CBS Wilson (6. DE Tyree Wilson: 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 Tyree Wilson with Aidan Hutchinson is too good to pass up. 18. CB Deonte Banks: Maryland teammate and fellow CB Jakorian Bennett got much of the buzz in the fall, but Banks but together the type of season that will land him in the first-round conversation. He's a fluid athlete who is also a big, physical corner who can match up with NFL wide receivers.) (4-2-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-titans-raiders-trade-up-but-only-one-of-them-goes-after-a-qb-anthony-richardson-top-3/
Tankathon (6. DT Jalen Carter. 18. TE Michael Mayer. 48. CB Tyrique Stevenson. 55. LB Jack Campbell. 81. WR Michael Wilson) (4-1-23): https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft
CBS Stackpole (6. DT Jalen Carter: Jalen Carter has had legal issues and a disappointing pro day, but he'd be a perfect fit in the middle of the Lions' defensive front. Dan Campbell and Co. bet on being able to get the most out of the supremely talented defender out of Georgia. 18. TE Darnell Washington: Adding Darnell Washington would do a lot of good for the surging Lions offense. Not only would he open holes for the dangerous duo of D'Andre Swift and David Montgomery, but he'd also be a great red zone option for Jared Goff, taking a lot of attention off Amon-Ra St. Brown.) (4-1-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-will-levis-goes-outside-top-10-cowboys-land-best-rb-prospect-since-saquon-barkley/
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) (4-1-23): https://collegefootballnews.com/nfl-draft/nfl-mock-draft-after-the-2023-nfl-combine-now-where-do-the-quarterbacks-go
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. 78. 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
CBS Edwards (11. DE Lukas Van Ness (Mock Trade from Tennessee Titans: Detroit was able to slide back five spots, pick up a Day 2 selection and still land an edge rusher with upside. Lukas Van Ness is a powerful edge rusher that tested off the charts athletically. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: Devon Witherspoon is a fiery personality with a physical play style. He should fit right into that Dan Campbell defense that added a former Illini defensive back last year in the draft, safety Kerby Joseph. 41. Lions (via Tennessee) - Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin. 48. Lions - Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State. 55. Lions - Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa. 81. OG Chandler Zavala) (3-30-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-three-round-mock-draft-colts-trade-for-lamar-jackson-ravens-replace-star-with-anthony-richardson/
Athlon sports Easterling (6. DT Jalen Carter: Carter's off-field situation could lead to a draft-day tumble, but if he's still on the board here, the combination of need and value might be too much for the Lions to pass up. Landing perhaps the best prospect in the entire class outside of the top five picks would be a huge steal. 18. OG O'Cyrus Torrence: The Lions have done a great job at filling most of their needs via free agency, but one of the few spots in the starting lineup that could still use an upgrade is at guard. Torrence in this year's best interior blocker, and his ability to start from Day 1 would make him more than worthy of a top-20 pick. 48. LB Daiyan Henley. 55. S Antonio Johnson) (3-30-23): https://athlonsports.com/nfl/nfl-mock-draft-cj-stroud-bryce-young-anthony-richardson-will-levis
CBS Trapasso (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Yes, the Lions added to the secondary in free agency, but that shouldn't stop them for grabbing Gonzalez here to play opposite Jeff Okudah. 18. TE Dalton Kincaid: The Lions replace T. J. Hockenson with the sure-handed Dalton Kincaid, further helping Jared Goff. 45. S Antonio Johnson. 55. WR Bryce Ford-Wheaton. 81. RB Zach Charbonnet) (3-29-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-three-round-mock-draft-buccaneers-trade-up-for-qb-steelers-eagles-add-pass-catchers-in-round-2/
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. WR Quentin Johnston: The Lions' efficient offseason moves along the O-Line and secondary have the roster in pretty nice shape. This allows for more of a BPA approach in this year's draft, rather than need picks aimed at patching up the squad. One roster slot that could be addressed while taking top talent is at the X receiver spot, where DJ Chark had a nice year in 2022 before taking his talents to Charlotte in free agency. TCU wideout Quentin Johnston is a dead ringer for Chark at 6-2 and 200 pounds, and he's expected to clock a sub-4.4 40 time at his Pro Day March 30. There are concerns with ability to escape press contact off the line, as well as his 11.8 percent drop rate in college, higher than the NFL average of 6.6 percent. But he is a blazer who breaks a ton of tackles. Johnston would make a nice complement for Amon Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams and a big target for Jared Goff. --Jud Branam, Lions Analyst. 48. RB Jahmyr Gibbs. 55. LB DAIYAN Henley. 81. LB Jack Campbell. 152. TE Payne Durham. 183. CB Keidron Smith. 194. CB Christian Braswell.) (3-29-23): https://www.drafttek.com/2023-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp
