If the Detroit Lions don't select a cornerback or offensive lineman with the 23rd overall pick of the 2012 NFL Draft, many believe they will add yet another defensive linemen. It would be the third straight year that the Lions pick a defensive lineman in the first round if they do indeed go with one, but you never can have too many pass rushers.

One of the possible candidates for the 23rd overall pick is Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus. If he is on the board when the Lions go on the clock, he could be the best player available. While depth is certainly not an issue at defensive end, it would be another case of the Lions strengthening a strength much like they did at defensive tackle last year.

On Monday, Mercilus came to town for a pre-draft visit with the Lions, according to Dave Birkett. Mercilus is the third defensive end that has already visited the Lions or is planning to visit them, showing that while there may not be a need at the position, they are doing their due diligence on DEs.

For a look at all of the players the Lions have hosted or will host for pre-draft visits, click here.

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