Category: Mock Drafts

2020 NFL mock draft: Post-combine projections with trades

Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling updates his first-round projections for the 2020 NFL draft, with a handful of big trades

The 2020 NFL Scouting Combine is officially in the books, and we’re already seeing draft stock moving in opposite directions for a long list of this year’s prospects.

As teams and prospects alike prepare for pro day workouts and the homestretch of this year’s predraft process, here’s an updated look at how the first round of the 2020 NFL draft could shake out, with a handful of trades that could provide a little chaos along the way.

*denotes projected trade

1. Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow | QB | LSU

Burrow’s reticence in recent weeks appears to be much more about him than the Bengals, as he made clear in multiple interviews at the combine. He doesn’t want to just assume he’ll be the top pick, but if he is, it looks like he’ll have no problems putting on tiger stripes. The Bengals desperately need a quarterback who can change their fortunes, and Burrow absolutely has what it takes to make it happen.

2. Washington Redskins

Chase Young | EDGE | Ohio State

Sure, there’s plenty of talk about Washington pulling a Kyler Murray here and taking Tua Tagovailoa, despite having taken Dwayne Haskins in the first round last year. I’m not buying it just yet, especially with a rare pass rusher like Young available. If Washington isn’t bowled over by a trade offer, standing pat and taking the best player in the entire draft is anything but a consolation prize.

3. Miami Dolphins (from DET)*

Tua Tagovailoa | QB | Alabama

Of all the things I think about this draft, I’m most certain about the Lions wanting to trade out of this pick. They can move down a couple of spots, get an extra pick or two, and still probably end up with the guy they would have originally taken here anyway. The Dolphins need to make sure they get the quarterback they want, and while there are rumors that’s Oregon’s Justin Herbert instead, I still think Tua is the better option if he’s fully healthy.

4. New York Giants

Mekhi Becton | OT | Louisville

Clemson defensive weapon Isaiah Simmons is tempting here, but I just don’t see Giants GM Dave Gettleman opting for a new-age hybrid defender over a trench player, particularly with the offensive tackles that are available to him this year. Gettleman could take any of the top four tackles here and they’d all be worthy, but I’m betting on the biggest one, with the most upside, and that’s Becton.

5. Detroit Lions (from MIA)*

Jeff Okudah | CB | Ohio State

As I said earlier, this is the ideal scenario for the Lions, who still get the guy they probably would have taken at No. 3 overall. No matter what happens with Darius Slay, Okudah is the best blend of need and value here, as easily the top corner in this year’s class. He has all the physical and mental tools to be an immediate impact player for a defense that desperately needs more of them.

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Touchdown Wire’s pre-combine mock draft: Chase Young, Jerry Jeudy are pivot points

In advance of the NFL scouting combine, Touchdown Wire’s Doug Farrar breaks down how the first round might transpire if it were held today.

Everybody does mock drafts, most everybody does more than one, and every mock draft is done for different reasons. To get clicks? Well, duh. That would be reason No. 1, dear reader. Let’s not be arch about this. That aside, what we’re trying to do when we drill down into different scenarios with all these different mocks is to get a sense of where things stand at the moment.

Where things stand at this moment is: The scouting combine is next week. Free agency doesn’t start until mid-March. Even the unofficial official tampering period is still weeks away. So, with this mock, let’s do away with the potential trades that will be incessantly discussed by the NFL’s power brokers at the Indianapolis Steak ‘n Shake at 3:30 a.m. Let’s instead look at where each team might go with their picks if the draft started now, without the benefit of combine drills, player interviews, pro days and knowing which roster holes will be filled in free agency. When the combine is done, it’ll provide an interesting reference point as we move forward with our future mocks.

Picks 1-8 | 9-16 | 17-24 | 25-32

1. Cincinnati Bengals (2-14): Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

(Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

One of the most hilarious things about the news lull between the Super Bowl and the scouting combine is the need to make a whole lot out of very little. Thus, we have Joe Burrow refusing to pledge absolute fealty to the Bengals, and What It All Means. (Here’s a good explainer of what it actually means). None of it really matters. The Bengals need to get themselves out of the quarterback purgatory they’ve been in with Andy Dalton since 2011, and Burrow brings a combination of arm talent, ability to throw on the move, and poise under pressure that reminds me of pre-injury Sam Bradford. It’s stuff you can improve upon, but you can’t really teach. Throw away the one-year wonder stuff, and bail on the concerns about his arm strength. Burrow is the best player in this draft class, and as such, should be the overwhelming first pick. Which he will be.

2. Washington Redskins (3-13): Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State

(Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports)

Wait, what? No Chase Young? Well, here’s what we know. The Redskins selected Mississippi State edge-rusher Montez Sweat with the 26th pick in the 2019 draft. Sweat could easily hit the second-year performance bump that edge defenders often see. Washington also has Ryan Kerrigan under contract through 2020 and the underrated Matt Ioannidis through 2022. It’s not as if new head coach Ron Rivera and new defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio wouldn’t benefit from Chase Young on their defensive line, but there’s also the matter of the secondary to consider. Washington just released cornerback Josh Norman in a cost-cutting and performance-based move. Outside of Quinton Dunbar, there’s nobody at the position who inspires much confidence at all, and the Redskins appear to be playing hardball with Dunbar. Okudah would solve some of the cornerback problem quickly; the ongoing franchise dysfunction is another matter entirely.