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/
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. Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa Iowa: 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. Jack Campbell has the size and athleticism to be a three-down player in the NFL. 48. CB Mekhi Blackmon, CB, USC USC: The Lions could address cornerback as early as No. 6 overall, so this pick makes sense if they wait on the position. Mekhi Blackmon is a small cornerback, but he has great speed. He was terrific at the Senior Bowl. 55. TE Luke Musgrave: Alex Anzalone is okay, but the Lions need more linebacker talent to go with late-round steal Malcolm Rodriguez. Even if Anzalone is re-signed, Detroit should add some linebacker upgrades to improve the middle of its defense. In 2022, Overshown totaled 95 tackles, four sacks and five passes broken up. He recorded 74 tackles, two passes broken up and two sacks in 2021. In 2020, he totaled 60 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and seven passes defended. Overshown is a fast linebacker with crazy track speed and athleticism. He can really run and has coverage potential, but the 6-foot-3, 229-pounder can get destroyed in the ground game and needs to get bigger, stronger and tougher for the NFL. 81. Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia Georgia: The Lions may want a quarterback to groom behind Jared Goff. Stetson Bennett was very clutch in big games for Georgia. He'll look to become the next Brock Purdy or Colt McCoy. 151. 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.) (3-28-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023.php
CBS Brinson (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: I'd never be surprised to see the Lions draft a hog molly on either side of the ball, but with their investments in the trenches the last few years they could dabble on the back end of this defense. 18. TE Michael Mayer: Detroit dealt T.J. Hockenson midseason last year and has a void at tight end. The Lions could have gone Luke Musgrave here, but Mayer is a run-blocker who fits what Dan Campbell and this front office like to build around. Detroit adding protection up front for Jared Goff improvement is a very interesting thought.) (3-28-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-lamar-jackson-traded-to-colts-jordan-love-gets-wr-after-aaron-rodgers-trade/
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-
PFN Broback (6. Detroit Lions (via CAR) - CB Christian Gonzalez: After the NFL Combine, Christian Gonzalez remains CB1 for me. He’s a player with good length and ball skills, and he displayed his athleticism at the Combine. With C.J. Gardner-Johnson at safety, the Detroit Lions are looking for someone to dominate opposite Jeff Okudah, and Gonzalez would be a great fit. He’s a developing player who’s yet to hit his peak and has plenty of tools that will help him right away. 18. DT Calijah Kancey: Detroit’s defense returns a good core of pass rushers on the edge, and Calijah Kancey gives them the perfect complement. His explosive first step puts blockers at a disadvantage immediately, and he’ll most likely face one-on-one matchups to exploit that on a frequent basis.) (3-28-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-jaxon-smith-njigba-rises-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
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 narrowly missed the playoffs last year, and an underrated reason why was a lack of talent in the middle of their defense. They couldn't stop the run against Carolina late in the season, and the Lions had some other games get away early in the year from spotty run defense and an inability to defend mobile quarterbacks. Here is a smart, tough, instinctive defender 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 Luke Musgrave: 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. Musgrave recorded 11 receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown in 2022. He played in just the first two games of the year before missing the rest due to injury. However, team sources are high on Musgrave as an early-round talent. The 6-foot-6, 253-pounder has good size and flashed receiving ability in 2021, catching 22 passes for 304 yards and a touchdown. Musgrave could be a riser as the 2023 NFL Draft nears. 55. CB Cam Mitchell: The Lions grab some corner depth to go behind Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley. 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 this coming April in the 2023 NFL Draft. 81. QB Tanner McKee: The Lions could use a backup quarterback with upside. While Stanford struggled in 2022, McKee (6-6, 231) impressed some NFL evaluators. He possesses excellent size, a strong arm capable of firing the ball downfield, and nice loft on touch passes. In 2022, McKee completed 62 percent of his passes for 2,947 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. In 2021, he completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,327 yards, 15 touchdowns and seven picks. McKee has the potential to rise over the draft process with good interviews, visits, and workouts that show off his arm.) (3-27-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2023charlie.php
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/
