold of prospects perfectly.  61. Caelen Carson, CB, Wake Forest:  Detroit boosted their pass rush in the first round and turn to their secondary in the second round of this 2024 NFL Mock Draft as they continue to revamp their defense.  Caelen Carson is a competitive and physical outside corner prospect who fits the mold of a press-man corner. Carson’s ball skills need work, but his physicality and competitiveness stand out on film and resemble the kind of players the Lions have sought recently.  73. Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida:  After devoting their early picks of this 2024 NFL Mock Draft to defense, Detroit turns to finding talent for their wide receiver room. The Lions need another outside threat at wide receiver with Josh Reynolds departing in free agency.  Ricky Pearsall‘s route-running and hands are among the best in this class, and he has a tremendously physical mentality in his playstyle. He would be a great complement to Amon-Ra St. Brown in the slot and Jameson Williams’s deep speed.  92.  DeWayne Carter, DT, Duke:  Part of Detroit’s defensive woes were due to them missing another difference-maker on the defensive line next to Alim McNeill. John Cominsky and Benito Jones filled in but are role players, and Levi Onwuzurike has struggled with multiple injuries, leaving a gap in their defensive line.  DeWayne Carter is an underrated interior pass rusher, boasting tremendous quickness and speed-to-power ability to collapse the pocket. The Duke prospect also has the play strength to hold up in the run game, giving him a three-down skill set.  156. OT Gottlieb Ayedze.  188. TE AJ Barner.  220.  CB Isaiah Johnson) (2-24-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/aj-schultes-7-round-2024-nfl-mock-draft-4-qbs-in-top-6-malik-nabers-falls-to-the-falcons/

CBS Fornelli (29. CB Mike Sainristil:  Watch Sainristil's tape and tell me he isn't the kind of player Dan Campbell and the Lions front office will love. The Lions need to add more talent to their secondary, and Sainristil showcases great ball skills and route recognition. He's also going 110% all the time and has a fiery, competitive demeanor.) (2-23-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-3-teams-trade-up-to-take-qbs-within-top-10-including-steelers-replacing-kenny-pickett/

MLive Raven (29. OT Troy Fautanu:  Troy Fautanu can play anywhere on the offensive line out of the gates. And that’s why he’s my first mock pick for the Lions despite the glaring needs at cornerback and for another edge rusher. Not only that, but Fautanu has become one of my favorite Day 1 options for the Lions since diving deeper into draft coverage.  And while about every draft analyst on the books believes that Fautanu could be a tackle out of the gates on Day 1, the consensus is that he’s better fitted with his style for the interior. ESPN’s Mel Kiper even said, “he’s going to be a Pro Bowl guard.” And The Athletic’s Dane Brugler added that “his fit inside at guard might be even better, though.”  T.J. Tampa and Kamari Lassiter are the top corners, and Chris Braswell is the top edge rusher left on the board. There is better value at those positions later in the draft. And with two starting guards without contracts, not to mention a starting left tackle entering a contract year, Fautanu fills more than one need in Detroit. He’s a starting-level talent for one of the guard positions. And he could be a potential starting tackle with Taylor Decker’s contract running up and Penei Sewell being able to play at an elite level from either the right or left tackle spot.  Fautanu looks built to play on Detroit’s offensive line as an aggressive mauler in the trenches. He has starting experience on the inside and outside. His technique needs refinement, no doubt. But he’s an athletic powerhouse and a fast-rising talent in the trenches. And who better than Lions offensive line coach Hank Fraley and Co. to help Fautanu hit his ceiling as a foundational piece? Fraley has proven to be an elite coach for developing and getting the most out of the trenches, no matter the configuration or injury challenges. And Fautanu and his 6-foot-4, 317-pound frame give him another versatile powerhouse to mold.  Pro Football Focus had Fautanu allowing only three sacks across three seasons at left tackle in Washington’s pass-heavy attack. He has the size, frame and style to hit the ground running as a road-grading guard, with proven chops in pass protection across multiple systems. Fautanu would bring a youthful level of violence to the team’s loaded offensive line, putting them in a better position to make the tough choice of letting Jonah Jackson walk. Fautanu pairs well with Graham Glasgow. And about 2025? The 23-year-old looks like a potential long-term option at right tackle, with Sewell able to move left whenever needed, adding to his long-term value while filling an immediate need for a team looking to keep their offensive line fully stocked.) (2-23-24):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/ben-ravens-2024-nfl-mock-draft-10-lions-bolster-stout-ol-with-mean-mauler.html

