2020 NFL mock draft: Detroit Lions replace Darius Slay

2 of 16

LINCOLN, NE – SEPTEMBER 28: Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Jeff Okudah (L) comes up with an interception against Nebraska Cornhuskers wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) during the game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on September 28, 2019, played at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, NE. (Photo by Steve Nurenberg/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

3. player. 50. . Cornerback. Detroit Lions. Jeffrey Okudah

The Detroit Lions have been all over the news in recent weeks, as rumors were swirling that they were planning on moving on from franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford. While the organization vehemently denied that, there is truth to the fact they plan on fielding offers for cornerback Darius Slay, who would have to be replaced if they do trade him.

Enter Jeffrey Okudah from Ohio State, who is widely regarded as the best cornerback prospect in this draft class, and a top-five talent. Okudah could step in and lead this defensive backfield for years to come, as he is going to be a legitimate CB1 at the NFL level, and will be able to shut down one side of the field.

The NFC North has one of the best quarterbacks of all-time in Aaron Rodgers, and he has made his living picking apart the Lions during his career. Detroit needs to get better in its defensive backfield, and Okudah is a guy who can come in and be a difference-maker in their secondary from Day 1.

player. 31. . Offensive Tackle. New York Giants. Andrew Thomas. 4

The New York Giants could do a number of different things with the No. 4 overall pick, including moving back in a trade with a team that needs a quarterback. New York does not need a quarterback this April, as they selected Daniel Jones with the No. 6 overall pick last April, and he proved he can certainly be a franchise guy at the NFL level.

With their choice, if they do decide to hang on to the selection, the Giants would be wise to bring in the best offensive tackle in this draft class. Andrew Thomas from Georgia is an absolute mauler, and by selecting him, they would be bringing in a player who can protect Jones’ blindside for the foreseeable future.

New York has a new head coach in Joe Judge, who comes to the team with a championship resume, as he has won it all at the college and pro level. He has to make protecting Jones his No. 1 priority, and in Thomas, he would be solidifying the left tackle position, enabling Nate Solder to move over to the right side, much like Trent Brown did with the Oakland Raiders this season.

Home/NFL Mock Draft