CBS Fornelli (6. DT Jalen Carter: Carter's legal issues are no longer a problem, and I'm not sure any NFL team was as concerned about them as they were about his performance at his pro day. Still, I don't expect he'll fall too far in the draft, and he fills a need for Detroit in the middle of its defensive line. 18. TE Michael Mayer: The Lions need a bigger-bodied target in the receiving game, but there isn't an obvious choice at WR. So why not go with a big-bodied tight end who is just as effective in the passing game as an in-line blocker? Mayer is the type of player I can see the Lions appreciating. He's a similar player to T.J. Hockenson, but without what would've been nearly a $10 million cap hit in 2023.) (3-24-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-mock-draft-commanders-trade-up-for-qb-panthers-select-c-j-stroud-with-top-pick/
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
NFL.com Reuter (6. DT Jalen Carter: Carter's pro day performance was far from ideal, but the quick resolution of his legal issues could allay teams' concerns about picking him in the top 10. The Lions need playmakers like Carter on the defensive interior, with 2021 second-round pick Levi Onwuzurike unable to contribute last season because of a back issue that has bothered him since his college days. 18. CB Devon Witherspoon: 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) (3-24-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/four-round-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-qbs-go-1-2-3-after-colts-trade-up
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
Touchdown wire Farrar (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: The Lions made two great cornerback deals in free agency with the signings of Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley, and the addition of C.J. Gardner-Johnson to pair with Kerby Joseph at safety is a home run, but do they need more? Detroit was a slam-dunk at cornerback for every mock drafter last week, and maybe it still should be. It will be hard for the Lions to move past Witherspoon — last season, the Illinois alum had numbers that bordered on the ridiculous, and the tape backed it up. Witherspoon was sidelined from scouting combine drills due to a hamstring injury, but the Lions would greatly transform their secondary even more than they did in free agency with his addition. 18. CB Deonte Banks, Maryland: Detroit’s flurry of activity in free agency shores up the secondary for 2023, but the long-term remains scant; only newcomer Cameron Sutton and two-year starter Jerry Jacobs are under contractual control beyond 2023 of the CBs who will actually play. There is still work to be done at cornerback, and that leads to a premium athlete like Banks. At Maryland, Banks thrived in press man coverage and using his physicality and length to disrupt opposing passing games. That’s straight out of central casting for what defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn wants in his outside CBs. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire) (3-24-23): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-post-free-agency-mock-draft-trades-bryce-young-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson-will-levis/
NFL.com Davis (6. DE Nolan Smith: After putting on a show at the NFL Scouting Combine, Mr. Smith packs for the Motor City to give Aidan Hutchinson a tag-team partner. Cornerback is also a consideration here. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez: Despite signing several new DBs in free agency, the Lions again look to bolster a secondary that has to deal with Minnesota's Justin Jefferson twice per season.) (3-23-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/charles-davis-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-panthers-pick-c-j-stroud-at-no-1-vikings-t
CBS Prisco (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: They added some corner help in free agency, especially Cam Sutton, but you can never have enough corners in this league. Christian Gonzalez is the best of this class. 18. TE Michael Mayer: They traded away T.J. Hockenson last year, so why not get his replacement? They have some solid guys, but Michael Mayer can be special. He is the top tight end in this class in my book.) (3-22-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/priscos-2023-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-qbs-fly-off-board-as-four-go-in-top-5-bears-add-defense-after-trading-down/
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/
SN (6. QB Will Levis: The Lions should be on high alert to take a QB with a higher ceiling than Jared Goff given how everything else is coming together for their loaded offense with Levis' cannon being the key calling card. Detroit could think about moving on from Goff soon and push to win big with a QB on a rookie contract. 18. TE Dalton Kincaid: Kincaid didn't work out at the Combine because of a minor back injury but the fact Mayer disappointed with his athleticism helped Kincaid stand out more for his skill set as a smooth, potential game-breaking receiver. The Lions should think about him as a strong receiving-first replacement for T.J. Hockenson.) (3-22-23): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2023-lions-eagles-vikings-cowboys-free-agency/ngis2pis0ipkjztipgrmiszm