MLive Meinke (29.  CB Kool-Aid McKinstry:  Brad Holmes is a big believer in collecting the best football players possible, regardless of immediate need. In this projection, the best player available lines up with Detroit’s most immediate need. The Lions ranked 27th defending the pass last year, then averaged 311 passing yards allowed in their three playoff games. Cam Sutton struggled as CB1, allowing the second-worst passer rating among all cornerbacks who played at least half their team’s defensive snaps. Emmanuel Moseley was signed to be CB2, but played just two snaps after tearing another ACL. Jerry Jacobs initially replaced Moseley in the lineup, then was benched in favor of Kindle Vildor, who was on the wrong end of two of the most infamous plays of last season, falling down on the 92-yard TD pass to CeeDee Lamb in Dallas, then having the ball bounce off his face and into the hands of Brandon Aiyuk for a 51-yard catch in the NFC championship game.  The Lions have nearly everyone back for another run at the Super Bowl next season, but must -- must -- find personnel upgrades for the perimeter of their defense. Maybe that happens in free agency. More likely, they find a long-term solution in the draft. There are plenty of good cornerbacks who should be available late in the first round. In this projection, McKinstry, Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw and Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter are the best corners left at 29. Among that group, I like McKinstry the most. There are questions about his speed, so the combine will be a big week for him. But at 6-foot-1 and 195 pounds, McKinstry is a big, long corner with outstanding coverage skills. He was targeted just 39 times all last season, and allowed only one touchdown. He was one of the best defensive players in the nation’s best conference, and that likely will mean something to Brad Holmes, who has taken former Alabama stars like Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs and Brian Branch in his first three drafts in Detroit. Now Gibbs and Branch are headlining the young core in Detroit, while Williams is finding his way too. In McKinstry, Detroit would land the help it so badly needs to finally stop the carnage in the passing game.) (2-22-24):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/kyle-meinkes-2024-nfl-mock-draft-10-lions-land-another-elite-db-from-alabama.html

CBS Edwards (29. OT Jordan Morgan:  ticking with the theme, Jordan Morgan has played left tackle for Arizona but some may project him inside. Detroit has a few interior blockers scheduled to hit free agency so Morgan steps into a starting role on a team fighting to take that next step toward Super Bowl contention.) (2-22-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-bears-make-deal-with-qb-needy-team-four-signal-callers-taken-in-top-10/

PFN Broback (29. Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas:  Detroit seemed destined to have success in 2023, but a disappointing end to the Lions’ season left them wanting more. The offense has exciting talents like running back Jahmyr Gibbs and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, but they still need more.) (2-22-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/joe-broback-2024-nfl-mock-draft-caleb-williams-xavier-worthy/

NFL.com Filice (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr.:  Rakestraw is a physical, competitive corner who plays with the kind of edge Dan Campbell adores while excelling in the press-man coverage Aaron Glenn typically prefers. Next week's Indy expedition looms LARGE for this combine participant, both on the field (SEE: 40-yard dash, with questions about his long speed) and off (medicals, with concerns about his injury history).) (2-22-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/gennaro-filice-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0

NBC Sports Froton (29. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri:  A former non-descript three-star recruit, Rakestraw Jr. is a smooth operator with reflexive hips who is usually in-phase with his coverage assignment. He was a little banged up this year, which limited him to nine games, but it should be noted that Rakestraw Jr. allowed a 64.3% completion rate for 197 yards in that time frame. Detroit continues to build up its team to contend, and Rakestraw Jr. gives the Lions another talented defensive player to build up their contending roster with.) (2-22-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-marvin-harrison-jr-headlines-three-wrs-in-top-10-for-eric-froton

CBS Trapasso (29. CB Cooper DeJean:  How fun would Brian Branch and DeJean be in the Lions secondary?  61. DE Jonah Elliss) (2-21-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-two-round-mock-draft-vikings-replace-kirk-cousins-with-j-j-mccarthy-in-round-1/

Freep Birkett (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw - Birkett wrote: "Cornerback is a huge position of need for the Lions, and while they’ll address it on some level in free agency, they need a long-term solution on the outside. Rakestraw doesn’t have huge ball production with one interception in four years, but he’s the type of feisty, physical corner the Lions want on defense.") (2-21-24):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/02/21/detroit-lions-2024-mock-draft-predict-defense-first-round/72670607007/

SI Easterling (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr.:   The Lions have one of the more complete rosters in the league heading into next season, but injuries and inconsistency have been an issue for the secondary, particularly at corner. That's where Detroit should look to use this pick, and Rakestraw brings a well-rounded skill set and the kind of physical mentality that would make him right at home in Dan Campbell's locker room.  61.  DE Marshawn Kneeland.  73.  WR Ja'Lynn Polk.  92.  OG Christian Mahogany.) (2-7-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-caleb-williams-chicago-bears-jj-mccarthy-denver-broncos-4-rounds

