Detroit Lions 3-Round Mock Draft–The roar of the Detroit Lions faithful at Ford Field hung heavy in the air after their heartbreaking NFC Championship loss. Despite a valiant effort against the 49ers, the Lions fell short of their ultimate goal. However, with a young and hungry core in place, the future remains bright in Motown. The 2024 NFL Draft presents a golden opportunity to address key weaknesses and propel the Lions into Super Bowl contention.
Here’s a breakdown of a 2024 NFL Mock Draft for the Detroit Lions, using thePFF Mock Draft simulator, focusing on the first three rounds:
2024 NFL Mock Draft: Detroit Lions 3-Round Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 29: Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri
The Lions boast a budding star in Aidan Hutchinson, but their pass rush still lacks consistent pressure. With the 29th pick, they should prioritize a complementary edge rusher in Darius Robinson from Missouri.
Robinson is a relentless pass rusher with a ferocious motor. He possesses a devastating combination of speed and power, allowing him to bulldoze through tackles or use his agility to exploit their weaknesses. His explosiveness off the snap allows him to get into the backfield quickly, disrupting plays and collapsing the pocket.
While Robinson primarily relies on his athleticism to generate pressure, he also displays a growing arsenal of pass-rushing moves. He utilizes a variety of hand techniques to shed blockers and create opportunities to get to the quarterback.
Adding Robinson alongside Hutchinson would create a terrifying edge-rushing duo for opposing quarterbacks to deal with. Their contrasting styles would keep offensive lines guessing, as Robinson’s speed could complement Hutchinson’s power perfectly. This potent combination would significantly improve the Lions’ pass rush, generating more turnovers and taking pressure off the secondary.
Moreover, Robinson isn’t a one-trick pony. He sets a strong edge in the run game, helping to contain outside runs and forcing ball carriers back inside where they can be met by the linebackers. This ability to contribute in run defense makes Robinson a well-rounded player who can make an immediate impact on the Lions’ defense.
Round 2, Pick 61: Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut
The Lions’ offensive line has shown flashes of brilliance, but struggles with interior pressure remain a concern. Shoring up the guard position becomes a priority in the second round with the selection of Christian Haynes from Connecticut.
Haynes is a road-grading guard with a powerful build (6’4″, 320 lbs) and exceptional strength. He excels at run blocking, driving defenders off the line of scrimmage, and creating running lanes for the running backs. His anchor strength allows him to hold his ground against bull rushes, ensuring a clean pocket for Jared Goff.
Haynes is also surprisingly nimble for his size, showcasing good footwork and agility in pass protection. He can mirror stunts and blitzes effectively, giving Goff the time he needs to find open receivers.
The Lions’ rushing attack took a significant step forward last season. Adding Haynes to the mix would solidify the interior line, allowing the running game to reach its full potential. Haynes’ presence would also benefit Goff, who played his best football when the offensive line provided him with ample protection.
This selection prioritizes a balanced approach. Haynes strengthens the run blocking, but his pass-blocking abilities shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s a plug-and-play option who can immediately improve the overall quality of the Lions’ offensive line.
Round 3, Pick 73: Jalen McMillian, WR, Washington
The Lions have a solid receiving corps led by Amon St. Brown, but adding another reliable target wouldn’t hurt. Jalen McMillian, a dynamic wide receiver from Washington, fits the bill perfectly in the third round.
McMillan is a possession receiver with a knack for making contested catches. He possesses a large catch radius (6’3″, 205 lbs) and displays impressive body control, allowing him to high-point passes and win jump balls in traffic. His strong hands ensure that he can consistently haul in tough grabs.
While McMillian isn’t a burner, he possesses enough speed to create separation underneath and work the middle of the field. He runs crisp routes and has a good understanding of zone coverage, making him a reliable target for Goff on short-to-intermediate throws.
Adding McMillian provides Goff with another weapon in the passing game. He can be a reliable third option who can move the chains consistently and create opportunities for himself in the red zone. His presence would also allow St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta to operate with more space, potentially unlocking their full potential.
