Detroit Lions draft 2017: What to watch for on day two
By Zac Snyder
The Detroit Lions are slated for two more draft picks on day two of the 2017 NFL Draft. Here is what to watch for on Friday night.
The NFL Draft is often filled with twists and turns and while that was certainly the case as the first round played out last night, the Detroit Lions’ pick was not unexpected. A popular pick in mock drafts in the final days leading up to draft night, the Lions landed Florida linebacker Jarrad Davis with the 21st overall pick.
It was a match of need and value to get the Lions’ 2017 draft off to a good start. Now comes day two.
Just like with the wide-open intrigue of what the Lions would do with their first round pick, there are a number of ways they could go on day two even after having filled a need at linebacker. Here are some things to watch for during the second and third rounds tonight.
Secondary in round two?
Barring a run on defensive backs, the Lions look to be in good position to add a safety or corner with their second round pick. Obi Melifonwu’s freakish performance in the NFL Combine didn’t result in him being taken in the first round and a handful of corners measuring 6’+ remain on the board that figure to go some time in the second round. With Darius Slay the only cornerback in a meaningful role under contract beyond 2017, the Lions should be looking for someone they can count on as a starter in year two.
Double down?
Linebacker was going to be a need heading into the draft even if the Lions hadn’t decided to move on from DeAndre Levy. The Lions can hope they backfilled Levy’s spot by drafting Jarrad Davis but that alone doesn’t make for a solid linebacking corps after a lackluster free agency period that netted just Paul Worrilow and Nick Bellore. If the board falls unfavorably in rounds two or three to fill other needs, it wouldn’t be such a bad idea to double down on linebackers in the draft to secure the future. Zach Cunningham in round two or Alex Anzalone or Blair Brown in round three would make sense.
Finally a trade?
Bob Quinn went into his first draft with ten picks at his disposal and made ten selections without moving up or down. Now eleven picks into his career as general manager, Quinn still hasn’t made a draft day trade. There was reportedly interest in the Lions’ pick at 21, but either the return was deemed too light or the move down too big. Will we see a trade on day two? Bob Quinn has to make a draft day trade eventually, right?
Offense or defense?
Most expect the Lions to have a draft class heavy on defensive players but don’t be surprised to see the Lions dip into the offensive talent pool at least once on day two. With needs and solid prospect pools at tight end, wide receiver and potentially running back, Quinn’s philosophy of best player available meshed with team needs figures to lead to a pick on offense at some point in rounds two and/or three.
Next: Rapid reactions to Lions' pick of Jarrad Davis
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