NFC North: Team Needs for the 2019 NFL Draft

Detroit Lions

Needs: TE, CB, FS, SS, Pass Rusher

After several disappointing seasons, the Lions cut tight end, Eric Ebron. Ebron went to the Indianapolis Colts and established himself as one of the best tight ends in the league. He was even recently selected to the Pro Bowl.

Although this is fantastic for Ebron, it has to sting for Detroit. They still have a hole at tight end and should address it in the draft. Levine Toilolo has led the way at tight end with only 220 yards. The Lions may be hesitant to spend another high first round pick on a tight end, but Noah Fant from Iowa is one of the best tight end prospects available from the last few years and would be an immediate weapon for the passing game.

Detroit’s secondary has been porous. Safety Glover Quin has had a down season. Teez Tabor possesses upside at cornerback, but he still has a long way to go to even be playable. Darius Slay is the one starter who has been above average. Adding a player like Deionte Thompson makes sense, especially if it means keeping the playmaking safety away from divisional rival Green Bay.

The pass rush has not been much better. Ezekiel Ansah has only four sacks this season, and his Pro Bowl season is looking like a fluke. It is likely that Ansah hits free agency, and the Lions will need to find a pass rusher. Brian Burns, Josh Allen, and Jachai Polite could all be options, but don’t rule out Michigan defensive lineman Rashan Gary.

Jarrad Davis, Da’Shawn Hand, Romeo Okwara, A’Shawn Robinson have been the lone bright spots on Detroit’s defense, and they should try to select the best defensive player available on draft day. The Lions could catapult to the top of the NFC North if they are able to add some playmakers on defense.