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NFL Draft 2016: Detroit Lions Seven-Round Mock Draft 2.0

By Zac Snyder

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 14, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings (75) during the game against the Oklahoma Sooners at McLane Stadium. The Sooners defeat the Bears 44-34. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings (75) during the game against the Oklahoma Sooners at McLane Stadium. The Sooners defeat the Bears 44-34. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

With the Detroit Lions already re-signing Tyrunn Walker and expected to do the same with Haloti Ngata, uncertainty at the defensive tackle position could quickly be a thing of the past. Add in young players in Caraun Reid and Gabe Wright and the Lions’ defensive tackle rotation could be nearly set.

However, nearly set and set are two different things and upgrading the defensive tackle position early in the draft should remain a consideration. One prospect who would make a lot of sense is Baylor DT Andrew Billings.

Part of what Billings a good fit is that he projects as a 1-technique in the Lions’ defense, making him a good fit with the 3-tech defensive tackles already on the roster.

The 2016 NFL Draft is regarded as defens-heavy in general and deep in defensive tackles more specifically. While some might think a deep group means it is better to hold off until later in the draft, the Lions would be better off using an early pick to grab one of the very best of a deep crop of prospects. Doubling up in later rounds would be a good strategy for a team looking to completely rebuild the interior of their defensive line but that’s not the Lions.

A deep group means it will take a special player to stand at or near the top of the pack.

Next: Round 2

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