20. Detroit Lions
-Robert Ayers (DE/Tennessee)
- Robert Ayers (NFL.com)
I expect to see Detroit use this draft to build the trenches just like Bill Parcells did last year. This assumption may not be as far off base as you might expect. So, how about we look at the similarities between Mayhew and Parcells’ situations.
Last season the Dolphins had 3 of the first 33 draft choices. Parcells emphasized the need to draft their first player prior to the draft. This led to LT Jake Long being selected. With their other 1st round selection they chose a defensive end. With their first pick of the 2nd round, they selected the 3rd best quarterback available, then proceeded to use the rest of the draft to build the offensive and defensive lines. Sounding familiar?
Now, the Lions have 3 of the top 33 picks. Their GM made it clear as day that he wants to sign the #1 pick prior to the draft. He also emphasized building the trenches in the draft. Finally, Detroit has shown great interest in the top offensive tackles, and they were also one of about 5 teams in attendance at #3 QB candidate Josh Freeman’s pro day workout. So, what does this all mean?
If my hypothesis is correct, then you might see an offensive tackle selected #1, then a defensive lineman with the #20 pick. Finally, Josh Freeman would be targeted with their 33rd pick, if he is still available.
Mayhew is a smart guy, and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see him imitate the master franchise builder, Bil Parcells.
Assuming Detroit follows the Parcells plan, they will look for another pass rusher to challenge Cliff Avril for playing time at RE. Detroit’s sack totals were a respectable 16th in the league (30 sacks). But by no means should this make them content. New defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham loves pressuring the quarterback, so adding another pass rusher makes sense, especially one coming from Tennessee’s illustrious program.
Robert Ayers is a great pass rusher who possesses the frame to get bigger. He had a tremendous Senior Bowl, but he carries some level of uncertainty. Ayers did a great job this season, absolutely dominating Andre Smith, but only broke into the starting line up this season. If he continues to blossom, he might become one of the best ends in this class.
-Brandon Pettigrew (TE/Oklahoma St)
- Brandon Pettigrew (NFL.com)
If the Lions draft Matthew Stafford first, or if they want to address the offense in round 1, then there is no better player available than Brandon Pettigrew. Former Lions TE Dan Campbell couldn’t manage to stay healthy, which left the Lions without a big target on underneath routes.
Make no mistake about it, Pettigrew would immediately impact the Lions offense in a handful of ways. He isn’t quite the flashy player that Jared Cook or Chase Coffman will be. However, he is a blocking extraordinaire, who became just about the only player to shut down Brian Orakpo this season. What Detroit gets from Pettigrew is a huge red zone target with massive hands, and an extra offensive tackle (he blocks about as well as some tackles). If you are looking for a comparison, think Jason Witten.
Coach Schwartz learned the importance of a solid tight end in Tennessee. Bo Scaife was able to contribute to the run game, and he was one of Kerry Collins’ favorite targets.
Final note: I am assuming Michael Oher will have been chosen already. James Laurinaitis is a possibility here.
Next on the clock: Philadelphia Eagles
See the rest of this Hybrid Mock Draft here
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Your argument makes sense, and I truly believe that both of these players would give the Lions a big boost. I wonder if they’d realistically expect Freeman to be available at 33. Of course, if they decide they want Stafford at #1, this could be an offensive lineman. With lots of picks and plenty of holes to fill, Detroit should get several starters out of this draft regardless.
well Freeman might not last til 33, as you said. They can hope he falls, or maybe they trade back into the first, or select him at 20. But I have a theory that they follow the general guideline set by Parcells. Its getting harder and harder to figure out scenarios the farther I get along in this exercise. I am not sure there will be any left tackles worth taking at 20. Oher could be gone, and J smith and monroe are LOOONG gone. Andre wouldnt play left tackle for Detroit, nor would Eben Britton. That leaves William Beatty as the only other guy. Ive read Beatty has some big flaws (needs to get bigger, should work on his run blocking skills, does he have the passion for the game, doesnt really work out much, etc). So Im not sure the Lions could get a quality tackle at 20 without reaching mightily.
Also, I have a feeling that Detroit will try to sign Jay Cutler before the draft. They are making an effort to fill whatever holes they have before the draft. That way, they arent trapped into selecting a specific position too early, allowing them to get the best player available, instead of reaching for need.