Lions 2021 NFL Draft: 7-round mock with a late round trade

With the draft in a few more days, I wanted to squeeze out one more Detroit Lions mock draft for everyone to enjoy. Before we get into anything, just a few notes.

I had done the first six picks manually based on what I think each team should do. The rest was done by a mock draft simulator in which I selected the Lions picks. Here they are:

Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawerence, QB, Clemson
New York Jets: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
San Francisco 49ers: Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State
Denver Broncos (Via Atlanta Falcons): Justin Fields. QB, Ohio State
Cincinnati Bengals: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon
Miami Dolphins: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

Instead of predicting what Detroit will do, I decided it would be more fun to take a personal approach. The selections made are based on what I would do if I were the general manager of the Lions.

Now on to Detroit’s selection…

I know, boring, but boring wins in the NFL. In my eyes, offensive lineman Rashawn Slater is on par with offensive tackle Penei Sewell. We’re looking at a player who is effective in both pass protection and run blocking. In 2019, Slater didn’t allow a sack and only surrendered four quarterback hurries, as well as one quarterback hit in 355 pass-block snaps. A very fluid blocker who’d fit offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn’s zone run scheme perfectly, whether it is at guard or tackle.

Slater gives Detroit flexibility, especially with his ability to play all five spots on the offensive line. It also allows head coach Dan Campbell a chance to properly evaluate both guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai and tackle Tyrell Crosby without the added pressure of playing everyone in their natural position.