MOCk DRAFT WATCH:Edge rusher the recognize pick following free agent, William’s, Georgia, Kennet Grant,DT Michigan, Mike Green, Marshall

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.