Four weeks is enough time to have a better idea of the team needs for the 2023 NFL draft. The updated mock draft projections from Draft Wire after Week 4 reflect precisely where the Detroit Lions should be looking for help in next year’s draft.
The defense.
Analyst Luke Easterling projected all three Lions selections in the first two rounds to the defensive side of the ball. Leading off at the No. 9 overall pick–based on the current draft order determined by the NFL standings–is Penn State CB Joey Porter Jr. He’s become a popular projection for his length on the outside and hard-hitting pedigree.
With the pick acquired from the Los Angeles Rams, No. 24 overall right now, the Lions go back to the secondary with Texas A&M safety Antonio Johnson.
More reinforcements are needed for the Lions’ porous defense, and in this scenario, the best marriage of fit and value comes on the back end. Johnson is a big, rangy playmaker with an impressive combination of instincts, athleticism and ball skills, and can make big plays in coverage or in run support.
In the second round, the projection turns to linebacker. Alabama’s tackling machine, Henry To’o To’o. The senior LB is undersized and lacks power but has excellent range and simply does not miss tackles. His awareness in coverage has improved in 2022 for the Crimson Tide, too. Landing To’o To’o at No. 38 would be a nice fit.
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