PFN Caswell (29. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia:  If they don’t trade up for a corner, the Lions are probably upset that Arnold went to the Packers at 25. However, Kamari Lassiter is still a really good player, and the Lions desperately need help in their cornerback room as it plagued them late in the year and in the playoffs.  Lassiter is a bit light with his 6’0″ and 180-pound frame, but he plays bigger than he is and brings his physicality into both the passing game and running game. He’s good in a man-to-man scheme and improved his technique and ball skills in 2023.) (2-21-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/josiah-caswell-2024-nfl-mock-draft-february/

NFL.com Dan Jeremiah (29. C Zach Frazier:  The Lions’ starting guards are scheduled to reach free agency this offseason, and this feels like Dan Campbell’s type of player. Frazier, a state-champion wrestler in high school, could step right in at guard and eventually move to center.) (2-20-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2024-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-four-quarterbacks-selected-in-first-eight-picks

Walter football Walt (29. Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame:  The Lions wanted Devon Witherspoon at No. 6, so perhaps they’ll obtain a cornerback with this pick.  Cam Hart is a big cornerback who limited Marvin Harrison Jr.  61. Detroit Lions: Layden Robinson, G, Texas A&M:  The Lions have a great offensive line, save for right guard. That could be addressed with this pick.  Layden Robinson isn’t very athletic, but he’s a violent blocker who has impressed this season.  73. Tahveon Nicholson, CB:  Here’s another cornerback for the Lions, who really need to address their secondary.  Tahveon Nicholson has some size concerns, but should do well in the slot.  93. Johnny Wilson, WR:  The Lions may bring in someone to challenge Jameson Williams, who has been a disappointment thus far.  Johnny Wilson is a massive receiver who might have to become a tight end in the NFL.) (2-20-24):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024.php

PFN Helms (29.  Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State:  I don’t love the idea of Detroit taking a wide receiver first, especially with holes in the secondary, but as Keon Coleman falls, I could see the Lions going in that direction. Coleman is extremely athletic and brings another unique skill set to a talented receiver room.) (2-19-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/will-helms-2024-nfl-mock-draft-feb-19/

PFN Catalina (29. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia:  The Lions choose to bolster their CB room with a productive Georgia corner. Kamari Lassiter seems to be slipping through the cracks while others get lifted around him.  Still, Lassiter can play ball. He’ll be someone who can help Detroit early on and add another athletic piece to the stout defense Campbell and Co. hope to build.) (2-19-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-catalina-2024-nfl-mock-draft-february/

Walter football Charlie (29. Jordan Morgan, OT:  The Lions need help at cornerback, but the first-round corner prospects are off the board. They could consider helping the offensive line. Their starting guards are free agents, and Taylor Decker is aging. Detroit could start out the rookie at guard and then eventually move him outside to form a tandem with Penei Sewell.  Morgan had an impressive senior year to help himself with NFL scouts. The 6-foot-5, 325-pound possesses excellent size, including length, height and weight, as well as strength and quickness. Morgan was a mainstay for the Wildcats as a starter over the past three seasons. In 2022, he allowed one sack in 670 total snaps. Morgan earned an invitation to the Senior Bowl, and some team sources believe he could be a nice value pick as a late first-round pick.   61. Cam Hart, CB:  The Lions could more cornerback talent.  The 6-foot-2, 205-pounder Hart is a big corner who will enter the next level with good development and experience. In 2023, Hart totaled 21 tackles, four passes broken up and three forced fumbles, but the numbers don’t illustrate how very good Hart was as a senior. He had a superb game against Marvin Harrison Jr., leading the way to limit the star receiver to three catches for 32 yards. Hart moves well for a big cornerback and can play man or zone coverage. With his skill set and experience, Hart could be a starter early in his NFL career. 73. Matt Goncalves, OT, Pittsburgh:  The Lions could use multiple offensive line draft picks with their guards hitting free agency and Taylor Decker aging.  At 6-foot-6, 330 pounds, Goncalves is a big edge blocker for the next level who started at both left and right tackle for Pittsburgh. The Panthers bounced Goncalves back and forth between right and left tackle over 2020-2022, and as a senior, he started at left tackle before going out for the year due to surgery. Goncalves is big, strong, and has good enough movement to stay on the edge in the NFL. His body type also could make him a candidate to play guard as a pro.  93. DeWayne Carter, DT, Duke:  In 2021, the Lions made a great pick by taking Alim McNeil in the third round. Levi Onwuzurike, meanwhile, was a good college player who has had a hard time staying healthy in the NFL. Detroit could use a defensive tackle to go with McNeil.  Carter (6-3, 305) was tough player for the Blue Devils in 2023. He was a solid run defender, making 39 tackles while recording one sack. Carter showed more pass-rush production in previous seasons. In 2022, he picked up 5.5 sacks. He recorded 4.5 sacks in 2021. Carter also totaled seven forced fumbles over that timespan. He is a sleeper who could be a nice value pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.) (2-12-24):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2024charlie_1.php?rbTop

