The Detroit Lions may address their need for depth in their pass rushing group through a draft-day trade. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine predicts the Lions will trade down to acquire more picks and land Ohio State edge rusher Jack Sawyer.
In a mock draft, Ballentine suggests the Lions will trade their No. 28 overall pick and the No. 246 pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for the No. 38 and No. 69 picks. This would put the Lions in position to select Sawyer, who Ballentine describes as a “poor man’s version of Aidan Hutchinson.”
Sawyer is touted for his toughness, physicality, and high motor. While he may lack ideal quickness and bend for the position, he is relentless when taking on blocks.
The Lions could also use their newly acquired No. 69 overall pick to select Texas A&M lineman Shemar Turner, who has the desired size and versatility to contribute right away.
The Lions have already made changes to their defensive line this offseason, hiring Kacy Rodgers as their new defensive line coach. Head coach Dan Campbell praised Rodgers, saying he’s a great addition to their coaching staff.