Todd McShay Has Lions Selecting DL, CB in Latest Mock Draft

Detroit Lions select DL, CB in latest 2023 mock draft.

Now that the attention has turned to the NFL offseason, pundits and draft experts have started to release the latest editions of their mock drafts. 

In Todd McShay's latest 2023 NFL mock draft following the Super Bowl, Detroit general manager Brad Holmes is selecting at No. 6 overall (via the Rams) and at No. 18 overall.

With the No. 6 overall pick, the Lions add Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Myles Murphy. 

"I think Detroit sticks with Jared Goff and uses this pick on a porous defensive unit. I considered a cornerback, but Murphy has a much higher grade than my CB1 -- and the defense needs support at multiple positions. It couldn't stop anyone last season, allowing a league-high 6.2 yards per play," McShay explains. "Adding Murphy's speed off the edge to a group that already includes 2022 first-rounder Aidan Hutchinson and surprise rookie standout James Houston immediately moves the defense forward.

"Something else to watch for here: I wouldn't be surprised if Detroit slides down the board, picking up additional draft capital from a team looking to nab a quarterback. The Lions already have a second first-rounder, too."

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With the second of two first-round picks, Detroit adds to its secondary by drafting Georgia Bulldogs cornerback Kelee Ringo. 

McShay explains, "We mentioned that the Lions might be thinking cornerback at No. 6 (ended up with a defensive end in Murphy), but they get one here with their second first-rounder at the tail end of a mini run at the position. Ringo is the fourth CB to come off the board in five picks. There will be a lot of opinions about his game, but Ringo has a lot of upside. He has speed and length, and he's very good in press coverage. 

"Plus, he hauled in two interceptions in each of his seasons at Georgia. Jeff Okudah has flashed the traits that made him the No. 3 pick in 2020, but even if he takes the next step, Amani Oruwariye is a free agent, leaving the other outside corner spot wide open."

A review of Ringo's film shows a quick defensive back with the length that Detroit defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn will find appealing. 

In 2022, Ringo recorded 42 total tackles, two interceptions and  seven pass breakups. The talented defensive back also earned second-team All-SEC honors. 

At 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, the former Bulldogs cornerback will be among the youngest cornerbacks coming out this year.