The latest 2023 NFL mock mock draft from Draft Wire throws an extra round into the mix, extending out through the third round. It also adds a couple of names not normally projected to the Detroit Lions as possible Brad Holmes picks.
Detroit’s first pick is one of the more common contemporary projections. Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon gets the nod from Draft Wire editor Luke Easterling. It’s a fit that makes a lot of sense,
The Lions could be a trade-back candidate here, but if they stick and pick, Witherspoon represents the best marriage of need and value in this scenario. His film shows a polished cover man who can excel in either man or zone, with the instincts and ball skills to be a big-play magnet.
At 18, the first new name pops up. Texas RB Bijan Robinson is the consensus top running back in a deep draft class. His actual draft slot is very difficult to forecast, but in this scenario he falls to Detroit at No. 18 overall,
Sometimes, you just have to throw needs out the window and draft the best available player on the board. The Lions have way bigger needs elsewhere, but the value just isn’t there at any of them. D’Andre Swift has struggled to stay healthy, Jamaal Williams is a free agent, and Robinson is a top-five talent in this class.
Wisconsin DT Keeanu Benton, fresh off a very impressive Senior Bowl week, earns the pick at No. 48 overall. Detroit’s own second-rounder injects a penetrating interior lineman with great hands and an NFL-ready game.
With the Vikings pick at No. 55, Alabama safety Jordan Battle heads to Detroit. His Crimson Tide running mate Brain Branch is a frequent projection for one of Detroit’s first-round picks, but Battle typically doesn’t show up in mock drafts for the Lions. Nor does third-rounder Andrew Vorhees, a mauling interior offensive lineman from USC who would push to start at right guard right away.
