Detroit Lions 7-round 2021 NFL mock draft: Kenny Golladay tag and trade

Detroit Lions 2021 NFL mock draft: Round 3, 72nd overall

The Detroit Lions lack impact playmakers at linebacker and would be wise to invest in the position if the opportunity presents itself in the draft. In this 2021 NFL mock draft, the third round felt like the sweet spot at linebacker, with Jabril Cox standing tall as a strong fit for this team.

Cox is an extremely quick and athletic linebacker prospect who shows great natural on-field instincts. He is a perfect fit for the modern NFL, displaying fantastic speed and range at the position.

Cox primarily shines in coverage where he matches up well against most players in the middle of the field and also shows impressive ball skills for a linebacker. In Cox, the Lions find a potential big-time playmaker who can grow into an important long-term piece for this team at an obvious position of need.

Detroit Lions 2021 NFL mock draft: Round 3, 88th overall

Offensive tackle is not the largest need on the Lions’ roster this offseason, but it is a position that could use some attention. Taylor Decker should continue to be a stable force at left tackle, but the major investment in Halapoulivaati Vaitai last offseason looks to be a mistake. Vaitai struggled this past season but the Lions could cut bait with his relatively easy after the 2021 season if his struggles continue.

With this in mind, investing in a player who could grow into a viable starting right tackle option for the team would certainly make sense. D’Andre Smith primarily played on the left side in college, but his combination of length and athleticism at the offensive tackle position makes him an intriguing fit.

Smith needs to fill out his frame a bit more to have a successful NFL career, but his upside as a pass protector at the next level is absolutely massive. With the addition of Smith, the Lions swing for the fences at an extremely important position with their second third-round selection of this 2021 NFL mock draft.