3. Detroit Lions (3-12-1): Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State

(Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

So, if the Redskins turn the 2020 draft upside down by not taking Chase Young, Matt Patricia’s Lions get an unrivaled edge-rusher, which is one of many things Detroit’s defense needs. Trey Flowers signed a five-year, $90 million contract with $56 million in guarantees last offseason and put up 61 total pressures despite dealing with injuries. Flowers and linebacker Devon Kennard combined for 14 sacks in 2019; everyone else in Detroit’s defense also combined for 14. Young is a game-wrecker at the level of the Bosa brothers — and he’ll make every part of Detroit’s defense better by that standard alone.

4. New York Giants (4-12): Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

(AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)

Two sure things about Giants general manager Dave Gettleman: He loves him some “Hog Mollies,” and he doesn’t give a rat’s posterior what anybody thinks about his picks. So, were Gettleman to take Becton, a 6-foot-7, 369-pound mauler and eraser in the run game with high potential for his frame in his pass sets, don’t be surprised. Becton might not be from the “Build Your Ideal Left Tackle” factory in the modern NFL, but as Gettleman has made clear on multiple occasions, he’s not scouting and signing for the modern NFL, anyway.

5. Miami Dolphins (5-11): Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

(Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports)

All signs are positive regarding Tagovailoa’s fractured hip, and thus his NFL future, which leaves us with his NFL potential. Tagovailoa doesn’t have the biggest arm in this draft class, but he checks most of the other boxes when you look at the needs for the new generation of dual-threat NFL quarterbacks who are redefining the position. While he’s more than adept in a shotgun/pistol offense with lots of run-pass options, he also shows the potential to shine under center with multiple reads at his disposal, both in and out of the pocket. Yes, he was surrounded with insane talent at Alabama, but 87 touchdowns to 11 interceptions and a 10.9 yards-per-attempt average over three seasons doesn’t just happen. Nick Saban has compared Tagovailoa to Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers in the abstract; that doesn’t just happen, either.

6. Los Angeles Chargers (5-11): Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

(Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)

Were the Chargers to take Herbert here as they transition to the post-Philip Rivers era, it would be a great example of the importance of the quarterback position in regard to draft capital. Herbert isn’t the sixth-best player in this class; not even close. But he’s a big guy who can throw from the pocket; he has a smooth, gliding running style for his size, and there are enough shot plays on tape to make offensive coordinators and quarterback coaches set aside the rushed throws, general inaccuracies, and the fact that his long, lanky frame can lead to a deliberate release of the ball when quickness and decisiveness should be the order of the day.

7. Carolina Panthers (5-11): Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

(Adam Hagy-USA TODAY Sports)

The Panthers are about to undergo a major rebuild with new head coach Matt Rhule, and if there’s one thing Rhule learned in his time as a college head coach — especially at Baylor over the past three seasons — it’s that you want as many athletes as possible on defense, no matter the situation. With Thomas Davis off to the Chargers last season and Luke Kuechly recently retired, the Panthers’ longtime linebacker paradigm could easily change. Shaq Thompson has become an athletic force as a new-school, built-like-a-safety linebacker, and Simmons fits a similar suit. At 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, this is not a traditional run-fit thumper; per Pro Football Focus, Simmons played over 100 snaps on the defensive line and at free safety, and over 200 snaps in the box and in the slot. As long as his NFL team doesn’t try to turn him into Mike Singletary, Simmons has the potential to be a lockdown modern defender at the highest level.

8. Arizona Cardinals (5-10-1): Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

(Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

Kyler Murray already is stumping for the Cardinals to bring receiver CeeDee Lamb, his former Oklahoma teammate, to the Valley of the Sun. And it makes sense for a couple of reasons: Lamb is an outstanding playmaker, and it makes sense to keep your quarterback happy with targets he trusts. But methinks Murray, who absorbed a league-leading 48 sacks in his rookie campaign, will also be pleased if he isn’t forced to run for his life all the time. Re-signing left tackle D.J. Humphries was a step in the right direction, and putting Wills on the right side would cement Arizona’s tackle tandem as more than solid. The 6-foot-5, 320-pound Wills brings a nasty disposition to his run-blocking, and he’s technically proficient enough to help in a right-handed offense where the quarterback constantly expands the pocket.

Picks 1-8 | 9-16 | 17-24 | 25-32

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Detroit Lions All-Ohio State University mock draft

With mock drafts coming in left and right, check out this one where we have the Detroit Lions selecting only Ohio State University players

Mock drafts are everywhere right now, and the majority of them have the Detroit Lions taking either Jeffery Okudah, Chase Young, Derrick Brown, or Isaiah Simmons with their first pick.

After a while, the mundanity can set in seeing the same few players getting slated to the Lions, so we at Lions Wire decided to add a twist to traditional mock drafts by introducing a series of mock drafts that select prospects exclusively from one school.

We kicked off things off and visited the University of Michigan. Now we will take things a little south and stop at Ohio State University for our next visit.

Round 1/2

I know I am cheating a little combining the first and second, but at this point, Okudah and Young have been mocked several times to the Lions, as mentioned. They have been talked about so extensively we know what kind of players the Lions will get if they drafted them in the first round.

There are two prospects the Lions could be looking at with their second-round pick, and depending on whom they select in the first could dictate whom they tag as their second-round pick, either cornerback Damon Arnette or running back J.K. Dobbins.

Arnette maybe getting overshadowed by his teammate, Okduah, through the draft process, but Arnette offers quite a package for what may consider a consolidation prize of Ohio State cornerbacks. Arnette has the versatility to play in multiple techniques because of his physicality in press coverage and his patience in off-press coverage. The Lions value cornerbacks who have strong tackling ability, as well as, the ability can contribute in run support, and he is one of the better cornerbacks in this draft who can provide those types of attributes.

