The week between the NFL combine and the onset of the free agent signing period is a weird limbo status. We have a better idea of the draft ranges for players, but each team’s top needs remain very much up in the air until the first couple of waves of free agency crash over us in the next 10 days.
With that in mind, here’s the latest stab at what the Lions might do with their draft picks in just seven weeks.
First round: Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky
Allen is an obvious choice if he’s still on the board. Here’s how that can happen:
- Two QBs (Haskins and Murray)
- Two DTs (Q. Williams and Oliver)
- Nick Bosa
- D.K. Metcalf
- One OT (Cody Ford or Jonah Williams)
You will have no problem finding multiple mock drafts where all of those players listed are projected as top-five picks, let alone before the Lions pick at No. 8.
Second round: Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
Yes, this pick remains the same as the last version. It will remain that way until I’m otherwise convinced he’s not perfect for the Lions offensive needs at TE. Smith in the 2nd is a much better value than Hockenson in the first, even if the Crimson Tide product doesn’t block close to that level.
Third round: David Long, CB, Michigan
It might be optimistic to have Long available in the third round after he shredded the combine with his elite quickness and flexibility. Don’t judge his relative lack of statistics from Michigan; teams seldom threw his direction because he was seldom not in proper position in coverage.
Fourth round: Mecole Hardman, WR, Georgia
A converted cornerback whose game has progressed nicely, Hardman is both quick and fast in the slot. His 4.33 40-yard dash shows he can bring the speed. Hardman gets bonus points for being a ferocious blocker for his size and also being an elite return man.
Fifth round: Darnell Savage, S, Maryland
Savage is a coverage safety with serious wheels, blazing a 4.36 40-yard dash who can also capably move up and cover the slot. His lack of size (5-11, 198 pounds) might make him a better fit in that slot CB role. The Lions have a need there and Savage is an exceptional athlete for his size.
Sixth round: Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
McCoy’s athleticism in Indy was a pleasant surprise. For a player who showed some quickness and mobility questions in his three years starting for Texas A&M, his agility and speed scores hinted he can do more. McCoy proved in the SEC he can handle power.
Sixth round: Kahale Warring, TE, San Diego State
His game film for the Aztecs demonstrates solid (but inconsistent) hands and pretty solid route running for a guy who grew up a water polo standout. He’s an inline blocking option who can chip and release, with higher athletic upside than the typical blocking TE.
Seventh round: Trayveon Williams, RB, Texas A&M
Williams added bulk for his final year with the Aggies but didn’t lose any burst. He’s a versatile all-around back who might be the best pound-for-pound pass blocking RB in this draft.
Seventh round: Cody Thompson, WR, Toledo
Smart, tough, quicker-than-fast slot receiver from the MAC who is a converted QB and can thrive on special teams. Sound like someone Bob Quinn might remember from his Patriots days? Thompson fits that bill to a ‘T’.
