Matt Miller, ESPN: Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota State
Why: The 6-6, 312-pound Zabel has the quickness, leverage and strength to play anywhere along the line. He had no issues jumping from the FCS to FBS-level competition at the Senior Bowl, consistently shutting down defensive linemen with grades in the top two rounds. Zabel would immediately start at guard in Detroit, with a long-term goal of being Frank Ragnow’s replacement at center.
Miller’s full 7-round mock draft
Mike Tannenbaum, ESPN: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Why: This would be a classic Detroit pick: A productive player with versatility from a big school. The Lions do have Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph patrolling the third level at safety, so Starks could sink down over the slot for now; he occasionally played there at Georgia. And after all the injuries we saw in Detroit last season, giving the defense more options wouldn’t be the worst move. Starks had six interceptions and 15 pass breakups over three college seasons.
Tannenbaum’s full mock
Bruce Feldman, The Athletic: Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M
Why: Detroit goes to Campbell’s alma mater to build back its D-line after injuries ravaged the unit in 2024. Shemar Stewart is an even freakier Aggie than Scourton, but the 6-3, 257-pound Scourton is the more polished and productive player. In 2023, while at Purdue — as a 19-year-old team captain — he led the Big Ten in sacks. He transferred close to home and earned first-team All-SEC honors with 14 TFLs and five sacks.
Feldman’s full mock
Tyler Dragon, USA Today: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M
Why: Aidan Hutchinson is coming off a season-ending leg injury. The Lions’ defense was ravaged by injuries this past season and needs more depth up front. Stewart has all the traits to be an impactful edge rusher.
Dragon’s full mock
Seth Quinn, Newsweek: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
Why: The Lions are in a similar spot and follow the same approach as the Ravens. Williams is another top-tier defender from Georgia who would be given plenty of time to develop on a contending Lions team.
Quinn’s full mock