Dobbins is your definition of a bell-cow running back who has enjoyed massive success while at Ohio State. Over three seasons, he has amassed over 4,400 yards while also tallying 545 receiving yards, showing his versatility as a three-down back. His toughness, elite patience, and vision were always on display breaking 73 tackles, en route to 21 touchdowns. Because of his high usage, most teams are going to be hesitant to take him with a high draft pick leading to possible draft fall even though his talent is first-round worthy.

It should speak to how strong this Ohio State draft class when the Lions have a plethora of options at their disposal this early in the draft. Now, if the Lions take Okduah in the first, they will probably pass on Arnette and go with Dobbins with their second pick. If the Lions select Young, that is where things may get exciting either go with Arnette to fill CB2 or go with Dobbins and create a potent one-two punch with Kerryon Johnson.

For this exercise, I have the Lions selecting Young and go with Arnette in the second to shore up the vacant spot opposite of Darius Slay.

Round 3

The third round has a couple of prospects that may intrigue the Lions on each side of the ball, linebacker Malik Harrison and wide receiver K.J. Hill.

Harrison’s game is much like Jarrad Davis in most aspects, so take that with what you will. Harrison possesses the intelligence to read offenses allowing him to use his physicality and high motor to attack the play, which accounted for his 16.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks this past season. He always seems to be making the play or at least close to the action. He does lack flexibility and coverage skills, which will hinder his every-down availability, and in turn, could hurt his draft stock.

The Lions could use Harrison like they use Davis, allowing him to move around the defense, shoot gaps, blitz the quarterback, or drop into coverage. By using both Harrison and Davis, the Lions could keep offenses guessing, bringing different looks as to who is doing what on the play.

K.J. Hill has caught the eyes of Lions fans after an impressive Senior Bowl, allowing him to showcase his ability as a slot receiver, an area the Lions might be looking to improve with Danny Amendola hitting free agency. Not only has he caught the eyes of the Lions, but other teams as well leading to heightened draft stock. Hill is one of the more impressive route runners in this draft class. With his elusiveness, YAC ability, and consistent production, he would fit right in with the Lions.

Because Hill’s draft stock rising, and the lack of quality linebackers in this draft, the Lions may only get one of these two prospects. The majority of fans would have no hesitation taking Hill at this point, but I am going to go against the grain and take Harrison with the third-round pick. Harrison’s versatility will allow the Lions to bring different looks to this defense with Davis and could cause offenses fits, and that could be fun to watch.

Round 4

With the potential departure of hometown staple Graham Glasgow, along with Kenny Wiggins and Oday Aboushi hitting free agency, the Lions have a strong need for an interior offensive lineman. Usually, this late in the draft, you probably will not find a player who could start early on, but guard Jonah Jackon does not fall in that norm.

Jackson was an integral part of an Ohio State’s interior offensive line, which some might have considered one of the best in college football, helping pave the way for Dobbins’ monster season. Jackson enjoyed a career resurgence as a graduate transfer from Rutgers to Ohio State this past season, and he was able to take full advantage of the opportunity and helped put his name on the map as one of better interior offensive lineman in this draft.

Jackson was already known to have strong pass protection abilities before he left Rutgers. However, at Ohio State, he was able to enhance his game further by becoming a dominant run blocker as well. You probably will not find a more athletic guard in this draft, with the way he can move players, layout pancake blocks, and agile enough to get the second level. He is a high character, athletic player who can immediately take hold of the vacant guard spot and bring a strong element next to Frank Ragnow.

Round 5

The Lions interior defensive line is in flux right now with A’Shawn Robinson and Mike Daniels hitting free agency, and the possible retirement of Damon Harrison, the Lions would be wise to draft a player(s) to plug up those gaps. Likely for them, they could select Davon Hamilton in the fifth round and could easily slide in with what the Lions look for from their defensive linemen.

Hamilton is like Da’Sahwn Hand, a versatile player who has the ability and efficiency to play from 0-tech to 5-tech. With his high intelligence, ever going motor, stable vision, and play strength, he can cause chaos to the offense. He also has fantastic gap discipline and run-stuffing ability, both areas the Lions covet.

He may not have the numbers some teams may look for, 66 career tackles and only one season as a starter, but look whom he was playing with — the Bosa brothers, Dre’Mont Jones, and Chase Young — and there are only so many snaps that can around leading to more a rotational role for Hamilton. The Lions will be getting a reliable, lengthy, disruptive versatile lineman on Day 3 of the draft who will fit well with the Lions multiple defensive schemes.

Round 5 (2nd selection)

The Lions have invested a ton in the safety position the last two years with the selections of Tracy Walker and Will Harris, both in the third round. However, the way the Lions run their defense with multiple safeties sets, expect them to invest more into that spot. With their second fifth-round pick, there is a Buckeye safety ripe for the picking that can find a role in this defense, Jordan Fuller.

When the Buckeyes implemented a new defensive scheme, Fuller switched from a hybrid role to exclusively single high safety. For all intents and purposes, he was solid in that role. The Buckeyes were awarded for one of the better coverage safeties in this draft and recorded six combined interceptions and pass breakups, showing he has the ball skills to man the deep part of the field. Even though his tackling leaves something to be desired, it is something that can easily be coached and should not be the nail in the coffin of his draft status.

