NFL Draft 2017: Detroit Lions Seven-Round Mock Draft 2.0

First Round

There is no doubt the Lions have a need at linebacker and that has fueled talk about making a run at Dont’a Hightower in free agency. He would no doubt be an impact addition to a defense in sore need of impact players, but his price tag is expected to be in the range of $12 million per year.

Compare that to a first-year cap hit of just under $2 million for the Lions’ first round pick and trying to find their own Hightower through the draft could be more appealing. Of course, there is a difference between drafting a guy you hope is the next Hightower and signing the actual Hightower, but Vanderbilt’s Zach Cunningham drew the Hightower comparison from Pro Football Focus. They offered the following with the comparison:

"Hightower is big and physical, and has the versatility to play both inside and outside. He has been a productive player for New England not just against the run, but in coverage and as a pass-rusher as well, elements that Cunningham needs to develop further for his game but has the physical and athletic capacity to do."

Many have talked about wanting Bob Quinn to bring the “Patriot Way” to the Lions, but signing a big money contract to a player leaving the Patriots is the exact opposite of that. Cunningham is big, strong and athletic, offering a low cost alternative to the high price of free agency.

Next: Round 2