DetroitLions.com Twentyman (29. DE Darius Robinson, Missouri: The Lions are looking for pass-rush help opposite Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson, and Robinson brings raw athletic traits and a physical brand of football to the table. He certainly fits the mold upfront for the style of play defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn wants.) (2-19-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-first-selections-robinson-williams-maye

Draft Network Fowler (29. CB Cooper DeJean:  I have a few concerns with Cooper DeJean as a man corner—a reason why he's available here—but his skill set inside a Dan Campbell defense is exciting, to say the least. Detroit needs corners, and DeJean not only can provide a boost in limiting explosive plays but is the most nuanced and physical run defender in the class as well. He'll make an impact in a variety of ways at the NFL level.) (2-19-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/02/18/nfl-mock-draft-2024-februrary-offense

PFN Cummings (21. Detroit Lions (From MIA): Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama.  Trade: Lions receive No. 21 pick, Dolphins receive No. 29 pick, No. 73 pick, 2025 third-round pick.  Under Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell, the Lions have proven that they’re willing to trade up for high-upside players who can make a transformative impact on the roster.  That’s what the Lions do in this 2024 NFL Mock Draft, taking advantage of a golden opportunity to trade up for Dallas Turner: The completing piece opposite Aidan Hutchinson.  Turner has the bristling speed, explosiveness, and bend to terrorize tackles and send them lurching in recovery, but he’s also an alignment-versatile, high-motor power generator.  67. Detroit Lions (From WAS): D.J. James, CB, Auburn.  Though D.J. James is a bit lighter at around 170 pounds, he’s a fast, twitched-up, physical, technically sound CB with great ball skills and support urgency.  92. Detroit Lions: Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State.  Braden Fiske is as close to a Dan Campbell “Kneecap-Biter” as you’ll get in this class, and he also brings the burst, compact strength, and violent hands to make an impression next to Alim McNeill.  137. Detroit Lions
Mason McCormick, OG, South Dakota State.  162.  Detroit Lions
Cornelius Johnson, WR, Michigan.  206. Detroit Lions Andrew Raym, OC, Oklahoma.  246. Detroit Lions Tykee Smith, S, Georgia) (2-17-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cummings-7-round-2024-nfl-mock-draft-february-17/

NFL.com Parr (29. CB Kool-Aid McKinstry:  I can hear Dan Campbell saying “Kool-Aid? Oh yeah!” when GM Brad Holmes sends this pick in. McKinstry’s game might not have a lot of flash, but he’s a well-schooled, confident cover corner who will reunite with Alabama teammate Brian Branch in the Detroit secondary.) (2-16-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/dan-parr-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0

CBS Stackpole (29. CB Nate Wiggins:  If the Lions want to make their first Super Bowl appearance, they'll need their pass defense to be better. (It was third-worst in the NFL in opponent yards per pass attempt in 2023.) Nate Wiggins, with his 6-foot-2 frame and lightning speed, would be a great start toward improving the secondary.) (2-16-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-buccaneers-replace-baker-mayfield-as-5-qbs-go-round-1-brock-bowers-falls-outside-top-15/

Draft wire Popejoy (29. DE Laiatu Latu, UCLA:  The Lions need to add some punch as a pass rusher to go along with Aidan Hutchinson and Laiatu Latu is a great all-around pick with some nice polish to his pass-rush moves.  61. C Zach Frazier, West Virginia.) (2-15-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-mock-draft-chiefs-bears-caleb-williams/

Draft Tek (29. DE Chop Robinson:  After a few weeks of licking their wounds at falling just short of the franchise's first-ever Super Bowl berth, Lions fans are turning to more familiar territory - scrutinizing the upcoming draft for talent infusions to get the team over the top. Among the team's key needs, Guard doesn't feel like a first-round investment, while Edge and Cornerback seem to be the leading contenders.  The Lions' D Line has some pieces, notably Aidan Hutchinson, but it needs a player or two to become a true 'get home with 4' pass rushing unit. One plausible path for GM Brad Holmes would be to add a starting corner in free agency, then draft for electric pass-rush ability on Round One.  Penn State Edge Chop Robinson is a speed rusher supreme, reminding some analysts of a bigger Micah Parsons. He has 4.47 speed and bench presses 400 pounds, all at 250+ pounds. His effort and intensity would fit into the Lions' "All Grit" culture and dramatically upgrade the team's rush depth. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst.  61. WR Xavier Worthy.  73. OC Sedrick Van Pran.  92. S Calen Bullock.  163. CB Renardo Green.  207. RB Kimani Vidal.  247. TE Theo Johnson) (2-15-24):  https://www.drafttek.com/2024-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp

