Lions Build 'Elite' Safety Duo in ESPN Latest Mock Draft

Mel Kiper and Field Yates attempted to project the top 100 picks.

Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Javon Bullard (22) / Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Lions were able to land defensive back Brian Branch in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

His impact on Detroit's defense was felt immediately, as the former Alabama Crimson Tide defender recorded an interception in the season-opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on the road.

In their latest 2024 NFL Draft projection, ESPN draft analysts Mel Kiper and Field Yates attempted to project the first 100 picks.

For the Lions, having picks No. 29, No. 61 and No. 73 provides general manager Brad Holmes an opportunity to bolster a defensive unit that still needs more impact players.

Kiper ended up making all the picks for Detroit, as the analysts took turns making their projections.

With their first pick, ESPN has the Lions targeting Darius Robinson, a player that impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl.

"Robinson was unblockable at Senior Bowl practices in early February. He is a bit of a tweener, and he might be better as a 3-technique tackle. He could play some snaps at end in Detroit."

With their pick in the second round, Detroit targets Georgia Bulldogs safety Javon Bullard, a player working his way up many draft boards.

"I recently picked Bullard, my top-ranked safety, in our big superteams draft. He can do it all," writes Kiper. "The Lions landed Brian Branch in Round 2 last year, and they could build an elite duo with these two."

Pittsburgh Panthers wideout Bub Means was the pick at No. 73, a player Kiper believes excelled at the combine.

"Means was one of my combine risers in February. He has big hands and long arms, and he ran a 4.43-second 40 in Indianapolis. He also was productive in college, leading the ACC with 18 contested catches in 2023."