PFN Mellor (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The best pure cover cornerback in this class heads to the Detroit Lions as Dan Campbell and Co. are happy to sit still here. Christian Gonzalez emerged on the scene at Oregon but has put together some impressive reps during high school and even his Colorado college days. He’s a terrific addition to an ascending defense. 16. LB Trenton Simpson (Trade: The Lions send pick Nos. 18 and 81 in 2023 as well as a 2024 sixth-round pick in exchange for pick No. 16 in 2023 and a 2024 seventh-round pick from Washington.): Washington shopped their pick here all over as their top two desired players at cornerback were gone. With Trenton Simpson sliding a bit, the Lions were happy to meet the Commanders’ price to move up two spots and grab their three-down LB of the future. 48. TE Darnell Washington. 55. S JL Skinner) (3-21-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-trades-dominate-round-1-cj-stroud-anthony-richardson/
ESPN Kiper (6. DT Jalen Carter. 18. TE Michael Mayer) (3-21-23): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/espns-mel-kiper-sends-jalen-carter-top-tight-end-to-lions-in-latest-mock.html
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/
PFN Cummings (6. QB Will Levis: Jared Goff is the Lions’ starter for 2023, and he’ll be very good again under Ben Johnson. But soon, he’ll need an extension. Picking sixth, the Lions have a unique opportunity to add his successor in Will Levis and ease him in over time. In one or two years, Levis takes the reins as a much cheaper starter with much greater upside on a roster that’s ready to roll. 18. WR Quentin Johnston: Quentin Johnston is that puzzle piece that won’t fit many sides of the board. But in the exact right spot, he can be a terrifying offensive threat. Detroit might just be the place for him. The Lions’ OC would know how to utilize Johnston’s RAC ability underneath, and with Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown dictating coverage elsewhere, Johnston could pick apart defenses at all levels. 48. Sydney Brown, S, Illinois: Joining up with his college teammate 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. 55. Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State: Now stocked with a dominant WR corps, the Lions add Tucker Kraft to serve as the physical RAC threat over the middle of the field. And as a bonus, he can block with the best. 81. Jaylon Jones, CB, Texas A&M: Even with Jeff Okudah, Cameron Sutton, and Emmanuel Moseley, adding a high-upside talent like Jaylon Jones is worthwhile at CB. 152. Mike Morris, DL, Michigan. 183. Nesta Jade Silvera, DT, Arizona State. 194. Mohamoud Diabate, LB, Utah.) (3-18-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-c-j-stroud-anthony-richardson-jalen-carter-find-new-homes-in-round-1/
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
Draft wire Popejoy (6. QB Will Levis. 18. DE Myles Murphy. 48. TE Luke Musgrave. 55. CB Tyrique Stevenson. 81. G Jarrett Patterson) (3-17-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-mock-update-stroud-jalen-carter/
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
Fox sports Hellman and Vitali (6. Detroit Lions: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois: 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. Detroit Lions: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State: 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?) (3-15-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-mock-draft-shakeup-at-the-top-how-do-free-agents-affect-choices
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/
USA Today Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz (6. DE Tyree Wilson: For all of the improvements the Lions' defense made down the stretch last season, allowing 320 rushing yards to the Panthers in a Week 16 loss was the unit's undoing. The 6-6, 271-pound Wilson combines the quickness to run down ball carriers with the length to engulf them. He should also generate pressure on passers thanks to his sheer power, though he's unlikely to be as quick of a study as Aidan Hutchinson was as a rookie. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: Is there a player for whom it's more difficult to project a landing spot? A running back who seemingly leaves almost every would-be tackler grasping for air, Robinson is considered by many a top-10 player in this draft. Yet it's difficult to determine which team would be willing to spend a first-round pick on him given the current landscape for investing in young ball carriers. Detroit would be a sensible fit if the team doesn't bring back Jamaal Williams, especially given the contributions Robinson could make as a receiver to boost Jared Goff and the passing attack.The former No. 1 overall recruit didn't find the prolific production expected of him at the collegiate level, in part due a torn ACL that kept him out for almost all of 2021. His explosiveness is still evident, however, and should be enticing to a Detroit team needing something extra on the interior of its defensive line.) (3-11-23): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/03/11/nfl-mock-draft-2023-panthers-trade-bears-pick-quarterback/11449987002/
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