With Miles Killebrew hitting free agency, Fuller could fill in the spot on defense and special teams. A versatile player who could line up almost anywhere in the deep areas of the field and solid special teams player is right up the Lions’ alley. On top of it, he is a two-time captain and high character individual, something the Lions value in their players. Fuller checks all the right boxes and could be a diamond of the rough this late in the draft for Detroit.

Round 6

Even though the Lions could not land K.J. Hill earlier in the draft, there is another Buckeye receiver who could fit the bill this late in the draft, Binjimen Victor. Victor processes the frame — 6-3, and 196 pounds measured at the East-West Shrine game — necessary to handle the daily grind of the NFL.

Between his excellent athleticism, length, separation ability, and large catch radius, he can consistently win any contested-catch, making him a robust vertical threat, an area the Lions often used this past season. He may not be the fastest player on the field but does have strong hands in not only high point catches, but also run blocking, which is an area the Lions love in their receivers.

He may have left people asking more from him, but considering whom he played behind, Hill, Parris Campbell, and Terry McLaurin there are only so many targets to go around. He was able to put substantial numbers though recording 1,340 yards and 18 touchdowns in his Buckeye career, with six of those touchdowns coming this past year. What teams are going to get from Victor is a receiver with an outstanding catch radius, strong hands, and physical length and body, and smooth route running, who could plug in in mostly any receiver spot and be a major red-zone threat.

With a high potential need for receivers for the Lions, Victor could be worth a late flyer and could develop into a productive receiver just like his old teammate McLaurin.

Summary

Here is how the draft would shape up for the Lions:

1st- Chase Young

2nd- Damon Arnette

3rd- Malik Harrison

4th- Jonah Jackson

5th- Davon Hamilton

5th- Jordan Fuller

6th- Binjimen Victor

 

This draft could go several ways, which says a great deal to the quality of talent Ohio State regularly shores out yearly and is a credit to former head coach Urban Meyer recruited. Young will immediately transform the defense; Arnette provides a quality CB2. Harrison brings the traits the Lions look for in their linebackers, Hamilton and Jackson shore up the holes on their respective lines, Fuller is a hybrid player who can line up anywhere deep, and Victor can play mostly any receiver spot. All of them are high quality, intelligent characters who are ready to learn, features the Lions highly desire in their players. Do not be surprised if the Lions pull the trigger on any of the listed players.

Mel Kiper Jr. projects Tua Tagovailoa to Lions in his latest mock draft

The veteran ESPN draftnik has some interesting projections in his second mock draft

We all knew it was coming, and now the day has officially arrived. A major draft media pundit has projected the Detroit Lions to select Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with the No. 3 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN cracked the seal, one that has been broken by less-renowned draftniks but hadn’t infiltrated the mass media just yet. Now it’s here.

Kiper explains his rationale for the Lions doubling up at the QB position. He acknowledges trading Matthew Stafford is basically impossible but still projects the team to tab Tagovailoa with their first top-3 pick since 2010.

The Lions say they’re not shopping quarterback Matthew Stafford, but there is some buzz that they like Tagovailoa, who might not work out for teams before April’s draft because of his hip injury. Is that just a smoke screen?

Some other picks of note:

  • Ohio State DE Chase Young is off the board at No. 2 to Washington.
  • Ohio State CB Jeff Okudah, a frequent Lions projection, goes to the Giants at No. 4.
  • Clemson LB Isaiah Simmons winds up with the Jaguars at No. 9 overall.
  • Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb is the first WR, at No. 11 to the Jets. Alabama’s Jerry Jeudy goes one spot later to the Raiders.

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2020 NFL mock draft: Updated 4-round projections

Draft Wire editor Luke Easterling updates his four-round projections for the 2020 NFL draft

The 2019 NFL season is officially over, and with the Senior Bowl also in the books, the next stop on the road to the 2020 NFL draft is the scouting combine later this month.

As teams and prospects alike prepare for the biggest, strangest job interview in sports, here’s an updated look at how the first four rounds of this year’s draft could shake out:

1. Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow | QB | LSU

This has seemed like a foregone conclusion for so long, that we’re starting to get to the point in the process where rumors and speculation start to swirl to the contrary. Don’t buy into the boredom; Burrow has always been the guy for the Bengals, and that’s not going to change between now and draft day.

2. Washington Redskins

Chase Young | EDGE | Ohio State

This is an absolute no-brainer for Washington, unless they’re bowled over by a trade offer from another team. They have bigger needs at other positions, but there’s no way they should pass up a rare talent like Young at such a premium spot. He’s the best overall prospect in this entire class.

3. Detroit Lions

Jeff Okudah | CB | Ohio State

I’m betting the Lions would love to move down from this spot, and with plenty of QB-needy teams likely to be targeting Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa, they might get the deal they’re looking for. If not, they can choose between a couple of blue-chip prospects at positions of need on defense, opting for the best player at the more premium spot here.

4. New York Giants

Andrew Thomas | OT | Georgia

If the Giants want Daniel Jones to become a true franchise quarterback, they’re going to have to protect him. General manager Dave Gettleman is as old-school as they come, so don’t be surprised when he spends this pick in the trenches. Moving back would be ideal given this year’s depth at both tackle and along the interior, but if they’re stuck here, Thomas is a strong pick.

5. Miami Dolphins

Tua Tagovailoa | QB | Alabama

In reality, the Dolphins will most likely have to move up the board to make sure they get Tagovailoa. They have the draft capital to make the move, and he’s absolutely the franchise passer they need to turn them back into a contender. As long as his medical evaluations check out, Tagovailoa should be a Dolphin for the foreseeable future, no matter what slot he ends up going.

