2017 NFL Mock Draft: Wild Card Edition
By Tyler Brooke
Carl Lawson
EDGE, Auburn
As one of the worst teams at getting to opposing quarterbacks, the Detroit Lions desperately need to get some help rushing the passer. Adding a talented edge rusher who can get to guys like Aaron Rodgers could go a long way in helping the Lions become a consistent contender in the NFC North.
The Lions could draft an edge rusher who could naturally fit as a 4-3 defensive end, and Auburn’s Carl Lawson fits that mold. He’s a powerful pass rusher at 6-foot-2 and 260 pounds, using his long arms to disengage and make plays.
Some scouts might be worried about Lawson’s previous injury history, but the Auburn pass rusher has stayed healthy all year. That will go a long way in helping his draft stock, especially if everything checks out while he’s at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Lawson was able to rack up nine sacks and 24 quarterback hurries heading into Auburn’s bowl game. There aren’t a lot of guys who can say that they were able to get to opposing quarterbacks that frequently this year.
That’s the kind of production that the Lions are looking for. With Lawson and Ziggy Ansah as their two defensive ends, the Lions could start getting a little more aggressive with their play calling.