By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions appear to be zoning in on the trenches in the upcoming NFL Draft, and a recent seven-round mock draft from Justin Melo of The Draft Network reflects exactly that.
Holding the 28th overall pick in the first round, Detroit is widely expected to go after a defensive lineman. It’s no secret the Lions want to bolster their defensive front—and Melo’s mock aims to address that need right away.
In his analysis, Melo notes the Lions’ pressing need for a strong edge rusher to line up opposite Aidan Hutchinson, who is still recovering from a season-ending injury. Enter Mike Green—one of college football’s most explosive sack artists.
“The Lions desperately require a running mate for Hutchinson. His recovery from a season-ending injury exacerbates what was already an existing necessity,” Melo wrote. “Mike Green is a twitched-up pass rusher who enters the draft as one of college football’s most productive sack artists. Green possesses a deep pass-rushing repertoire that is pro-ready.”
Melo doesn’t stop there. With Detroit’s second selection at No. 60 overall in the second round, he lands a major steal in Tyler Booker—a player many see as having first-round talent.
The departure of right guard Kevin Zeitler, who signed with the Tennessee Titans in free agency, left a void in Detroit’s typically strong offensive line. According to Melo, Booker could fill that gap immediately.
“Tyler Booker would be a plug-and-play starter,” he explained. “Booker overwhelms opponents with raw power and strength, and his physical play style is an easy fit for Dan Campbell and the culture.”
The mock continues with Stanford wide receiver Elic Ayomanor in Round 3 (Pick 102), followed by USC cornerback Jaylin Smith in Round 4 (No. 130). In later rounds, Melo projects the Lions will grab linebacker Justin Barron from Syracuse (No. 196), Indiana offensive tackle Trey Wedig (No. 228), and Notre Dame tight end Mitchell Evans (No. 244).
From top to bottom, Melo’s mock draft seems designed to strengthen Detroit’s roster where it matters most—while staying true to the team’s identity and needs.