Mock Draft Watch: Experts Divided on IOL vs. Edge for Lions

Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Ohio State
Holmes has a history of selecting strong athletes from prestigious programs, especially in the trenches. Conerly could immediately compete for a starting right guard position and, over time, shift to left tackle.

Charles Davis, NFL.com: James Pearce, Edge, Tennessee
With an emphasis on edge rushers, Pearce stands out due to his impressive athleticism shown at the NFL Scouting Combine. His ability to rush the quarterback from Day 1 makes him a prime candidate for the Lions.

Bucky Brooks, NFL.com: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State
Jackson could step in immediately as a starter, bringing a tough and physical attitude to the Lions’ offensive line. Holmes values the trenches, and Jackson’s physicality would fit the team’s approach perfectly.

Matt Miller, ESPN: Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota State
Zabel’s performance at the Senior Bowl solidified his status as a highly valuable prospect. His experience across multiple positions on the offensive line makes him an ideal fit for Detroit, especially as a starter at guard.

Mike Tannenbaum, ESPN: Shemar Stewart, DT, Texas A&M
With Detroit looking to strengthen its defensive line, Stewart could be a key addition. His ability to rush the passer and contribute to the defense aligns with the Lions’ needs following last season’s injury troubles.

Seth Quinn, Newsweek: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
Williams remains a top contender in several mock drafts due to his blend of strength and size, making him a potential difference-maker alongside Aidan Hutchinson on the Lions’ defensive line.

Nate Tice & Charles McDonald, Yahoo Sports: Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas
Banks is seen as a versatile lineman who could compete for a starting job at right guard, with the potential to move to left tackle later in his career. Given Detroit’s commitment to elite line play, this makes sense as a pick.

Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State
With a focus on the offensive line, Jackson could provide immediate help at guard, filling a need following the loss of Kevin Zeitler. His experience as both a guard and tackle gives the Lions flexibility.

Carmen Vitali, FOX Sports: Landon Jackson, Edge, Arkansas
Landon Jackson, who added significant muscle in college, could form a dynamic pairing with Hutchinson. If he can translate his impressive strength into on-field performance, he could be a force for the Lions.

Josh Liskiewitz, Pro Football Focus: Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota State
Zabel’s impressive versatility across the line could make him an immediate starter for Detroit, offering depth at multiple positions on the offensive line and solidifying the team’s line play.

Dalton Wasserman, Pro Football Focus: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
With a strong pass-rush grade and a history of high pressure numbers, Pearce could bring the boost Detroit’s defensive line needs to complement Hutchinson.

Kyle Crabbs, 33rd Team: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
Detroit values a “nasty” style of play, and Booker could be an ideal fit as a physical upgrade at guard, improving the Lions’ interior offensive line.

Ian Valentino, 33rd Team: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
Valentino views Pearce as an elite pass rusher despite some concerns about his build. His potential as a speedy, pro-ready edge rusher makes him a solid option for Detroit’s defense.