Mock draft watch: Lions load up defense with a top-shelf QB in Draft Wire’s latest 2-round projections
Now that the calendar has flipped into December, mock draft season really starts heating up. The latest two-round mock draft projections from Draft Wire definitely turn up the burners for the Detroit Lions.
With their first pick, the one acquired from the Los Angeles Rams, the Lions select Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud. The pick was fourth overall entering Week 14 and these projections were completed by Draft Wire editor Luke Easterling prior to Thursday night’s comeback win by the Rams over the Raiders.
Jared Goff isn’t a problem or anything, but he’s also not a long-term solution for the Lions. If they luck out and get a top-five pick from the Rams, this scenario would give them the perfect opportunity to land their quarterback of the future in Stroud.
Detroit’s own first-rounder, No. 15 overall, hits up the defense. Versatile Alabama DB Brian Branch gets the nod. Branch plays both safety and nickel CB for the Crimson Tide, and that happens to be the primary role needed in Detroit’s defense this offseason,
Detroit’s corner play on the outside has been a pleasant surprise so far this season, but they could still use a hybrid defender with the versatility to line up in the slot or at either safety spot. Branch is the perfect fit, having handled a similar role in Nick Saban’s defense with great success.
The Lions have two second-round picks as well. Detroit’s pick falls at No. 45 overall, while the team also owns the Vikings pick at No. 61 thanks to the T.J. Hockenson trade. Those picks also address defense.
At 45, the Lions build the family by selecting LB Noah Sewell from Oregon. Yes, he is Penei’s brother. The projection here is higher than he’s generally expected to go after an underwhelming season for the Ducks, but Sewell offers starting potential. At 61, Detroit adds some beef with Wisconsin DT Keeanu Benton. It’s another position where the Lions must add some young depth with higher upside, and Benton checks those boxes.
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