2019 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions 7-round mock for Matt Patricia

2019 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions 7-round mock

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 30: Head coach Matt Patricia of the Detroit Lions watches from the sideline during the second half of a game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 30, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 30: Marquise Blair #13 of the Utah Utes warms up before the Pac 12 Championship game against the Washington Huskies at Levi’s Stadium on November 30, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Round 4: Marquise Blair

The Lions gave Quadre Diggs a big deal, but Glover Quinn is making a lot of money relative to his production level. At the very least, look for Detroit to investigate the possibility of moving on from him this offseason.

If they do let go of Quinn, they’ll need to address the safety position in the draft. Coming away with Blair in round four would give the Lions a quality developmental prospect at the position. He’s not a player who should be relied upon right away, but he’s got a boatload of intriguing physical gifts.

The main thing you see from Blair on film is just how fast he can run. He’s got exceptional closing speed from the back end. His ability to run plays down gives him a lot of margin for error when it comes to his decision-making.

Unfortunately, he needs every bit of that room to make mistakes. He doesn’t look very good diagnosing multiple route concepts at this point. Blair will need a lot of coaching at the next level to stand up to the mental rigors of playing safety in the NFL.

Blair is a pick for the future more than the present. If the Lions can be patient with him, he could turn into a nice starter down the line if things break right.

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