SI NFL Draft Sirretella (6. Detroit Lions (via LAR): CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State – Fitting in with the ‘tough-guy’ mantra that the Lions preach on defense, the physical Porter Jr. would be an ideal fit in the secondary. 18. Detroit Lions: TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame – The Lions wideouts came on strong last season, adding Mayer to the mix would provide quarterback Jared Goff with a safety valve underneath.) (3-9-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/serritella-2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-combine-edition
MLive Kyle Meinke (6. Detroit Lions (via Rams): Clemson edge Myles Murphy: The Lions have been plain about their intentions. They’re open to improving all positions in the draft, including quarterback. But their priority is adding playmakers to their league-worst defense, and that’s especially true up front and at cornerback. “It’s just my own personal belief, is that you always build a defense with defensive linemen and corners,” defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said during combine week in Indianapolis. “So we’ll always look for that. It’s just what I believe in, because you can never have enough of those guys.” There are plenty of high-end prospects available at both positions, and cornerback has emerged as the favorite in recent mocks. One look at the roster, and it’s easy to see why. But let’s not overthink it. This regime wants to win in the trenches, and has drafted like it by targeting versatile big men like Penei Sewell, Alim McNeill, Aidan Hutchinson and Josh Paschal on the first two days of their first two drafts. All things being equal, I think the Lions would prefer to stick with that blueprint by drafting another versatile pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston. That’s especially true if a talent like Tyree Wilson really does fall to them. MWilson certainly looks the part, standing 6-foot-6 and 275 pounds with a wingspan of 86 inches. Just for some perspective, that’s 1 inch shorter than Giannis’ wingspan, even though Giannis is 6-foot-11. So, yeah. Freaky stuff. And Wilson used that long, explosive frame to overpower opponents from across the defensive front, a breathtaking show of force and athleticism that is sure to draw the eye of a Lions regime that was going crazy for Aidan Hutchinson this time last year. Now pair Hutchinson and Houston with another elite, versatile pass rusher, and Detroit could unleash its best pass rush in a decade. 18. CB Joey Porter Jr.: The Lions passed on Sauce Gardner, the defensive rookie of the year, to take Aidan Hutchinson in last year’s draft. Seems to have worked out for them too, now that Hutchinson has filled an immediate need, led all rookies in sacks and finished runner-up to Gardner for DROY. But the need at cornerback has continued to grow. Amani Oruwariye, Jeff Okudah and Mike Hughes were all benched last season. Only Okudah remains under contract from that mix, and if the Lions don’t pick up his fifth-year option -- which seems likely at this point -- he’ll be headed for a contract year. Given all that, it’s not a shock to see Devon Witherspoon and Christian Gonzalez getting so much love for the Lions at No. 6. But if they land a more premium player (like Tyree Wilson) at a more premium position (like edge rusher), they could still have a shot at a top cornerback prospect like Porter or Deonte Banks at No. 18. They also have the ammunition to climb a few spots if they’re concerned about missing the top of that class. And Brad Holmes has been unafraid to make aggressive moves up the board before, including in the first round last year. Among the cornerbacks left, I like Porter the most for Detroit. He allowed just 15 catches (on 30 targets) for 143 yards last season. At 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds, the former Penn State star is known for bullying receivers with in-your-face press man. That fits into what the Lions want under Aaron Glenn. That, and a bit of attitude. “The first thing that (I look for in corners) is personality,” Glenn said at the combine. “Like, how do they come in? How confident are they? How do they go about opportunity with the installs? And me personally, I can tell right off the top, is this one of the guys that’s going to get after it because of just the way he operates? There is a certain aura about him, and I would say this about a corner and a receiver, that you can get immediately just from personality-wise.” And personality-wise, Porter’s got it. “I’m a physical press corner who’s going to get in your face and make life miserable for you,” Porter said at the combine. “I’m CB1 for a reason. I’m the best corner here, and I want to show out my skills and prove it here.”) (3-8-23): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/kyle-meinkes-2023-nfl-mock-draft-20-lions-land-tyree-wilson-top-cornerback.html
