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

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Nov 12, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (40) looks into the backfield of the Arkansas Razorbacks during the third quarter of the game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

Fifth Round

The Lions’ long-term outlook at linebacker is weak enough that they could take Cunningham (or someone else) early in the draft and still consider another linebacker later in the draft. DeAndre Levy‘s long-term future is up in the air as injuries have kept him from producing at the level that earned him his big contract extension.

Tahir Whitehead didn’t inspire confidence in his ability to lock down the middle linebacker spot for the foreseeable future and guys like Josh Bynes and Jon Bostic are just stopgaps if they are brought back. Unless the Lions make a big move in free agency, the linebacker depth chart could use some restocking.

It took a while for Duke Riley to get his chance at major playing time at LSU but he played well last season when it finally came. Limited playing time and average athleticism means he’s unlikely to go before the middle rounds but he could be the kind of prospect that has more to offer than he’s had a chance to show, particularly as he develops with more opportunities.

Next: Round 6

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