Detroit Lions Sign Edge Rusher in Recent ESPN Mock Draft

Based on their performance in the 2023 regular season and projected postseason success, the Detroit Lions will most likely choose in the late first round of the next NFL choose.

Detroit will have needs on the defensive side of the ball, including cornerback, defensive line interior, and another pass rusher to supplement Aidan Hutchinson.

Aaron Glenn’s defense missed having James Houston beside Hutchinson throughout the season, as the pass rush was spotty at times. Houston exploded onto the limelight last season, recording eight sacks after making his debut on Thanksgiving. Jordan Reid, an ESPN draft expert, has the Lions selecting Washington Huskies edge rusher Bralen Trice at No. 28 overall in his latest mock selection.

“The Lions’ culture is based on toughness, physicality, and perseverance.” Trice is the only prospect in this class who checks all three requirements.

“His game revolves around power, and he generated first pressure on an FBS-high 71 plays this season,” writes Reid. “Trice also never leaves the field, displaying a level of effort that is sure to catch the attention of GM Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell.” “With seven sacks in 2023, he could serve as a complementary pass-rusher to Aidan Hutchinson, allowing James Houston to stay fresh in a designated pass-rushing role once healthy.”

Trice had 78 pressures and an 86.1 Pro Football Focus defensive grade in 2023.

Trice was voted the team’s Defensive Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive season at the team’s postseason awards dinner. The Huskies made a deep run in the College Football Playoffs before falling to the Michigan Wolverines, 34-13, on Monday evening at NRG Stadium.