Testing is starting at the NFL Scouting Combine which means players value and how teams perceive them. Players who were expected in round one may rise or fall, names we haven’t seen mocked in round one may finally see their name early.
As always the NFC North holds the key to this entire NFL draft class. The Bears have their two top ten picks, the Vikings select 11th, and the Packers and Lions pick up the slack on the back end after strong seasons.
The names attached to the division are most of which we have seen before but the Lions do have a new name added to the mix. Here is how Mel Kiper’s latest mock draft shook out for the NFC North.
Chicago Bears
Selections
- Caleb Williams, Quarterback, USC
- Malik Nabers, Wide Receiver, LSU
Impact of Picks on the Lions
This is the second time we have seen this combo in the past few weeks being sent to Chicago. This is a dream scenario for the Bears and a nightmare for the Lions. Williams would be in Chicago with Nabers, D.J. Moore, and Cole Kmet around him and they would be able to pass against anyone. The entire NFC North has pass-defense issues but the Lions especially need to address this Spring and Summer if this is what Chicago does.
Green Bay Packers
Selections
- Jordan Morgan, OL, Arizona
Impact of Pick on the Lions
Morgan came in smaller than people expected but he still has the ability to stay outside and play tackle. He could have a hard time handling the size and speed of NFL defenders. This could be a benefit to the Lions in this instance but if they move Morgan inside then he could be seeing him during up-running lanes which could cause problems for the Lions.
Minnesota Vikings
Selections
- Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State
Impact of Pick on the Lions
The Detroit Lions have a very solid offensive line at the tackle spots which makes it not too concerning to see an edge player in the mix. Verse is a very talented player and should be a very good pro but I don’t see him causing anything severe in terms of game-changing ability against the Lions.
Detroit Lions
Selections
- T.J. Tampa, Cornerback, Iowa State
Impact of Pick on the Lions
We mentioned above that the Lions need some help in the pass defense game and they get a new name thrown into the mix of finding a solution. T.J. Tampa is a long, rangy cornerback who has the ball skills to be exactly what the Lions need at corner. They lacked the ability to generate turnovers went they needed it, but Tampa is someone who could help turn that around. Love this pick for the Lions as they look to repeat as NFC North champions.