NFL Draft 2019: Detroit Lions full mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 3 – Pick 88
Mecole Hardman, WR, Georgia
On paper the wide receiver position does not look like an area of need for this Detroit Lions team. Marvin Jones is a proven veteran who gets underrated as a top option for an elite passing offense. Kenny Golladay is a young, big time playmaker who is still growing as a player. Even with last year only being his second year, he’s shown promise as a complimentary receiver that can grow into a more prominent role. The addition of Danny Amendola gives them a presence in the slot who is a veteran and knows how to get open. After those three the talent level drops off significantly. TommyLee Lewis is the fourth in line on the depth chart after coming over from New England.
An area of the receiving corps that could be improved is with speed. Golladay and Jones are very adept at catching deep passes with Jones being one of the league’s best in recent years. Neither of those are described as a speed receiver.
Mecole Hardman of Georgia is. Hardman is so fast that when you watch him on tape it almost looks like he is playing at another speed as everyone else. There are certain guys that when they touch the ball it’s exciting because of how fast they get to top speed compared to everyone else, that is what Hardman brings to the table. An underrated route runner, Hardman is going to have a better career in the NFL than with the Bulldogs.
As an added benefit the Lions would get an elite option as a returner. Hardman is a hard worker and will not be afraid to play special teams giving Detroit a speedy threat as a gunner in punt coverage as well. This is a bit of a luxury pick but with how fast Hardman plays and what the Lions do offensively, it’s a great match.