FTW D'Andrea (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri - Needs: CB, WR, EDGE, LB.  2023’s efforts to rebuild the cornerback room didn’t pan out the way Detroit hoped. Cameron Sutton was stable, but also allowed a 112.3 passer rating in coverage. Emmanuel Moseley’s season ended after two snaps. Jerry Jacobs struggled and stopgap measures like Khalil Dorsey, Will Harris and Kindle Vildor effectively put a giant target on the Lions’ back.  Rakestraw is here to help. The Mizzou corner has similar size issues as Wiggins thanks to a thin frame, but that didn’t prevent him from being an asset in press coverage. He can jam wideouts and the line and then run in step with them, providing a much needed asset in the Lions’ secondary.) (2-15-24):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-mock-draft-super-bowl-bears-caleb-williams-drake-maye-chiefs-49ers

Yahoo Tice (29. Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA:  The drop stops for Latu, whose medicals will give concerns to quite a few teams, but the Lions get more pass rushing help to combine with Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill. Latu lacks ideal length and he’s just OK against the run, but his pass rushing chops are worth the trade-off. He constantly creates pressure and chaos in the backfield. Putting him on the other side of Hutchinson could create a whirlwind for quarterbacks to navigate.) (2-15-24):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2024-nfl-mock-draft-with-combine-looming-qbs-go-1-2-3-and-michigans-jj-mccarthy-goes-to-the-shanahan-tree-213603057.html


Fox sports Klatt (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw:  What a great playoff run it was for the Lions, but it was clear that they needed to help their secondary. Their pass rush is pretty good, but they need to help it out with a better secondary.) (2-14-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-mock-draft-patriots-seahawks-among-six-teams-selecting-first-round-qbs

ESPN Yates (29. DE Darius Robinson - Yates wrote: "Here's one of my favorite player-team fits, as Robinson feels like the kind of brute-force player the Lions crave on their roster. After 8.5 sacks in 2023, he would give Detroit a big boost on the edge opposite Aidan Hutchinson and could feast on favorable matchups while teams allocate resources to Hutchinson on every snap.") (2-14-24):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/02/21/detroit-lions-2024-mock-draft-predict-defense-first-round/72670607007/

CBS Podell (29. CB Kool-Aid McKinstry:  McKinstry, a 2023 First-Team All-American, has great size at 6-1, 195 pounds. He was also reliable in coverage, not allowing a touchdown on 1,206 career coverage snaps. However, his hand technique in press man coverage could be more assertive, and some scouts have questions about his speed downfield as well as his agility in the quick passing game. A solid 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine could rocket him up draft boards. The Lions could use another strong corner opposite Cameron Sutton.) (2-13-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-rams-take-j-j-mccarthy-to-learn-behind-matt-stafford-qbs-wrs-comprise-first-six-picks/

Sportskeeda Tony Pauline (29. Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State:  Both of the Lions’ starting guards are slated for free agency, and there’s not much waiting in the wings. Troy Fautanu of Washington received serious consideration here, but Beebe is a better fit and more in the mold of Dan Campbell.) (2-13-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/tony-pauline-post-super-bowl-first-round-nfl-mock-draft-qbs-go-1-2-3-jets-get-help-offense-raiders-pick-explosive-alabama-cb

PFN Anthony Miller (29. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia:  The second-half collapse in the NFC Championship Game should have Detroit only focus on defense in the offseason. Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter is quick and one of the best cornerbacks in the draft in run support, giving some physicality to the Lions’ defense.) (2-13-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2024-nfl-mock-draft-anthony-miller-marvin-harrison-jr-pick/

CFN (29. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB Alabama - Position Needs: DB, OG.  It got lost in the fog of the 2023 football season that McKinstry was supposed to be the star of the cornerback prospects in this draft. He still might be. No matter what, though ... DEFENSE. The Lions have to find defensive backs.) (2-13-24):   https://collegefootballnews.com/news/nfl-mock-draft-post-super-bowl-picks-25-to-32-2024