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Lions mock draft roundup: Chase Young becoming a real possibility

Another week examining the most recent 2020 mock drafts and the same three prospects continue to be mocked to the Lions.

Another week examining the most recent 2020 mock drafts and while the majority of analysts are still connecting the Detroit Lions to Jeffrey Okudah, Derrick Brown, and Isaiah Simmons, a new name is showing up with more frequency — Chase Young.

Let’s take a closer look at what has changed this week.

EDGE Chase Young, OSU (6-5, 265)

Currently being mocked by Kyle Meinke (MLive) and Jeff Risdon (Lions Wire, Real GM), and Fansided Mock Draft Staff.

Meinke: “Nobody stands to benefit from a run on quarterbacks more than Detroit, which already has a franchise quarterback playing at a high level. Of course, it still lost 12 games last year because of a near-historically bad defense. There was no bigger reason for that than their pass rush, which was among the league’s worst. This defense won’t work without better performances up front, and Young just so happens to be the best pass rusher in this draft. Hell, he might be the best defensive prospect overall. As long as you have a quarterback in place, you don’t pass up the opportunity to lock in a playmaking pass rusher on a cost-controlled contract like this. Detroit won’t.”

CB Jeffrey Okudah, OSU (6-1, 200)

Currently being mocked by, Maurice Jones-Drew (NFL), 

Eric Edholm (Yahoo), John McClain and Aaron Wilson (Houston Chronicle), Jon Ledyard (Pewter Report), Clint Lamb (Roll Tide Wire), Will Brinson (CBS Sports), Joe Tansey (Bleacher Report), Zach Buckley (BR), Kristopher Knox (BR), Draft Tek Staff, among others, that you can find at NFL Mock Database

Edholm: “In our previous mock, we had Auburn DT Derrick Brown at this spot. Our estimation is that the Lions have three options right now: trade down (for a Tua team), or stay put and take either Okudah or Brown. And depending on how far they move down, the Lions might be able to have their cake and eat it, too. But in this scenario, the Lions nab the best cover man in the draft. With Darius Slay’s future in Detroit unclear, it would make a lot of sense.”

Ledyard: “I’m not doing trades in this mock draft, but even if I was, the Lions might want to stay put. The long-armed and rangy Okudah is exceptionally talented and fills a huge need for Detroit opposite Darius Slay. Moving back even two spots could mean missing out on this young, talented cornerback.”

DT Derrick Brown, Auburn (6-5, 325)

Currently being mocked by RJ White (CBS Sports), Matthew Tabeek (Atlanta Falcons), Charlie Campbell (Walter Football), Eddie Brown (San Diego Union-Tribune), and Brad Weiss (NFL Mock Draft)

White: “The Lions can use help at a lot of positions, and could even consider going QB here. But Brown gets the edge over Jeff Okudah due to the completeness of his game, and the Lions are losing a lot of snaps at DT to free agency.”

LB Isaiah Simmons, Clemson (6-3, 228)

Currently being mocked by A.J. Fagerlin (NFL Mocks)

Fagerlin: “Sure, the Lions could use another corner to pair with Darius Slay, but Simmons brings so much more to the table. Simmons fits extremely will in Patricia’s scheme as the extra safety/linebacker on the field in sort of a nickel role. He can play defensive end, MIKE linebacker, outside corner and everything in between. The versatility and proven production that Simmons offers are too much to pass up for a defensive head coach that is firmly on the hot seat heading into the season.”

Trades

Luke Easterling (Draft Wire): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 26 overall. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at five and Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, LSU at 26.

Dan Kadar (SB Nation): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 19 overall. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at five and K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU at 19.

Ryan Wilson (CBS Sports): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 39 overall. Then they trade pick No. 5 to the Indianapolis Colts for picks No. 13 and No. 34. The Lions selected K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU at 13 and enter Round 2 with picks 34, 35, and 39.

Chris Trapasso (CBS Sports): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and undisclosed additional picks. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at pick No. 5.

Josh Edwards (CBS Sports): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and undisclosed additional picks. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at pick No. 5.

Neal Driscoll (PFN): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 56 overall, as well as a 2021 2nd round pick. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at five and Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame at 56.

Ian Wharton (Sportsbook review): Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and “a second-rounder”. The Lions selected Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn at five.

Detroit Lions All-University of Michigan mock draft

With mock drafts coming in left and right, ever curious to see what if the Detroit Lions drafted from just the University of Michigan? It may not be as crazy as you might think.

Mock drafts are everywhere right now and the majority of them have the Detroit Lions taking either Jeffery Okudah, Chase Young, Derrick Brown, or Isaiah Simmons with their first pick.

After a while, the mundanity can set in seeing the same few players getting slated to the Lions, so we at Lions Wire decided to add a twist to traditional mock drafts by introducing a series of mock drafts that select prospects exclusively from one school.

To kick off the series, we are staying in-state and beginning with the University of Michigan.

Round 1

Pre-combine there may be only one Wolverine that might receive first-round consideration, interior offensive lineman Cesar Ruiz.

Ruiz has been gaining steam as of late to a point being regarded as the top interior lineman in the draft. He a versatile chess piece having played both center and guard while at Michigan and can fit into any scheme. With his strong mobility in space and heavy anchor, he was the highest-graded pass blocking center in 2019 through PFF. With it looking more likely Graham Glasgow leaves in free agency, the Lions could look to dip their toes in another versatile Michigan lineman to help the offensive line.

