First Round Mock Draft: Free-Agency Changes

Nov 27, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) catches a pass against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) catches a pass against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Lions have a lot of beef up front defensively, now it’s time they draft some athleticism to with it.

Apparently, Haloti Ngata is returning for 2017 which is good news for Detroit, albeit temporary.

Detroit needs to find a guy to play inside next to A’Shawn Robinson for the long-term, and one who can pass rush would be ideal.

Malik McDowell from Michigan State fits the bill as a lineman who can play inside or out with success as long as the team can get the most out of their prospect.

He fills an immediate need as a situational pass rusher on the inside, but also sets them up for success when Ngata does call it a career. Which will likely be after this season.

There will be plenty of options at each defensive need this team has, but this one seems to be the most versatile on of all.

For the Lions to return to competing for the NFC North title, they’ll need to get younger and faster. McDowell is both.

Previously: Derek Barnett, DE – Tennessee