Detroit Lions 7-Round 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Setting The Foundation

Detroit Lions 7-Round 2022 NFL Mock Draft

The Detroit Lions are in the early stages of their current rebuild. The move of Matthew Stafford spelled what was long awaited, a complete tear down. Starting over at the quarterback position was the final straw for Detroit. Now, the front office is tasked with building this up from the ground level.

The good news is that they clearly have the assets to make it work. Detroit enters the 2022 NFL Draft with three picks in the first 34 selections and that’s just scratching the surface. In total, the Lions have eight picks this year and next year will be more of the same. The key is getting the right players in place to build this up. Best player available will work to some extent, but the players have to work in the system and be prepared for a bit of losing to start their careers.

Detroit Lions 7-Round 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1, Pick 2

It still wouldn’t be shocking to see the Detroit Lions trade out of the second overall pick. This could be highly coveted and bring a lot of capital to the Lions if they play their cards right. However, if they stay put they need a plan.

Aidan Hutchinson would be great, but odds are he’s going to the Jaguars with the first pick. The Lions are still going to need edge rushers regardless, so in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft they turn to a different option.

The second ranked edge rusher is a little foggy right now. However, one name that continues to climb draft boards is Travon Walker. Walker didn’t blow people away on the stat sheet with just 9.5 sacks over his entire collegiate career, but what makes Walker valuable is his ability to be effective in both parts of the game.

Walker’s stats in the pass rush were solid. His draft stock, though, is coming from what he can do against the run. His well-rounded attack and grittiness on the field should fit well with what Dan Campbell wants to do in Detroit.