Detroit Lions 2018 NFL Draft: Full seven round mock

PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 01: Lorenzo Carter #7 of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrates after blocking the field goal attempt from Austin Seibert #43 of the Oklahoma Sooners in the 2018 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual at the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

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AUBURN, AL – NOVEMBER 25: Da’Ron Payne #94 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts after recovering a fumble during the first quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images /

1st Round, 20th Overall Selection

*Da’Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama***

During his time with the Crimson Tide, Payne was a run stopper extraordinaire and his most dominant performances came when the lights shone brightest. Do yourself a favor and revisit the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship if you have any doubts.

With this selection, the Lions would immediately address their need of stopping the run.

Payne’s impressive blend of strength and speed upfront, reunited with his former Alabama running mate, A’Shawn Robinson, and Detroit could have the making of a monstrous defensive line the likes of which haven’t been seen since a certain someone took his talents to South Beach.

Matt Patricia also recently hired former Alabama defensive line coach, Bo Davis, to the same position for Detroit. The Lions’ connections to the Crimson Tide could make Payne’s selection a natural fit.

Honorable Mentions:

Vita Vea, Defensive Tackle, Washington
Maurice Hurst, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA

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