Free agency tends to shake up mock drafts as teams address roster needs with veteran signings. While it’s understandable to address certain gaps, teams with strong draft strategies focus more on selecting the best talent available rather than solely filling immediate needs. Here’s a summary of what various mock drafts suggest the Detroit Lions will do with their No. 28 pick following the first wave of free agency:
Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
Why: Williams has a lot of potential, even though his production hasn’t quite matched his athletic ability. There’s a lot of upside for a team willing to develop him.
Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA Today: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Why: With Hutchinson returning, the Lions’ defensive line should get a boost, though concerns remain after a key defensive tackle suffered a torn ACL. Grant is still refining his pass-rush skills but has the physical traits to be a force.
Steve Serby, New York Post: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Why: A 6-foot-3, 340-pound presence alongside Hutchinson would shore up the run defense, especially with McNeill’s recovery timeline uncertain after his ACL injury.
Seth Quinn, Newsweek: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
Why: The Lions need to add youthful talent to their defensive line, and Green’s impressive rise in the draft process makes him a solid first-round pick with great burst, power, and motor.
John Kosko, Pro Football Focus: Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M
Why: The Lions need to find another edge rusher opposite Hutchinson after a season marred by injuries. Scourton might not have great stats, but his physicality and 17.1% win rate in 2024 showcase his potential.
Joel Klatt, FOX Sports: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
Why: The Lions may not have many glaring needs, but the importance of a strong pass rush is undeniable. Pearce could significantly boost the defense, helping Hutchinson on the other side.
Michael Renner, CBS Sports: Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
Why: Nolen is a powerful presence in the run game and would provide a much-needed boost to an already formidable defensive line when healthy.
Kyle Stackpole, CBS Sports: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Why: Though Grant couldn’t participate in the combine due to a hamstring issue, his size, athleticism, and room to grow make him an intriguing pick.
Josh Edwards, CBS Sports: Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College
Why: With Smith gone and Hutchinson recovering from an ACL tear, adding another edge rusher to deepen the defense is a priority for the Lions.
Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Why: Despite a quieter 2024 season, Burden remains a highly talented receiver with tons of upside.
Garrett Podell, CBS Sports: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
Why: The Lions were hit hard by defensive line injuries in 2024, and Pearce’s impressive college career, including leading the SEC in tackles for loss and pressures, makes him a great addition.
Tom Fornelli, CBS Sports: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
Why: After initially projecting Jack Sawyer, Green’s higher ceiling and better value late in the first round make him an ideal pick for a Lions team in need of another pass rusher.
Eric Fronton, NBC Sports: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
Why: The Lions bolster their defensive line by selecting Harmon, a powerful interior defensive lineman who can help support Hutchinson.
Yahoo Sports Staff: Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas
Why: With few roster needs, the Lions could add an offensive lineman. Banks would challenge for a starting role at right guard and potentially shift to left tackle in the future.
Steven Cheah, Barstool Sports: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
Why: The absence of Hutchinson last season highlighted the Lions’ weakness in the pass rush. Green, with his 17-sack season, would provide a much-needed boost.
Kyle Crabbs, 33rd Team: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
Why: Booker would strengthen the Lions’ offensive line and add power to the middle, helping the team get back to its offensive punch.
James Foster, 33rd Team: Bradyn Swinson, Edge, LSU
Why: The Lions need a solid edge rusher to complement Hutchinson, and Swinson, with his versatile pass-rushing abilities, would be a great fit.
