2020 NFL Draft: 5 players Lions could take in Round 1

2. Isaiah Simmons

Jarrad Davis is a top quality middle linebacker for the Lions, but he could really benefit from the addition of a playmaker like Simmons alongside him. Drafting an outside linebacker at No. 3 might raise some eyebrows around the NFL, but Simmons has a lot of fans in the scouting community.

When you watch his Clemson tape you see a guy who is capable of making plays all over the field. He’s not what you’d call a natural pass rusher, but the sheer athleticism he plays with gives him a chance to develop into a quality edge rusher at the next level.

Where Simmons really pops is making plays in space. That applies to the run game, but more importantly, to his ability to drop into coverage and be a difference maker. Selecting a player who has the ability to notch double-digit sacks and make plays in the deep third of the field should really appeal to the Lions coaching staff.

If Detroit does want to add Simmons to their defense, they will almost certainly need to stand pat at No. 3. The chances of him getting by the Giants at No. 4 are remote. Taking Simmons there might not electrify the fan base, but it could propel this defense up the NFL rankings in 2020.