It is time for another seven-round mock draft at All Lions. Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes currently has seven draft picks, including two third-round picks. He’s anticipated to
make a determined effort to improve the defense in April (April 25-27). Without further ado, I present my second 2024 seven-round mock draft for the Lions. Round 1, Pick 13 (via trade with the Las Vegas Raiders): CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama The Lions begin the 2024 draft by trading up from the No. 29 overall pick to obtain their No. 1 cornerback. In this scenario, Holmes also trades Detroit’s first-of-two third-round picks (73rd overall) to acquire this pick.
Arnold, who played three seasons for the Crimson Tide (redshirted in 2021), possesses all of the physical tools to be a top-tier cornerback at the next level. In 2023, he had an excellent stat line with five interceptions, 17 passes defensed, a forced fumble, a sack, and 63 total stops, including 6.5 for loss. Additionally, in 471 coverage snaps last season, he allowed a passer rating of only 50.7. He was also an excellent run defender, earning a 90.6 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus.
For his efforts, he received first-team All-American recognition from the Associated Press and an overall score of 88.4 from PFF. I have no doubt that he would have an immediate impact on Detroit’s secondary. Round 2: Pick 61 – EDGE Marshawn Kneeland of Western Michigan The Grand Rapids, Michigan native has recently seen his stock climb (and for good reason).
Throughout his five seasons with the Broncos, the Senior Bowl standout was a highly effective run defender as well as a persistent, adept pass rusher. Kneeland demonstrated the ability to line up at several positions (including EDGE and downhill linebacker) and play every down while at Western Michigan.
During his final season at Kalamazoo, the 6-foot-3, 275-pounder recorded 57 total stops, including 7.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Kneeland, in my opinion, would make an excellent EDGE counterpart to Aidan Hutchinson. Round 3: Pick 92 – DT Braden Fiske of Florida State I’ve been intrigued with Fiske, a high-motor, ferocious interior defensive lineman, throughout this mock draft season.
During his NCAA career, which began at Western Michigan, he established himself as an effective run-stopper and pass-rusher. He redshirted in 2018, then spent four seasons with the Broncos (2019-2022) before transferring to Florida State for his final season. In his only season with the Seminoles, the 6-foot-5, 300-pounder recorded 43 total tackles, nine for loss, and six sacks. I believe Fiske would complement Alim McNeill on the interior of Detroit’s defensive line.
Related: What Increased Salary Cap Means for Lions Round 5, Pick 162 – WR Cornelius Johnson of Michigan With this pick, the Lions add much-needed depth to their wide receiver corps.
