Detroit Lions: Lowering the boom in my first and last 2021 mock draft

2021 Detroit Lions Mock Draft,  First Round

In this simulation, the top four quarterbacks went in order with the first four picks. Penei Sewell followed and I felt it was in my best interest to trade back. When the Lions turn came at seven the Arizona Cardinals offered me the 16th overall pick as well as their second-round selection, number 49 for the seventh pick.

I countered by offering the seventh pick in exchange for the 16th and 49th overall as they had approached me with and tried to sweeten the haul by asking for their fifth-round pick, number 160 overall as well.

Apparently, the compu-Cardinals were pretty determined to get the seventh pick because they agreed to my counter offer.

After slipping back to the 16th selection while adding two more picks, I watched in anticipation for who would be available when the Lions were on the clock.

Ironically, when Detroit was back on the clock the Steelers came calling with an offer. However, there was a premium player on the board still that fits a big need for the Lions and the gain of one extra pick to move back to number 24 wasn’t worth it to me.

After declining Pittsburgh’s offer, I wasted little time.

The Detroit Lions with the 16th overall pick selected Penn State linebacker, Micah Parsons.

For me personally, I do have concerns about Micah not playing last season, but considering his play-making ability and intensity, I was willing to gamble on his ability to become a defensive force in the NFL.

I also won’t be overly concerned if his rookie campaign is mediocre while he gets his feet under him because the Lions won’t be ready for a playoff run yet and I’m wagering he will have his feet under him by his second season as he develops into the player I believe he will become.

Having added additional picks and still been able to get one of the top players on my board, I start to prepare for my two selections in the second round.