The Lions are too far up in the draft to take Ruiz, but if the Lions make a trade and acquire the 26th pick from the Dolphins, the Lions could theoretically take Ruiz to shore up the gaps that plaque the offensive line at the bottom of the first round. If Ruiz has a strong showing at the combine, he could boost his draft stock and go from a fringe first-round prospect to a sure one.

The Lions have a need at Ruiz’s position and he could anchor the vacant guard spot for years to come.

Round 2

I feel like there are two Michigan products the Lions could tag as their second-round pick, JACK linebacker Joshua Uche or receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones. Uche enjoyed a major rise to his draft stock after a dominant showing at the Senior bowl and Lions fans instantly fell in love with the local product.

He was able to show he can handle not only edge rushing, but play sticky coverage on tight ends and running backs. With his versatility as a JACK/SAM linebacker, he screams fit for the Lions.

People-Jones production in Michigan was something left to be desired considering how much of big-bodied receiver he was but with the low level of targets, it’s hard to lay the blame solely on him. With his size, speed, and ball skills, he could easily be a productive receiver at the next level. Even though his route running could improve, he has the look of receiver coaches who would love to get their hands on.

Even though the Lions have another high second-round pick, one could make an argument for either player to be the Lions’ selection. Uche will help shore up a disappointing pass rush and People-Jones could become a versatile piece in the receiving corps. It would be tempting to give Matthew Stafford another weapon, but the Lions need to look at improving their defense and Uche will help in not only edge pressure, but strong coverage abilities where the Lions lack in their linebackers.

Round 3

The Wolverines had one of the more impressive offensive interior lines this past season and the Lions could look to double-dip into that talent by selecting guard Ben Bredeson in the third round after selecting Ruiz in the first round.

Bredeson might not be as athletic as his counterpart, Ruiz, but he makes up for it with strength and power. He will plant you in the ground and have a smile on his face doing it because he loves setting the tone early. With his strong physicality, he is a great fit in a man heavy scheme perfect for what the Lions what to do in the trenches.

Even though the Lions tagged Ruiz as their first-round pick, the guard spot is in a flux and could use more bodies and they could do worse than Bredeson manning one of those spots or provide a quality backup.

 Round 4/5

The Lions’ secondary could use some help and thankfully for them the Wolverines offer a couple of intriguing options Day 3 of the draft, cornerback Lavert Hill and linebacker/safety Khaleke Hudson.

Hill’s skill set allows him to play outside, but because of his size, he is more favored to play in the slot. Having only one season of starter experience his production is minimal, but between his sticky man coverage, strength, and ball skills, he could be a diamond in the rough in the later round. The Lions could use him a potential prodigy to Coleman and provide depth on the outside in case of injuries.

Hudson is going to be one of the player’s teams might not know how to use him having played the VIPER position during his Michigan tenure. Essentially think of Hudson as a poor man’s Isiah Simmions, a free-roaming defensive chess piece, having logged snaps at off-ball linebacker, edge defender, slot corner, box safety, and deep safety. If a smart team can get ahold of him and figure out the best way to use the versatile defender they could have a player who can match up well against offenses. Since the Lions love versatile players, Hudson could match up well, starting on special teams, but could work his way to defensive snaps.

With their second fifth-round pick, the Lions might have to reach a little bit to grab a Michigan player, but tight end Sean McKeon could match up well in the Lions offense. McKeon is of those versatile tight ends who could be a three-down player with strong skills at catching and blocking. He is a technical, smart player who understands how to use leverage to his advantage and either seal off defenders or find the open spot for the catch.

The Lions likely aren’t looking for a top tight end after taking T.J Hockenson in the first round last year and signing Jesse James to a big contract, but McKeon could be one of those players who can sneak in and provide quality play as a TE3 for the Lions.

Round 6

Late in this draft, you aren’t looking for someone to contribute immediately, but the Lions could select this once highly regarded prospect who they got a first-hand look at the Senior Bowl, quarterback Shea Patterson.

Even though Patterson showed good mobility and arm strength, accuracy has plagued him constantly. He has the ability to extend plays but might tend to panic quickly and take off if his first read isn’t available or take the check down option. Patterson does have the tangibles to slide into a backup role and maybe, with some good coaching, groom into something bigger. Since the Lions were able to coach Patterson at the Senior Bowl, they know what they are getting with him and possibly vision a role for him.

Summary

Here is how the Lions draft could shape up with all Michigan players:

Late 1st- Cesar Ruiz, C
2nd- Joshua Uche, JACK
3rd- Ben Bredeson, G
4th- Lavert Hall, CB
5th- Khaleke Hudson, LB/S
5th- Sean McKeon, TE
6th- Shea Patterson, QB

Now some of the players may be reaches at this time, but with the Combine still to go, it is hard to tell how the draft will play out. Uche, Bredeson, Hudson, McKeon, and previously mentioned Patterson all participated at the Senior Bowl, so the Lions got a personal look at the majority of these players and General Manager Bob Quinn love drafting from the Senior bowl.

The University of Michigan will be well represented with the second most participating players giving the Lions another opportunity to get a first-hand look at the players. So it’s not out of the realm of possibilities to see some of these players finding their way on the Lions roster come draft day.

2020 NFL mock draft: Post-Super Bowl projections with trades

I’ve watched the Super Bowl from many different places, but this was the first year in which I took in the big game while flying over the Atlantic. On our way to attend my wife’s graduation in England, my nine-year-old daughter and I huddled around …

I’ve watched the Super Bowl from many different places, but this was the first year in which I took in the big game while flying over the Atlantic.