Fox sports Vacchiano and Arthur (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: The Lions need defensive help just about everywhere after tying with the Vikings for the NFL's third-worst scoring defense last season. Christian Gonzalez, who had a great combine, makes a lot of sense here. Detroit needs cornerback help and Jeff Okudah hasn't lived up to the expectations that come with being a No. 3 overall pick, between injuries and production. 18. DE Nolan Smith: The 6-foot-2, 238-pound Smith dazzled at the NFL combine, running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and posting a 41½-inch vertical. He's raw from a production standpoint (he had just three sacks at Georgia last season), but his upside is through the roof. In Detroit he could complement 2022 No. 1 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson and fellow rookie James Houston, who combined for 17.5 sacks last season.) (3-8-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-mock-draft-whats-the-first-round-outlook-after-the-combine
Draft Network Eisner (6. Tyree Wilson EDGE, Texas Tech: A deep corner class may be the tie-breaker that allows Brad Holmes to take the last player in the top tier of EDGEs, Tyree Wilson. Wilson’s wingspan made headlines at the NFL Combine and he would be a great addition to Detroit’s young pass-rush group. Wilson and Aidan Hutchinson can wreak havoc for years to come with James Houston IV serving as fresh legs on passing downs. 18. CB Joey Porter: I didn’t expect Joey Porter Jr. to fall this far when I began this NFL mock draft, but he can’t slide past Detroit. Forget the name, NFL legacy, etc. The Lions need to upgrade their CB room opposite Jeff Okudah and Porter Jr. is highly talented and has insane length. He has warts in his game that need to be addressed—some teams will have him ranked outside their top tier of corners—but with solid coaching, I think the Lions can get the most out of him. 48. Jack Campbell LB, Iowa: I love the fit of Jack Campbell in Detroit. His size and physicality will play well in Aaron Glenn’s defense as a MIKE to build around. 55. Roschon Johnson RB, Texas: I don’t know what the long-term future looks like in Detroit’s backfield. One thing I do know is that Roschon Johnson deserves more love. He has the size and strength of a power rusher but a bit more agility than what that archetype conjures up. Once he emerges from Bijan Robinson’s shadow, he’ll shine.) (3-8-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-post-nfl-combine/
Dane Brugler (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DT Calijah Kancey) (3-7-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/7/23628930/2023-nfl-post-combine-mock-dane-brugler-todd-mcshay-detroit-lions-christian-gonzalez
NFL.com Zierlein (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: The sixth overall pick would seem like a ripe trade-in spot to get the last of the "big four" quarterbacks, but Detroit sits tight and grabs the ballhawking cornerback out of Illinois.The Detroit Lions showed they mean business last year, but there is only so much business you can mean if you don't have a better secondary. 18. RB Bijan Robinson: Let's go! The talented Longhorn back combines power and wiggle -- and he can have a similar impact on an offense to what we saw this past season from Josh Jacobs in Las Vegas. Baller move here, Brad Holmes!) (3-7-23): https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2023-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-ravens-trade-lamar-jackson-to-falcons-dra
ESPN McShay (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness) (3-7-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/7/23628930/2023-nfl-post-combine-mock-dane-brugler-todd-mcshay-detroit-lions-christian-gonzalez
PFN Miller (6. CB Christian Gonzalez: Christian Gonzalez, you are a Detroit Lion. It’s a common pick in mock drafts because the Lions need to improve in the secondary after spending a few years building their trenches up. Gonzalez might not have been the best cornerback in college football last season, but his projection to the pro level is scrumptious. His father was a basketball player at Oregon, and his sisters are track stars. When watching him play, it’s clear that Gonzalez hit the genetic lottery. He’s not as clean of a prospect as Patrick Surtain II was, but the way he carries receivers vertically downfield is as effortless as it was for Surtain, who never really looked like he was trying very hard. 18. Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa: The athletic gap between pass rushers and the men blocking them continues to grow. Lukas Van Ness is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound defensive end who just ran a 4.58. Oh, and he has 34-inch arms and 11-inch hands, so length is certainly not an issue in his game, either. Detroit has some bendy pass rushers on the roster already. Because of his size and athleticism, Van Ness can play anywhere from a 4i to a wide 9, playing either with a hand in the dirt or from a two-point stance. No NFL team has ever had too many pass rushers. And a unit of Van Ness, Josh Paschal, Romeo Okwara, and Aidan Hutchinson on third downs could cause night terrors for opposing QBs. 48. LB Jack Campbell. 55. S Jordan Battle. 81. WR A.T. Perry) (3-4-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-colts-and-panthers-make-big-trades-while-titans-draft-will-levis/
