Detroit Lions 7-round 2022 mock draft: Pre-NFL Combine edition

Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) reacts after a turnover on downs in the fourth quarter in during the College Football Playoff semifinal game at the 86th Cotton Bowl Classic, Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Cincinnati Bearcats, 27-6. /

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Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

Seventh Round

50. Connor Heyward. player. TE/FB. Michigan State. 232. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis

Heyward is not your garden variety fullback, with athleticism and pass catching skills that defy the position label. But he’s also more than a garden variety tight end, with the ability to run the ball when called upon (825 career rushing yards at Michigan State).

Heyward has NFL bloodlines, as the son of Craig “Ironhead” Heyward the brother of Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward. He’s also a Dan Campbell type of player, and a nice fit as a multi-purpose addition to the Lions offense.

Scouting Report. Nick Ford. player. 50. Pick Analysis. IOL. Utah. 240

Offensive line is not a top need for the Lions, but coming off a season where they never had their projected five together for a game depth is never a bad thing. Versatile depth is even better.

During his career at Utah Ford started at least one game at all five offensive line positions, albeit highly concentrated on the interior spots. Last season, he earned Pac-12 Offensive Lineman of the Week at both center and left guard. The two-time All-Pac 12 performer is an easy final pick flier for the Lions.

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