Lions may have options if they pursue trading back in first round

Feb 24, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith (13) participates in a passing drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

On Sunday, my colleague Zac Snyder wrote the scenarios of the Lions possibly trading back from the fifth overall pick. With Ravens insider Aaron Wilson saying the Browns our close to a deal with outside linebacker Paul Kruger, it may create an opportunity for the Lions to move back.

Sources say Browns are closing in on their target: Ravens pass rushing outside linebacker Paul Kruger. Nothing official yet of course

— Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) March 12, 2013

If this report holds, it would negate a need for a pass rusher and allow the Browns to target their quarterback of the future. With teams like the Buffalo Bills and the Arizona Cardinals also potentially targeting the top quarterback in a weak class, it makes the fifth pick very appealing.

With heat on the Browns to move up before others strike, the Lions could be a good position if they want too add more picks. Last year, with teams behind them pursuing running back Trent Richardson, the team moved up one pick to ensure Richardson was their pick. The Vikings were able to add an additional fourth, fifth and seventh round picks.

If the Lions our pursuing a defensive end with their first round pick, like many presume, players like Ezekiel Ansah, Dion Jordan and Damontre Moore should be there if they move back.

With many holes on both sides of the ball for the Lions, Mayhew may look to maximize this draft by stockpiling picks, something the Lions rarely do.