The latest mock draft from brother site Draft Wire extends out four rounds. The projected selections from editor Luke Easterling offer some interesting perspective on how the team’s needs and desires are viewed.
In the first round, LSU cornerback Greedy Williams gets the nod at No. 8 overall. The explanation reveals an unusually grim view of the Lions defense,
There are needs at every level for this defense, but finding a stud corner to line up opposite Darius Slay should be high on the list. While Williams is still learning how to maximize his physical skills, he has the height, length and athleticism to be a star at the next level.
The “learning how to maximize his physical skills” is a kind euphemism for “doesn’t like to tackle” and could be a major sticking point for the Lions, but his playmaking skills at cornerback are indeed high-end.
Alabama tight end Irv Smith comes to Detroit in the second round, adding a dynamic receiving weapon with sound blocking. Smith would instantly leap to the top of the Lions’ sad TE depth chart.
Smith’s Crimson Tide teammate Christian Miller is the third round projection. An undersized (listed at 240 pounds) EDGE, Miller doesn’t appear to be a great schematic fit, though his official measurements happen later this week at the combine.
The mock wraps with Duke LB Joe Giles-Harris, a sure tackler who once turned in an outstanding game at Ford Field in the Quicklane Bowl.
