2017 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions 7-round mock

Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 25, 2016; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns running back D’Onta Forman (33) reacts against the Texas Christian Horned Frogs during the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. TCU won 31-9. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports /

D'Onta Foreman

Running back, Texas

Last season the offense was too predictable in Detroit. Ameer Abdullah went down to injury. Theo Riddick was injured throughout the year, and when he plays he is more of a pass catching threat than runner. The team drafted Dwayne Washington, but with just a seventh round pick he may be worth moving on from after just one year. While Zach Zenner did emerge a bit as a between the tackles, hard-nosed runner, Foreman could step in year one and be the best back of the bunch.

Foreman has the size of a power back, but the finesse style of a speed back. He has great footwork and body movement to hit small holes, and then he uses his weight and low center of gravity to create force and break away speed. Foreman led the country in rushing attempts, so he has the ability to be a workhorse back, and has the experience, size and durability to start in the NFL as a rookie.

The Lions have rotated backs for too long. While Riddick can be used in the passing game, and Abdullah is a nice option, the Lions can rely on Foreman, and sneak those two in to mix up the defense or create receiving threats out of the backfield. Foreman is a great compliment to those two, and with a revamped offensive line, the Lions should be ready to pound the rock in 2017.

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