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

2021 Detroit Lions Mock Draft, Fifth Round (continued)

At pick number 171, the Detroit Lions select offensive tackle Josh Ball from Marshall University.

Ball is a transfer from Florida State who had some off-the-field issues while with the Seminoles. At Marshall, Ball improved greatly and displayed the skills necessary to develop into a starting right tackle in the NFL.

Ball’s huge frame, aggressive attitude, and use of good technique make him a very solid pick in the fifth round. He is a little stiff and his aggressiveness sometimes causes him to overextend, but he is an outstanding value in the fifth round, especially given his potential.

With one pick remaining in the draft for Detroit that is fast approaching, it all comes down to the best athlete or value.

At pick number 184 the Lions select Texas defensive tackle Ta’Quon Graham.

Graham is a former high school defensive end that was moved to tackle at Texas. He is athletic and plays to the whistle making plays all along the line of scrimmage. He is also Raw. He needs to develop more moves and better technique.

Graham didn’t shine as brightly as he could have since he played out of position at Texas. The longhorns used him in their 3-4 front, but in the NFL he is projected as a 4-3 tackle. The only question with the Lions taking him is what defense Detroit will run.

Yes, they will use multiple fronts, but if they favor a base 3-4 then Graham will be nothing more than a rotational player. However, his upside was too good to ignore.