Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN is one of the most prominent and venerable voices in the NFL Draft media. He produced his ideal mock draft for the first three rounds.
The Detroit (or as Mel pronounces it, DEEE-trut) Lions pulled an interesting haul in Kiper’s fantasy.
Kiper went with Mississippi State EDGE Montez Sweat at No. 8. That’s not a surprising pick; Sweat is a productive pass rusher with elite athletic upside. But Kiper chose Sweat even with Ed Oliver, T.J. Hockenson and D.K. Metcalf, among others, all still on the board.
Why?
Detroit could be the team to take the first defensive back in the class, but it’s a little too high on my board. If Sweat is still here, he would be a great addition on the other side of free-agent signing Trey Flowers, who got $56 million guaranteed from the Lions. Sweat’s 4.41 40 at the combine was the fastest by any prospect at least 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds since 2006, but he also produced in college, putting up 22 sacks over the past two seasons.
In the second round, Kiper hits that defensive back with Michigan State CB Justin Layne. It’s worth noting Kiper doesn’t select any cornerbacks until Temple’s Rock Ya-Sin at No. 24 overall.
West Virginia offensive lineman Yodny Cajuste comes to Detroit in the third round. While he’s currently injured, Cajuste projects as a future starter at tackle and also has the potential to kick inside to right guard.
Kiper gave himself an A-grade for his picks. What do you think?
