Evaluating Lions Mock Drafts from Todd McShay, Mel Kiper and Peter Schrager

A new wave of mock drafts has been released by ESPN and the NFL Network.

As the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, pundits are releasing their latest projections, big boards and mock drafts. 

The NFL Network's Peter Schrager typically releases two mock drafts every year. His first mock draft typically is comprised of what he has been hearing from his sources. 

With the sixth overall pick, the Detroit Lions target Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Jalen Carter. 

Schrager explained that Carter is an "elite player whose off-field/character questions could be a red flag for some teams. Carter met with Detroit on Monday. The thought of this defensive tackle joining last year's No. 2 overall pick, Aidan Hutchinson, is quite intriguing -- two blue-chip talents on one defensive line."

With the second of two first-round picks, Schrager has the Lions targeting cornerback Joey Porter Jr. 

"The Lions loaded up on DB talent in free agency, but they could still be in the market for a top corner prospect if they pass on Christian Gonzalez and Devon Witherspoon at No. 6," Schrager explained. "Porter can hang with both of those other cats and could still be on the board when Detroit comes back on the clock at No. 18. Tough mentality -- a real Aaron Glenn/Dan Campbell type of guy."

While Schrager is well connected in the league, his first projection is dependent on the Colts moving up to No. 2 to select quarterback C.J. Stroud. 

In the end, Carter's red flags could prevent him from being targeted by Detroit, as the front office and coaching staff value character (both on and off the field). 

It’s here. @PSchrags Mock Draft 1.0 is out. Have at it. pic.twitter.com/CgbxSVNXOH

— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) April 18, 2023

Todd McShay and Mel Kiper projected the first three rounds via their latest combined mock draft. 

Similar to many projections, defensive linemen Tyree Wilson and Calijah Kancey are the picks in the first round. 

Detroit targets offensive players with two of its next three selections, though, selecting running back Jahmyr Gibbs and tight end Luke Schoonmaker. Meanwhile, linebacker Drew Sanders is the choice at No. 55. 

Tyree Wilson is a question mark for many pundits. His film shows a pass-rusher that needs more seasoning when he arrives to the NFL. 

Kancey's size has been the topic of debate over the past few weeks, as many are questioning if his comparison to Aaron Donald has been exaggerated. 

Both may not be all that accurate with their mock drafts. Detroit's front office could target a defensive back with the No. 6 pick. Cornerbacks Devon Witherspoon and Christian Gonzalez have been gaining buzz in the past few days. 

McShay-Kiper mock draft

• DE Tyree Wilson (Pick No. 6)
• DL Calijah Kancey (Pick No. 18)
• RB Jahmyr Gibbs (Pick No. 48)
• ILB Drew Sanders (Pick No. 55)
• TE Luke Schoonmaker (Pick No. 81)

Schrager mock draft

• Jalen Carter (Pick No. 6)
• Joey Porter Jr. (Pick No. 18)