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (29. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri:  Stifling in man coverage, Rakestraw Jr. is exactly the kind of tenacious yet savvy cornerback that Dan Campbell would appreciate. He could help provide needed stability to a secondary that has been repeatedly reshuffled in recent years and still gave up 411 passing yards per game over the last six games of the season.) (2-12-24):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/02/12/nfl-mock-draft-2024-kansas-city-chiefs-receiver/72566758007/

NFL.com Reuter (29. DE Darius Robinson:  Robinson's 286-pound frame and quick hands made him a problem in one-on-ones at the Senior Bowl. Putting him opposite Aidan Hutchinson is a lose-lose situation for opposing blocking schemes.  61. WR Ladd McConkey.  73. CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr.  92. OG Christian Haynes) (2-12-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/three-round-2024-nfl-mock-draft-patriots-deal-for-justin-fields-in-one-of-five-first-round-trades

CBS Wilson (29. DT Byron Murphy II:  I can't imagine Murphy lasting this long; it's just that I couldn't find a place to slot him above. Either way, the Lions get a steal here with arguably the twitchiest interior defensive linemen in the class.) (2-12-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-post-super-bowl-edition-steelers-raiders-target-qbs-as-five-go-in-round-1/

PFF Sikkema (29. DE Darius Robinson:  I wouldn’t love Darius Robinson’s first-round fit for any team, but I can get on board with it for the Lions.  The Tigers edge rusher enjoyed a standout week at the Senior Bowl, and everything we’ve heard suggests that he is a top-50 lock. He played as an interior defensive lineman his entire college career before losing some weight and playing edge in 2023. He’s not an edge-bender, but his interior background makes him a powerful 5-tech defensive end with pass-rush potential to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson.  61. DT Braden Fiske, Florida State) (2-12-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-post-super-bowl-2024-nfl-mock-draft-five-quarterbacks-first-round

Draft Network Parson (29.  DE Darius Robinson:  Darius Robinson is a riser and it is well deserved. He went from playing inside to outside in 2023 and did it at a high level. He showcased everything necessary down in Mobile at the Senior Bowl. Pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson will be tough on opposing OLs.) (2-11-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/02/11/nfl-mock-draft-2024-qb-trades

PFN Fragoza (29. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia:  Kamari Lassiter doesn’t appear to receive the same hype as the other top CBs in the draft, but he could go much higher than 29th overall. If he doesn’t, expect Dan Campbell himself to sprint the card in.  Lassiter was flawless for Georgia last season, not allowing a single touchdown. He’ll lay his body on the line against the ground game, and he can turn and run with most WRs he’ll face.  61. WR Devontez Walker:  Devontez Walker has shades of Jalin Hyatt in his game. He’s a prototypical field stretcher, able to glide down the field and cash in with his length and ball tracking.  73. DT Ruke Orhorhoro:  Alim McNeill needs a running mate at defensive tackle, and Ruke Orhorhoro can be that and then some. He’s scheme-versatile and explosive, helping Detroit retool for another NFC title run.  92. OG Zak Zinter:  Zak Zinter has all of the intangibles you want in a lineman, and those same intangibles will endear him to head coach Dan Campbell. It also helps that he’s a bully at the line of scrimmage, especially on runs.  162. S Josh Proctor.  206. C Charles Turner.  246. QB Carter Bradley) (2-10-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/7-round-2024-nfl-mock-draft-james-fragoza-february/

NFL.com Freuland (29. DE Robinson:  The Lions' pass rush and perimeter defense are two areas of need. Detroit goes with the former in this simulation, selecting the Penn State edge rusher who boasts elite burst off the ball. Robinson's college speed -- in pads -- ranked in the eighth percentile at his position (10-season sample). Pretty sure DC Aaron Glenn wouldn't mind working with that.) (2-9-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/cynthia-frelund-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-bears-pass-on-qb-commanders-land-caleb-williams

SN (29. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri (6-0, 188 pounds):  The Lions' big issues with downfield cornerback coverage outside finally burned them for good against the 49ers. Rakestraw, a rising prospect to keep watching in the process, will be attractive to Aaron Glenn because of aggressive, fearless and physical man-to-man coverage.) (2-9-24):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2024-bears-commanders-broncos-49ers-chiefs/1f3e3cf755190f81f6dea14a

Draft Network Sanchez (29. Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa:  This will be no shocker at all. The Lions need to address the secondary. Cooper DeJean is a corner with length and athleticism that can find the football. This is exactly the type of player that fits well with the Lions' culture.) (2-7-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/02/04/nfl-mock-draft-2024-caleb-williams-kliff-kingsbury