On our way to attend my wife’s graduation in England, my nine-year-old daughter and I huddled around the screen in our seats and watched the NFL season come to an entertaining and dramatic end. It was a worthy ending to the league’s 100th season.

You know it’s always draft season around here, but now it’s official, as all 32 teams now enter the offseason with their sights set on getting to where Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs just went.

To that end, here’s an updated look at how the first round of the 2020 NFL draft could shake out, with a few trade scenarios that could spice things up:

*denotes projected trade

1. Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow | QB | LSU

Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

This has seemed like a foregone conclusion for so long, that we’re starting to get to the point in the process where rumors and speculation start to swirl to the contrary. Don’t buy into the boredom; Burrow has always been the guy for the Bengals, and that’s not going to change between now and draft day.

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#OnePride 2020 Lions Fan Mock Draft 4.0

The latest edition of #OnePride Fan based mock draft is based on a reader suggested scenario where quarterbacks are selected with the top two picks and allowing Chase Young to fall to the Lions.

Using the Draft Network‘s Mock Draft simulator, we at Lions Wire presented the #OnePride Twitter fan base four options in each round and allowed them to vote on who they would like the team to pick. After making their selection, the simulator picks for the other 31 teams and then the Lions’ fans are back on the clock for another selection.

For clarification, the four best players are selected by a Lions Wire staff editor/writer, but Lions Wire doesn’t vote — unless there is a tie — or influence the voting. Additionally, Lions Wire is not ranking the players where or when they are available — the simulator makes those decisions. We only offer up the best options.

This edition of the #OnePride Mock Draft was based on a scenario suggested by Lions Wire reader David Alexander — The Cincinnatti Bengals select LSU quarterback Joe Burrow with the first overall pick and then a quarterback-needy team trades with Washington to select a healthy Tua Tagovailoa, leaving the Lions with more options with the third pick.

Round 1, Pick 3: Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State

No surprise, Chase Young received 95-percent of the voting.

This is the exact scenario Lions Wire editor Jeff Risdon suggested in a recent Mock Draft he wrote for Real GM, where the Los Angeles Chargers traded up and Young fell to the Lions at pick three.

Because we are using Draft Network’s simulation in this edition, it makes sense to also use their writers for player summaries. Here is Kyle Crabbs summary on Young:

Chase Young is an elite NFL Draft prospect who can step into any defensive system in the league and find a home in the starting lineup. Young has a surreal potency as a pass rusher, constantly gaining ground, attacking hands and showcasing elite length and flexibility at the top of the arc. Young is a game changing player who opponents will have to cater game plans around in order to negate his disruptive qualities — he’s highly refined with hand tech and should be a splash starter right away.

Erik’s take: No brainer choice here as Young gives the Lions a boost in the pass-rushing department, while also allowing the players around him more freedom to make an impact.

Round 2, Pick 35: Grant Delpit, S, LSU

Crabbs player summary:

Grant Delpit projects as an impact defender at the NFL level. Tackling issues in the open field will put off some teams, but he’s physically capable of booming hits and his foundation as a player is a pretty rare blend of skills — making him an enticing every down defender that can be a centerpiece to weekly game plans. Delpit has high football intelligence and can handle any number of roles or responsibilities, adding him to a roster will add infinite flexibility to back-end coverage combos.

Erik’s take: By adding Delpit, the Lions can drop him at single-high, allowing Tracy Walker more time in his flex (JOKER) role, and shifting Will Harris into a more natural Tavon Wilson-like role.

Round 3, Pick, 67: K.J. Hill, slot WR, Ohio State

Draft Network’s Brad Kelly:

The veteran wideout has a skillset that is predicated on fluidity, able to snap off his route or accelerate through breaks with ease. There’s a reason he’s gotten open so much in his collegiate career, part of which is his understanding of voids and space in defenses.

Hill works the best out of the slot, but has the size and skillset to suggest he can survive outside in the NFL. With his career production, athleticism and talent, he’s a legitimate top-100 draft pick even in the loaded 2020 receiver class.

Erik’s take: The Lions will need to find a starter capable of winning from the slot and Hill brings them everything they are looking for.

Round 4, Pick 106: Damien Lewis, G, LSU

Crabbs player summary:

Damien Lewis projects as a scheme specific starter at the pro level. Lewis doesn’t have a lot of dynamic range and won’t be appealing to zone heavy rushing offenses and even in gap/power schemes he has some limitations that will temper his upside in the lineup. Lewis has enough foot speed, recovery ability and power to execute at an operational level as a starter and he’s at his best when he’s able to combo or block down in the run game. Tight quarters guard.

Erik’s take: Crabbs write-up suggests Lewis may not fit the Lions scheme, but I believe Lewis would challenge at right guard in Spring practices and by the end of training camp, he could end up as the Lions Day 1 starter.

Round 5, Pick 149: Raequan Williams, IDL, Michigan State

Draft Network’s Ben Sloak:

A longer player with great quickness who knows how to slant into gaps and win at the snap. Regularly the first player off the ball, Williams must fix his pad level to become a more effective player, but when he lands his hands inside his opponent, he can displace them frequently, working to a half-man to force the quarterback off his set point.

Erik’s take: Williams is a player the Lions have been scouting for several years now and can take over the previous role occupied by A’Shawn Robinson as a rotational interior defender.

Round 5, Pick 173: AJ Dillon, RB, Boston College

Crabbs player summary:

AJ Dillon projects best as a gap/power rusher at the NFL level. Dillon is at his best as a deep set back who can collect momentum working into the POA and carry his burst through the hole. Asking him to slow play, press the line and read/accelerate out of a cut takes away many of his appealing qualities. In a perfect world, Dillon is a short yardage specialist and/or early down back who can churn out tough yards and keep the offense on schedule with the sticks.

