Detroit Lions Draft 2016: Seven-Round Mock Draft

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Oct 25, 2014; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back Justin Simmons (27) reacts after intercepting a pass late in the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Boston College defeated Wake Forest 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Safety is one of the most pressing needs the Lions have this offseason. At the beginning of free agency Detroit was rumored to be making a strong push for George Iloka, but he resigned with the Bengals. Then Quinn made two average safety acquisitions in Rafael Bush and Tavon Wilson. I’m not sure if the Lions are comfortable going into season with only those two at strong safety and I think they will look to add talent to the position in the draft.

Justin Simmons is a favorite among the Lions draft community. If he is available at pick 95 you’ll hear screaming from all over the state begging Quinn to hand in his draft card immediately.

I wrote an article about the type of defensive back that I thought Quinn would target, here. In my metrics breakdown, I determined that Simmons fit the profile better than any other safety in this draft class. His 3-cone (6.58) and Short Shuttle (3.85) times are on an elite level. Add in the fact that the Lions have interviewed or worked out Simmons at the East West Shrine Game, Combine, and at his Pro Day, tell me that he’s high on their radar.

Range, position flexibility, confident tackling and a nose for the ball are all traits Simmons excels at. Alex Reno compares him to Adrian Amos (Chicago Bears) in his evaluation, here. He notes that Simmons can line up all over the field and would be an excellent compliment to Glover Quin.

Next: Round 4

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