PFN Reyna (29.  Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo:  As the NFC title game and playoffs showed, the Lions were missing a true No. 1 cornerback.  Capable of becoming both an Aaron Glenn and Dan Campbell favorite, Quinyon Mitchell‘s stock has risen following an impressive Senior Bowl, which saw him lock up the best wideouts on the field. He’s a sticky man coverage defender with a rumored 4.3 time in the 40-yard dash and can stuff the run.) (2-7-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/lorenzo-reyna-2024-nfl-mock-draft-super-bowl-week/

PFN Hodgkinson (29. Detroit Lions: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas:  Dan Campbell has built the Detroit Lions in his image. A furious bunch of knee-cap biters, defensive dominance is the key to them taking the next step as a Super Bowl contender.  Adding Texas DT Byron Murphy II to their front seven gives the Lions a ludicrous behemoth who can obliterate offensive linemen with power or explosiveness as an unstoppable force.) (2-6-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2024-nfl-mock-draft-brock-bowers-joe-alt-mds/

NFL.com Zierlein (29. DE Darius Robinson:  Robinson made the move from the interior to defensive end with impressive results this past season at Mizzou. He can rush from inside or the edge and help create a fearsome front for the Lions.) (2-5-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-falcons-patriots-make-trades-to-land-qbs

ESPN Miller (29. DE Laiatu Latu - Yates wrote: "Here's one of my favorite player-team fits, as Robinson feels like the kind of brute-force player the Lions crave on their roster. After 8.5 sacks in 2023, he would give Detroit a big boost on the edge opposite Aidan Hutchinson and could feast on favorable matchups while teams allocate resources to Hutchinson on every snap."  61. CB TJ Tampa:  Miller is calling the 6-foot-2, 200-pound defensive back the potential answer to the Lions' cornerback question.) (2-14-24):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/02/21/detroit-lions-2024-mock-draft-predict-defense-first-round/72670607007/

Touchdown wire Bailey (29. Detroit Lions: DT T'Vondre Sweat, Texas) (2-4-25):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-mock-draft-senior-bowl-caleb-williams-drake-maye/

NFL.com Edholm (29. CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr:  Detroit was forced to shuffle its secondary this season and needs better coverage options outside. Rakestraw's medical evaluation (torn ACL in 2021, groin surgery in December) could determine whether he cracks Round 1, but his profile fits what the Lions seek. He's tough-minded, a willing tackler and adept in man coverage. Fun fact: GM Brad Holmes' first pro day as an NFL scout was at Mizzou.) (2-2-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/eric-edholm-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-chargers-grab-te-brock-bowers-at-no-5-qb-j-j-mccarthy-to-rams

USA Today Davis (29. Detroit Lions: DE Chop Robinson, Penn State:  Aidan Hutchinson was their only feared pass rusher in 2023. Another All-Big Ten selection could change that ... with a touch of seasoning.) (1-30-24):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/01/29/nfl-mock-draft-2024-caleb-williams-jayden-daniels-quarterbacks/72398714007/

PFN Caplan (29. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo:  For Detroit to make another deep playoff run, they must address the cornerback position, one of the top needs for the short and long-term future. The underrated Quinyon Mitchell would be a solid value here.  First mock draft selection: Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington.  Pre-Draft Needs: OLB, CB, G, WR, DT) (1-29-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/adam-caplan-2024-nfl-mock-draft-january/

Draft Network Melo (29. Detroit Lions - Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama: The Lions should continue improving their pass defense, which is arguably their biggest weakness. With the likes of Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, Emmanuel Moseley, and Kindle Vildor playing on expiring contracts, there's a need for general manager Brad Holmes to address the cornerback position early. Alabama's Kool-Aid McKinstry pairs size with athleticism, leading to a desirable overall make-up.) (1-28-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/28/nfl-mock-draft-2024-playmakers

Fox sports Rang (30. CB Quinyon Mitchell:  The Lions are playing for a Super Bowl berth despite surrendering 4,205 passing yards and 28 touchdowns through the air, both 26th in the NFL. Mitchell may not have the national name recognition of his peers, but he didn't allow a single touchdown reception this season and is a reliable open-field tackler — attributes a club with four free agents at cornerback should value.) (1-25-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-mock-draft-bears-commanders-vikings-and-bucs-add-first-round-qbs


NFL.com Brooks (30. DE Chop Robinson:  The Lions need to find a complementary pass rusher to place opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Robinson is a freak athlete.)  (1-22-24):  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0


PFN Dalton Miller (30. Kalen King, CB, Penn State:  Dan Campbell, meet knee biter. Knee biter, Dan Campbell.  Now that the introductions are done, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. This isn’t an outstanding cornerback class, but injuries and one-year contracts at the position necessitate the potentiality. Kalen King‘s downhill trigger and physicality against the run and screen game more than makeup for his underwhelming size.  Harrison bullied King in their matchup, and the same will likely happen against other physical receivers at the next level. But King won’t have to face a generational prospect weekly, and his route recognition and reactionary athleticism make him a fun fit in this defense.) (1-17-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/dalton-miller-2024-nfl-mock-draft-january/


