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

It seems like ages ago, but there once was a time where defensive tackle Marvin Wilson was on the way to becoming a top-10 pick. What happened? When I compare his film from 2019 to 2020, it appears that Florida State’s defensive front made a change from a three-front to a four-front. And we saw Wilson playing more 5-tech than he should be.

That’s not to say the scheme change was his only issue. Wilson has poor technique and relies on his upper body strength to win his matchups, which causes problems when he gets double-teamed.

However, and this might seem unconventional, but I’d place him as the 0/1-tech (nose tackle) in Detroit. In a presumed change to a 3-4 pass rushing front, he’d be starting next to defensive lineman Trey Flowers and Micheal Brockers. Allowing him to have one-on-one battles with the center. At the same time, you progress his technique throughout the year to the point where you could confidently play him at a 3-tech.

My NFL comparison back in 2019 was Kenny Clark, who plays both nose tackle and defensive tackle for the Green Bay Packers. I still believe that can be a possibility for Marvin Wilson, given the right situation.

When you enter the later rounds, most teams that are competing look for depth. However, rebuilding teams should look for development players who have the upside to become a starter. When linebacker Cameron McGrone took over as the starting MIKE for the Michigan Wolverines, he instantly became a fan favorite.

In 2019 he totaled 66 tackles, 4.0 sacks, and one forced fumble. When 2020 came around, his play dropped slightly. An upper-body injury sidelined him as well, but he eventually opted out of the season.

As a blitzer, on stunts and against the run, he’s effective. He’s also capable of shallow zone coverage. In time I can see him becoming a solid pass coverage linebacker. For now, he could learn under linebackers Jamie Collins and Alex Anzalone.