Draft Network Parson (9. Detroit Lions (via CAR)* CB Joey Porter Jr. (TRADE - DET receives: Pick No. 9, Pick No. 93, 2024 1st-round pick. CAR receives: Pick No. 6): The Lions’ offense was not an issue in 2022, it was the defensive side of the ball. Jeff Okudah returned from an ACL injury and played good football. He did not have much assistance on the opposite side of the field. Joey Porter Jr. has the physical tools and traits that you cannot teach. Porter Jr. and Okudah would be a nice tandem to build around in that defensive secondary. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness: The pursuit of creating a more talented defensive unit for DC Aaron Glenn continues. Aidan Hutchinson was a force off the edge as a rookie and I love pairing him with Lukas Van Ness. This gives the Lions two non-stop and relentless edge defenders to collapse the edges around opposing quarterbacks. Lukas Van Ness is raw with his hands, but Hutchinson is a master technician and could be a teacher for his fellow Big Ten rusher. 49. Darnell Washington TE, Georgia: Darnell Washington blocks like a sixth offensive lineman that can run the seam and deep overs off play-action. Have fun, Detroit. 55. Jack Campbell LB, Iowa: Linebacker is a need for this Lions’ defensive unit. Jack Campbell embodies the tough and physical style of play set by head coach Dan Campbell.) (3-2-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anthony-richardson-qb1/
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/
O'Hara (6. DE Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech. But don't forget Skoronski. 18. CB Christian Gonzalez: At 6-2, and with long arms, cornerback Christian Gonzalez is an imposing athlete. His Combine could be special. That's why I picked him at No. 6 in my first mock.) (2-27-23): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-mock-draft-2-0-new-picks-for-lions-at-6-18-wilson-gonzalez-bresee
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/
PFN Pauline (6. CB Joey Porter Jr.: The Lions have to reinforce their leaky defense. With uncertainty at both defensive tackle and cornerback, they have a few intriguing options. Joey Porter Jr. is an impact corner with great size, and his development should benefit from the Lions’ player-centric staff. 18. TE Luke Musgrave: There are a lot of teams who like Luke Musgrave more than Mayer. He’s a downfield weapon at the tight end position. Detroit’s offense can continue building an impressive vertical attack with Musgrave surrounded by Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown.) (2-22-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-qbs-will-levis-and-anthony-richardson-slide-in-first-round/
CBS Podell (6. CB Devon Witherspoon: Witherspoon possesses fantastic field vision, anticipating throws and jumping passing lanes by reading a quarterback's movements. He is extremely agile in coverage downfield with plenty of speed to keep up on vertical routes. Witherspoon plays with an attitude and plenty of energy as a willing, physical tackler, not something that can be said of all cornerbacks. He plays with the kind of attitude a Dan Campbell defender needs to bring to the table. 18. DT Bryan Bresee: Defense, defense, defense in Detroit. Pairing Bresee on the interior with last year's second overall pick Aidan Hutchinson gives the team two building blocks up front to go along with Devon Witherspoon and the improved Jeff Okudah on the back end.) (2-21-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-2023-mock-draft-bears-stay-at-no-1-and-go-defense-raiders-find-derek-carrs-replacement/
SI Kevin Hansen (6. CB Christian Gonzalez. 18. DT Bryan Bresee) (2-17-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-target-gonzalez-bresee-si-mock-draft
NBC Sports edge Dvorchak (6. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: A year after adding Aidan Hutchinson to their defensive line, the Lions are in desperate need of help in their secondary. Devon Witherspoon and Joey Porter are both candidates to go here, but the mild consensus seems to have Gonzalez as the top corner in the draft. 18. Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa: The Lions are likely looking at taking a pass-rusher and a corner with their two first-round picks. Given their investment in Hutchinson, it makes sense for them to hold off on another EDGE until the second time they take the podium.) (2-17-23): https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/mock-drafts/dvorchaks-2023-nfl-mock-draft-10
PFF Renner (6. CB DEVON WITHERSPOON, ILLINOIS: Head coach Dan Campbell is going to take one look at Witherspoon’s tape and demand he be a Detroit Lion. Witherspoon is the feistiest cornerback in the draft, and he got after it in press coverage last season. He allowed only one yard from a press alignment all year. The Lions ran the fourth-most press snaps on defense last season, meaning Witherspoon should feel at home right away. 18. QB ANTHONY RICHARDSON, FLORIDA: The first round couldn’t shake out too much better for Detroit if this is how it goes. They get a defensive cornerstone with their first pick and a special developmental prospect to be the quarterback of the future with their second. Oh, and Richardson is so special athletically that offensive coordinator Ben Johnson can get him involved in certain packages without him being the starter.) (2-13-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-post-super-bowl-2023-nfl-mock-draft-bryce-young-will-levis-cj-stroud