Biglead Phillips (28. Detroit Lions: Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon:  The Lions' cupboard is bare at cornerback, it's time to change that. Jackson is a physical specimen at 6-foot-3, 195 pounds with great speed.) (1-11-24):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/nfl-mock-draft-2024-bears-caleb-williams-patriots-01hkqzwbgyf2

NBC sports Rogers (28. T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State:  It’s been a great season for the Lions where their offense continues to ascend and their front seven made some serious strides. Yet, this is a secondary that still needs more cover talent. Tampa’s length and vertical speed make him plug and play at outside corner.) (1-11-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-3-0-qbs-caleb-williams-drake-maye-still-on-top-for-connor-rogers

Fox sports McIntyre (28. Detroit Lions: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State:  The Lions need to start planning for 2025, when they'll have to pay big money to keep Jared Goff, Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown and promising DT Alim McNeill. Yes, there are a ton of holes on defense, but I'd go with Egbuka here over any cornerback.) (1-10-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-mock-draft-bears-commanders-patriots-add-qbs-first-7-picks-on-offense

Draft wire Risdon (27. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo:  Mitchell hasn’t faced much in the way of NFL-caliber competition at either WR or QB, but he’s dominated at Toledo for the last two seasons. He’s got the speed, length and physicality to translate it to the NFL, too. If Aaron Glenn returns as the Lions defensive coordinator, outside corner is far and away the team’s biggest need.) (1-5-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-mock-draft-before-week-18-jayden-daniels-top-pick/

Round 1 (34 CB, 16 DE, 4 DT, 3 WR, 3 OT, 1 OG, 1 OC, 1 S):

10 CB Ennis Rakestraw
7 DE Darius Robinson
5 CB Kamari Lassiter 
5 CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
5 CB Quinyon Mitchell 
5 DE Chop Robinson 
3 DE Laiatu Latu
3 CB Cooper DeJean
2 DT Byron Murphy 
2 DT T’Vondre Sweat
2 OT Jordan Morgan 
1 CB Kalen King
1 CB Khyree Jackson 
1 CB Cam Hart
1 CB Nate Wiggins 
1 CB Mike Sainristil
1 CB TJ Tampa 
1 WR Emeka Egbuka 
1 WR Keon Coleman 
1 WR Adonai Mitchell 
1 OG Cooper Beebe 
1 OC Zach Frazier
1 OT Troy Fatanu 
1 DE Dallas Turner
1 S Tyler Nubin

Round 2 (4 CB, 3 WR, 2 DE, 1 DT, 1 OG, 1 OC):

1 WR Xavier Worthy
1 WR Devontez Walker
1 WR Ladd McConkey
1 CB Caelen Carson
1 CB Cam Hart
1 CB TJ Tampa 
1 CB Kris Abrams-Draine
1 DT Braden Fiske
1 DE Marshawn Kneeland
1 DE Jonah Elliss
1 C Zach Frazier
1 G Layden Robinson 

Round 3 Pick 73 (3 CB, 2 WR, 2 DT, 1 OT, 1 OC):

1 DT Ruke Orhorhoro
1 DT Leonard Taylor III
1 CB Tahveon Nicholson
1 CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr.
1 CB DJ James
1 WR Ja'Lynn Polk
1 WR Ricky Pearsall
1 OT Matt Goncalves 
1 OC Sedrick Van Pran

Round 3 Pick 92 (3 OG, 3 DT, 2 WR, 1 S):

2 DT DeWayne Carter
1 WR Johnny Wilson 
1 WR Tez Walker
1 DT Braden Fiske
1 OG Christian Mahogany
1 OG Christian Haynes
1 OG Zak Zinter
1 S Calen Bullock

Round 5 Pick 137 (Trade) (1 OG):

1 OG Mason McCormick

Round 5 pick 163 (1 WR, 1 CB, 1 S, 1 OT):

1 CB Renardo Green
1 OT Gottlieb Ayedze
1 WR Cornelius Johnson 
1 S Josh Proctor

Round 6 (2 OC, 1 TE, 1 RB):

1 TE AJ Barner
1 RB Kimani Vidal
1 OC Charles Turner
1 OC Andrew Raym

Round 7 (1 QB, 1 CB, 1 TE, 1 S):

1 CB Isaiah Johnson
1 QB Carter Bradley
1 TE Theo Johnson
1 S Tykee Smith


Posted by LionsFan at 9:55 AM

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