With the NFL Draft less than a month away, excitement is building around the Detroit Lions.
Since taking over as general manager in 2021, Brad Holmes has established a good reputation for his draft abilities. In April, he’ll have another chance to demonstrate his skills.
The Lions’ most pressing needs are on defense, but the organization might benefit from adding more offensive punch.
Here’s a look at what the Lions could do in our latest 7-round mock draft.
Round 1, pick 29.
Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State.
The Lions have an All-Pro slot receiver in Amon-Ra St. Brown, but who he will play with in 2024 remains to be seen. Josh Reynolds and Donovan Peoples-Jones are scheduled to become free agents, while Jameson Williams has yet to play a full season.
There is hope that Williams can break out in his third season, but the squad lacks a real big-bodied wide receiver who can win with consistent catches. That might change after Coleman is drafted.
The former Michigan State Spartan’s excellent year at Florida State boosted his stock significantly. He shown his versatility, making him an ideal fit for Ben Johnson’s attack.
Round 2: Pick 61.
Bralen Trice, Edge, Washington
Trice may not have exceptional measurables, but his motor indicates that he will be a solid player in the NFL. With 18 career sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss, he projects as a difference maker in the pros.
Trice has shown a tremendous ability to bend around the edge and get to the quarterback, but he is also dangerous in the run game. The Lions require a running partner for Aidan Hutchinson, and Trice possesses many of the skills the Lions seek on tape.
Round 3, Pick 73.
Ruke Orhorhoro (DL, Clemson)
The Lions lacked consistent depth on the defensive interior, with several players failing to capitalize on opportunities to demonstrate their abilities. As a result, the organization may profit from signing another talented player up front.
One of the better alternatives is Orhorhoro, who has a wealth of experience. Over five seasons, he recorded 25.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. His flexibility as a pass-rusher and run-stuffer positions him well alongside Alim McNeill.
Round 3: Pick 92
Blake Corum, RB, Michigan.
David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are returning as the Lions’ two most reliable running backs. However, the depth beyond them is questionable, with Craig Reynolds currently ranked third on the depth chart.
With the organization’s objective to increase competition at all positions, investing in Corum could be a good option. Despite his diminutive stature, he is a powerful runner who has fully healed from a knee injury sustained late in 2022.
The Michigan product had wanted to contribute more in the passing game, as he possesses the athleticism to be a threat there. He is also a great fit for the Lions culture.
Round 5: Pick 163
James Williams, S. Miami (FL)
On Day Three, the Lions have the opportunity to address positions where depth is required. The team does, however, have two solid safeties under contract: Kerby Joseph and Ifeatu Melifonwu.
With Ceedy Duce’s future with the organization unknown, Detroit may invest in a youthful depth alternative. Williams is an eager tackler of good size who has the potential to become a quality box safety.
Round 6: Pick 207
Andrew Coker, OT, TCU.
With Taylor Decker entering his contract year, the Lions might benefit from adding additional quality depth at offensive tackle. Coker is a project offensive tackle who is 6-foot-6.
He concluded the 2023 season with a 73.3 pass-blocking grade and is athletic enough to remain in front of rushers. He’d need to improve, but there’s a lot to appreciate about the possibilities.
Round 7: Pick 247
Jaden Crumedy (DL, Mississippi State)
Crumedy, like Brodric Martin last season, is a powerful defensive lineman with room for improvement. At 6-foot-5 and 305 pounds, he is well-built for the position and was strong against the run for the Bulldogs.
The Lions would be prudent to strengthen the group at this position, given it is entirely inexperienced outside of Alim McNeill. He may be a project that grows into a useful piece for rotation.
