Detroit Lions NFL draft 3.0: 7-rounds, beyond the mock

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 11: Godwin Igwebuike #16 of the Northwestern Wildcats blocks a pass intended for Maxx Williams #88 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the game on October 11, 2014 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 11: Godwin Igwebuike #16 of the Northwestern Wildcats blocks a pass intended for Maxx Williams #88 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the game on October 11, 2014 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
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Cole is among the most versatile linemen available
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MARCH 01: Michigan offensive lineman Mason Cole speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

Round 4 (pick 117)

Offensive line: Mason Cole, center, Brandon Parker, tackle

Defensive line: Kylie Fitts, end, Trent Thompson, tackle,

Backs & receivers: Ian Thomas, tight end, Kurt Benkert, quarterback, Royce Freeman, running back

Linebackers: Shaq Griffin, outside

Defensive backs: Duke Dawson, cornerback, Rashaan Gaulden, corner-safety

Commentary

Due to the fact that I hadn’t selected an offensive lineman, I had to find one with upside and versatility. Mission accomplished.

Otherwise, not a ton of guys I love in the fourth. Griffin would bring some speed to the linebackers, Freeman is about the last of the running backs that I like well. I never end up with a defensive tackle, but I put offensive guard/tackle ahead of defensive due to free agent signings. The defensive line is simply in better shape, depth-wise, than the other side of the ball.

My Pick: Mason Cole, offensive lineman, Cole has played center and left tackle. He brings versatility, experience, and production. His natural fit is inside but he could play outside, too. It’s hard to wait this long for a tight end, if Quinn wants one; the pool is pretty dry by round four.

Schedule