Detroit Lions full 2021 mock draft: Two Tigers at the top

Jabril Cox

Selection #: Round 2 / 41st overall

Position: Linebacker

School: LSU

Height/Weight: 6-3 / 233

2020 statistics: 10 games, 65 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, 3 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, 1 defensive touchdown

Analysis: Well, the Lions scored a round earlier with an LSU alum, why not go back to the well? Fortunately, this selection addresses another significant need while not reaching too much in terms of value or positional need.

Cox only played one season for the Tigers, joining them in 2020 after four years playing for FCS powerhouse North Dakota State. It was a move that paid off for both parties, and he has firmly positioned himself as a promising talent at the second level of the defense.

His well-rounded game was on full display last season. He’s an instinctive player with an attacking style and a knack for making plays on the ball. Any time you can get three interceptions and 6.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage from an off-the-ball linebacker is a major plus for any defense.

He excels in coverage, a key trait for today’s pro linebackers. He has little trouble tracking tight ends and can make plays down the field. His experience in multiple schemes during his college years will serve him well at the next level, particularly in a Lions’ defense that will be going through multiple changes approaching next season.

Cox’s play strength won’t blow opponents away, and his run defense is nothing special. But his playmaking ability and versatility would be a solid addition to a unit that has been problematic in those areas for the Lions for way too long.