Erik’s take: For the first time this season, we had a vote that landed in a tie. Both AJ Dillon and Nebraska corner Lamar Jackson earned 35.6-percent of the vote and I broke the tiebreaker based on overall talent and year-one impact on the roster.

Round 6, Pick 182: Willie Gay Jr, LB, Mississippi State

Gay’s profile isn’t available yet at Draft Network yet, but he is highly-graded by Pro Football Focus:

Gay is one of the most confounding evaluations at the linebacker position in this class. His movement skills are top-notch for the position. He’ll likely run in at least the 4.5s — if not faster — and gains depth with ease in coverage.

After reeling in a pick-six on his very first drive of the season against Kentucky, Gay was subsequently suspended for undisclosed reasons after the game. The off-field vetting for Gay during the draft process may very well be as important as the on-field.

Erik’s take: Gay’s off-the-field situation may take him off the Lions draft board, but if they can overlook it, he would offer value late on Day 3 of the draft. Personally, I believe the front runner at this pick is likely Texas A&M punter Braden Mann.

Lions mock draft roundup: Is a Top-3 prospect pool emerging?

Another week examining the most recent 2020 mock drafts and the same three prospects continue to be mocked to the Lions: Jeffrey Okudah, Derrick Brown, and Isaiah Simmons.

Another week examining the most recent 2020 mock drafts and the same three prospects continue to be mocked to the Lions: Jeffrey Okudah, Derrick Brown, and Isaiah Simmons.

Writers are beginning to incorporate trades into their mock drafts, which shakes things up a bit, but if the Lions stay at pick No. 3, the general consensus seems to be that they’ll grab one of the three players mentioned above.

Let’s take a closer look at what has changed this week.

CB Jeffrey Okudah, OSU (6-1, 200)

Currently being mocked by, USA Today’s Nate Davis, ESPN’s Todd McShay, NFL.com’s Chad Reuter, CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson, Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller, Kristopher Knox, Scott Polacek, and Joe Tansey, Pro Football Network’s Nick Farabaugh, Fantasy Pros’ Bobby Sylvester, Baltimore Sun’s C.J. Doon, NJ.com’s Darryl Slater, Bleeding Green Nation’s Ben Natan, NFL Mocks’ Branden Peplowski, With the First Pick’s Nicholas Perlich, among others, that you can find at NFL Mock Database

Reuter: “Okudah’s speed, size and length offer a rare combination at the position. The Lions allowed a league-worst 284.4 pass yards a game in 2019 and tied for the fewest interceptions in the league (seven).”

Wilson: “Okudah’s effort vs. Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl last month was the closest thing we’ve seen to a shutdown corner during the ’19 season; he put the clamps on Tee Higgins and Justyn Ross for most of the night and solidified his place as the No. 1 cornerback in this draft class.”

Miller: “The Lions have several needs, most on defense, and could also look at auctioning off this selection to a team like the Miami Dolphins who want to trade up for a quarterback. In a mock draft without trade predictions, what makes the most sense is drafting a shutdown cornerback prospect who is solid on and off the field with excellent size (6’1″, 200 lbs), instincts, toughness and character.”

DT Derrick Brown, Auburn (6-5, 325)

Currently being mocked by Detroit News’ Justin Rogers, SB Nation’s Dan Kadar, and Cover 1’s Russell Brown

Rogers: “Ideally, the Lions are able to trade down from this spot, pick up some extra draft equity and still get one of the top defenders on their board. Staying put, the polished and productive interior lineman fills one of Detroit’s biggest needs, which only becomes more glaring if “Snacks” Harrison retires.”

Kadar: “For as easy as it is to predict Young to Washington, it’s still difficult to get a grasp on what the Lions could do with the third overall pick. This could be a spot for a trade up if Miami gets anxious about missing out on Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The Lions could also go a few different directions if they make the pick. This week, it’s Brown, the brutish defensive lineman who pushes blockers around with ease.”

Brown: “Truly, the Lions should trade back regardless of what offer presents itself. By the time we get to April, defensive tackle could be their biggest need. Brown is the most disruptive interior defensive lineman in this class and he’d be a perfect fit in Patricia’s multiple front defense.”

LB Isaiah Simmons, Clemson (6-3, 228)

Currently being mocked by CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards, Cover 1’s Christian Page, NFL Draft Lounge’s Eric Kirschbaum, and Blogging the Boys’ David Howman

Edwards: “Detroit is an interesting team early in the draft. They could trade the pick to a team looking to trade up for a quarterback or could take the best player on their board. Simmons is a defensive chess piece that will elevate everyone’s play.

Page: “Simmons would be an ideal candidate to play matchup-specific coverage similar to how Matt Patricia used Patrick Chung in New England, among others.”

Trades

Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling: Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 26 overall. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at five and Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State at 26.

PFF’s Mike Renner: Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 26 overall. The Lions selected Jeffrey Okudah, CB, OSU at five and Utah State’s Jordan Love at 26.

With the First Pick’s Randy Gurzi: Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Miami Dolphins for picks No. 5 and No. 26 overall. The Lions selected Isaiah Simmons, S/LB, Clemson at five and K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU at 26.

Mockout’s Micky McKeon: Lions trade pick No. 3 to the Las Vegas Raiders for picks No. 12 and 19 in the first round. Lions grab K’Lavon Chaisson, JACK, LSU at 12 and Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU at 19.