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Last week, the first batch of mock drafts from some of the big wigs emerged. It seemed as though all of the national pundits were in agreement with what the biggest position of need is for the Lions: Defensive end.
This week, both CBS and Sports Illustrated have released updated versions of their mock drafts.
The Picks
Sports Illustrated
Chris Burke of Sports Illustrated released the fifth iteration of his mock draft and introduced a name that hasn’t been linked to Detroit.
Cam Robinson, an offensive tackle from Alabama, was the pick from Burke to the Lions at No. 21. On this week’s PODcast, we talked a little bit about the potential of the entire right side of the offensive line testing the waters in free agency, and Burke echoed those sentiments with his explanation for the pick:
The obvious: The Lions need help on defense, at linebacker, end, cornerback and possibly tackle. But with starting right tackle (and former first-rounder) Riley Reiff about to become a free agent, there’s a hole at a key O-line spot, too. GM Bob Quinn might have his pick of OTs at this spot. Robinson was a left tackle for Alabama, but his powerful presence would translate well to the right side; Taylor Decker could maintain his LT spot.
Burke is spot on with his assessment. Potentially, Reiff’s departure would create a void at right tackle and is something to monitor in the coming months. General manager Bob Quinn could address this situation prior to the draft through free agency, possibly even a trade, but however he does decide to deal with it, it would certainly influence his decision at 21.
CBS
A familiar name, Tim Williams—an edge rusher from Alabama—was mocked to the Lions in the first round by CBS’ Dane Brugler:
Detroit needs to address the issues at cornerback, but adding an impact rusher like Williams would help everyone on the defense.
A couple weeks ago, in his first mock draft, Mel Kiper Jr. chose Williams as a fit for the Lions as well. Whether or not Williams skill set meshes with what Detroit needs is another discussion, but it’s interesting nonetheless to see his name linked to the Lions yet again.
Taco Charlton, another edge defender and popular name that’s been mocked to the Lions at No. 21, was selected after Detroit’s selection in both Burke (No. 32 to the presumed Super Bowl Champion Patriots) and Brugler’s (No. 23 to the Giants) mock drafts.