NFL Draft 2019: Detroit Lions full mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 5 – Pick 146
Beau Benzschawel, G, Wisconsin
Detroit was smart to look ahead at their offensive line and grab Tyrell Crosby in last year’s draft. He should plug into the guard spot which is the biggest hole on the Lions offensive line. Crosby is a converted tackle so it may not be a smooth transition. Why not grab a true guard from an elite offensive line as insurance.
That is what Beau Benzschawel can be. Bare minimum he is a depth piece that gives the Lions insurance if their guards go down. If he reaches his peak this could be a steal with a fifth round guard being a starting player early in his career. Benzschawel is a power player who projects to a power scheme but has the traits that can appeal to any offensive system.
Round 6 – Pick 184
Ricky Walker, DT, Virginia Tech
The Lions lack depth along the defensive line. Ricky Walker of Virginia Tech can help that. Walker is an exciting prospect who was very productive during his time with the Hokies. He’s a quick penetrator from the interior who can get into opposing backfields. However, he’s a short armed, and lacks the anchor to play meaningful reps for an NFL team yet. Patricia might be able to maximize him into a role where he can thrive but right now this is a depth move for a unit that is a good group for Detroit.
Round 6 – Pick 204
Dre Greenlaw, LB, Arkansas
The Lions have a trio of linebackers that they like. Adding depth and competition in the back-end of the draft would help. Dre Greenlaw is an interesting evaluation. It was hard to watch Arkansas’ defense without noticing him. He was just always around the action. His passive nature and aversion to taking on blocks limit his ceiling. Greenlaw’s speed and athleticism will find him a home on a roster. That becomes even more true if he is willing to play special teams where he could turn into a very good player.
Round 7 – Pick 224
Jimmy Moreland, CB, James Madison
Corner is a position that the Lions could double dip at. The group has highly touted and highly paid players already on it. As the NFL evolves there are never enough guys who can cover. JMU’s Jimmy Moreland is a favorite of mine in the last round of the draft. A true slot corner, Moreland was a highlight of the East/West Shrine Game this postseason. He’s an extremely productive corner who may just not have the frame for every down work in the NFL. Not seeing him at the combine really hurt his stock. I’m still betting on him getting drafted and helping a defensive backfield in some ways as a sub package defender.
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Round 7 – Pick 229
Khari Willis, S, Michigan State
Another player who would help the Lions special teams is Khari Willis of Michigan State. Detroit has their three safeties in place with Glover Quinn, Tracy Walker and Miles Killebrew. There is still a need after those to add palyers. Willis is a highly intelligent safety who simply lacks the athleticism and instincts to be an NFL starter. With his football IQ and mentality he can develop into a great special teams player. Patricia will love what he brings to the table and he can be a mainstay on the back-end of a roster.