PFN Rolfe (6. DT Jalen Carter: The Detroit Lions are building a really nice roster under head coach Dan Campbell. They had their trouble at times on defense and need to be competitive in that line battle. There are some other needs on the defense, but the value here is not right at those spots, and passing up a talent like Jalen Carter would not be a wise move. From a fantasy perspective, the value of DTs is somewhat limited. However, Carter has the talent level to be a dominant option. In IDP formats, spending a mid-round pick on him could mean you have a guaranteed contributor. In leagues that use the DT position, his value creeps up as high as third-round consideration. 18. CB Kelee Ringo: I really wanted to give the Lions Bijan Robinson here because an offensive combination of Robinson, D’Andre Swift, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams is mouth-watering. However, I ultimately believe the Lions bring back Jamaal Williams and therefore expect their draft focus to be on defense. This is another one of those situations where it depends on which style the Lions like as to which corner they go for. I personally give the slight edge to Kelee Ringo, but if it were Cam Smith or Christian Gonzalez here, I would not be surprised.) (2-7-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-get-aaron-rodgers-hendon-hooker-heads-to-new-orleans/
ESPN Matt Miller (6. CB Devon Witherspoon. 18. DE Lukas Van Ness. 48. TE Sam LaPorta. 55. RB Jahmyr Gibbs) (2-6-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/7/23588022/2023-nfl-mock-draft-matt-miller-helps-lions-on-both-sides-of-the-ball-in-2-round-mock
Draft Network Marino (6. Christian Gonzalez CB, Oregon: After a slow start, the Detroit Lions finally enjoyed a promising season from Jeff Okudah. Pairing him with Christian Gonzalez would provide the Lions with an exciting young pair of corners. Gonzalez offers tremendous size, length, coverage instincts, and ball skills to be a lockdown guy in the NFL. 18. Bijan Robinson RB, Texas: Jamaal Williams is on an expiring contract and D’Andre Swift has been inconsistent. We all know the importance of running the football to the identity of this Detroit Lions team. Adding Bijan Robinson into the equation behind a stellar offensive line, young weapons, and a bright offensive mind in Ben Johnson could see Detroit land among the top-scoring offenses in the NFL next season. Robinson is a rare talent. 49. DT Calijah Kancey: Calijah Kancey won’t check the ideal size boxes but he is a dynamic interior penetrator that is highly disruptive. The Lions have been stockpiling young defensive linemen and Kancey continues to add to that mix. 56. TE Luke Musgrave: As the draft process continues to unfold, Luke Musgrave might not make it this late in the second round. With the departure of T.J. Hockenson, Detroit has a need at tight end and Musgrave offers an impressive blend of size, route-running, hands, and athleticism.) (2-1-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-mock-draft-anderson-wilson-murphy/
Round 1 Pick 1 (34 CB, 16 DT, 11 DE, 8 QB, 2 RB):
18 CB Christian Gonzalez
15 DT Jalen Carter
12 CB Devon Witherspoon
7 DE Tyree Wilson
4 QB Anthony Richardson
4 CB Joey Porter
4 QB Will Levis
2 RB Bijan Robinson
1 DE Lukas Van Ness
1 DE Myles Murphy
1 DE Will Anderson
1 DE Nolan Smith
1 DT Calijah Kancey
Round 1 Pick 2 (17 CB, 14 TE, 12 TE, 10 DT, 6 LB, 5 WR, 3 RB, 2 QB, 1 OG):
9 DE Lukas Van Ness
8 TE Michael Mayer
6 DT Calijah Kancey
5 CB Deonte Banks
4 CB Devon Witherspoon
3 TE Dalton Kincaid
3 RB Bijan Robinson
3 CB Joey Porter
3 WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba
3 LB Trenton Simpson
3 LB Jack Campbell
3 DT Bryan Bresee
2 DE Nolan Smith
2 CB Christian Gonzalez
2 CB Brian Branch
2 TE Darnell Washington
2 WR Quentin Johnston
1 CB Kelee Ringo
1 TE Luke Musgrave
1 CB Julius Brents
1 QB Will Levis
1 QB Anthony Richardson
1 OG O'Cyrus Torrence
1 DT Jalen Carter
1 DE Myles Murphy
Round 2 (Trade) (1 DT):
1 DT Keeanu Benton (CBS Edwards)
Round 2 Pick 1 (9 TE, 5 LB, 4 DT, 2 S, 2 CB, 1 QB, 1 RB, 1 DE):
3 TE Luke Musgrave
2 LB Jack Campbell
2 TE Sam LaPorta
2 TE Darnell Washington
2 DT Keeanu Benton
1 QB Hendon Hooker
1 LB Noah Sewell
1 LB Daiyan Henley
1 TE Michael Mayer
1 TE Tucker Kraft
1 DT Calijah Kancey
1 DT Bryan Bresee
1 DT Mazi Smith
1 RB Jahmyr Gibbs
1 S Sydney Brown
1 S Antonio Johnson
1 CB Mehki Becton
1 CB Tyrique Stevenson
1 DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah
Round 2 Pick 2 (5 TE, 5 S, 4 CB, 4 LB, 2 QB, 1 RB, 1 DE, 1 WR, 1 C):
3 LB Jack Campbell
2 TE Luke Musgrave
2 TE Tucker Kraft
2 CB Tyrique Stevenson
2 QB Hendon Hooker
2 S Antonio Johnson
1 LB Daiyan Henley
1 TE Sam LaPorta
1 CB Garrett Williams
1 CB Cam Mitchell
1 S JL Skinner
1 S Jordan Battle
1 S Sydney Brown
1 RB Roschon Johnson
1 DE Adetomiba Adebawore
1 WR Bryce Ford-Wheaton
1 C Joe Tippman
Round 3 (3 QB, 3 WR, 2 OG, 2 RB, 1 LB, 1 S, 1 CB, 1 DT, 1 DE, 1 OT, 1 TE):
2 RB Zach Charbonnet
2 WR Michael Wilson
1 S Jammie Robinson
1 WR A.T. Perry
1 LB Jack Campbell
1 QB Stetson Bennett
1 QB Tanner McKee
1 QB Aidan O'Connell
1 CB Jaylon Jones
1 DE Zach Harrison
1 G Jarrett Patterson
1 G Chandler Zavala
1 OT Braeden Daniels
1 TE Tucker Kraft
Round 5 (1 TE, 1 DE, 1 WR, 1 LB):
1 Payne Durham
1 DE Mike Morris
1 WR Elijah Higgins
1 LB Dorian Williams
Round 6 Pick 1 (1 CB, 1 DT, 1 TE):
1 CB Keidron Smith
1 DT Nesta Jade Silvera
1 TE Davis Allen
Round 6 Pick 2 (1 WR, 1 LB, 1 CB):
1 CB Christian Braswell.
1 WR Jadon Haselwood
1 LB Mohamoud Diabate
