There are few certainties in life, but we can all expect death, taxes, and Brad Holmes being (mostly) unpredictable during the NFL Draft.
Although he has a type, which I tried to identify here in the Brad Holmes Draft Checklist post, that type often conflicts with traditional opinions on how teams draft. While other teams draft to fill needs, Brad doesn't consider the current depth chart when making picks. Front offices and draft experts preach that teams need to prioritize positional value; Brad Holmes prioritizes finding Pro Bowl and All-Pro talent.
Here is my attempt at putting on my Brad Holmes hat and picking the best player availbale at each of the Lions seven draft picks. While it's unlikely that a single pick I made will come to fruition, I believe each of the players listed below are on Holmes' draft board and in consideration. View the full list of picks with a brief description of why I think each player could be a fit for the Lions below.
Jer’Zhan Newton (DL, Illinois): Jer'Zhan (Johnny) Newton embodies the toughness, attitude, production, and even the positional versatility the Lions look for in a prospect. He can contribute as a role player in his rookie season and the Lions have shown strong interest in Johnny, meeting with him twice. We'll know Thursday if Johnny makes it to pick #29 or not, but if he does and the Lions stay put, I would not be surprised if his name is called.
T.J. Tampa (CB, Iowa State): After getting early buzz as a potential first-rounder, T.J. Tampa is now expected to be around when the Lions make their second pick. Tampa is physical, tall, and has a high football IQ. While the Lions haven't visited with Tampa, the value is here and he matches enough of what the Lions look for to be in consideration. If there's one selection to pick apart in my mock draft, it's probably this one.
If the Lions do not select Newton in the first round, a possibility here is Clemson DT Ruke Orhorhoro, who they have met with and are likely to love.
Blake Fisher (T, Notre Dame): Blake Fisher would be an absolute no-brainer here at pick #73. I believe PFF's big board may be glitching, but there are players every year that fall further than expected. Blake has all the tools needed to start in the NFL for 10 years, and he's only 21. He just needs a smart and patient OL coach to guide him, which the Lions have in Hank Fraley.
Zak Zinter (G, Michigan): What would a Brad Holmes draft class be without an injured player? Zinter was a sure-fire day 2 pick before breaking his tibia and fibula against Ohio State. Zinter is a "grit" type of guy, and was a unanimous All-America selection. The talent, production, and mindset are all there, he just needs to heal, and the Lions have plenty of time to let him heal.
Tip Reiman (TE, Illinois): With the new kickoff rule, the league is changing, and so will the roster. As we've seen in the offseason, teams are placing more value in their TE2 and even TE3, and it's entirely possible that the Lions will carry four tight ends on their roster in 2024. Reiman is a willing blocker, and could be a special team blocker with plenty of upside for the future.
Frank Gore Jr. (RB, Southern Miss): Brad Holmes and company love building depth on the roster, and at the running back position, injuries are a certainty. Frank Gore Jr. is a durable, capable back who could stick on this roster and compete for the RB3 spot.
Omar Brown (S, Nebraska): There is a lot to love about Omar Brown, especially if he's available in the 7th round. Brown is versatile, athletic, and not afraid to contribute against the run. He could contribute on special teams and eventually earn snaps at safety.
Happy draft week everyone! #Onepride!
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