Lions Go Heavy On Defense In MMQB's Five-Round Mock

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The Lions made defense a priority in free agency, and they're likely to do the same in the draft. That's the natural response after you allow over 400 yards per game. 

In a five-round mock from SI's MMQB -- one without trades -- the Lions use their first four picks and five of their first seven on defense. 

Their biggest decision comes at No. 3, with Ohio State CB Jeffrey Okudah, Clemson LB Isaiah Simmons and Auburn DT Derrick Brown all on the board. Detroit goes with the ACC Defensive Player of the Year who has the tools to thrive in Matt Patricia's defense:

"Whether picking at No. 3, 5 or 6, the Lions will likely debate Simmons or Ohio State’s Jeffrey Okudah (if both are available) when they are on the clock. The depth of the cornerback class allows the Lions to take Clemson’s do-it-all hybrid defender here with a chance to nab a talented cornerback prospect at the top of Round 2 to pair with free-agent addition Desmond Trufant."
While Okudah has been the popular pick thus far for the Lions, it's worth noting that GM Bob Quinn raved about Simmons at the combine. Detroit's defense needs more speed in the middle of the field, and Simmons would help address that. 

After passing on Okudah, the Lions take a cornerback with their second pick (No. 35 overall) in Utah's Jaylon Johnson. He'd give Detroit another matchup corner to play opposite free-agent signee Desmond Trufant. Johnson had 11 passes defended and two picks last season. 

The Lions use their two third-round picks to bolster the D-line. First they take Texas A&M DT Justin Madubuike (No. 67 overall), who 11 sacks, 22 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles over the last two seasons. Then they add some speed to the outside with Utah edge rusher Bradlee Anae, who racked up 13 sacks in 2019. 

Detroit's first addition on offense comes in the fourth round (No. 109 overall) in Texas WR Devin Duvernay. He led the Longhorns in receiving with 1,386 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior and would enhance Detroit's impressive cast of receivers. 

The Lions go back to defense in the fifth round (No. 149 overall), taking Michigan State CB Josiah Scott. The former Spartan would provide more depth in the secondary, where Detroit continues to go young. 

The Lions add some depth on the O-line with their second fifth-round pick (No. 167 overall), taking Auburn's Jack Driscoll. He was a two-year starter at right tackle for the Tigers. 

The two surprises in this scenario? Detroit doesn't address its need at guard and it doesn't add another running back. When the draft comes in two weeks, expect the Lions to focus on both those positions within the first few rounds.