SB Nation has released one last 2011 NFL mock draft. The final one before the 2011 NFL Draft begins on Thursday night has the Detroit Lions selecting Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith, who has been one of the most debated prospects this year. There are a number of concerns about Smith's past character problems, and whether or not the Lions would take him with the 13th overall pick could come down to those concerns.
SB Nation thinks Smith will be the pick because, despite his character problems, he is an "elite-level talent." With the right coaches in Detroit, the thinking is he could become a shutdown corner for the Lions and stay out of trouble.
Whatever ends up happening with Smith, I'm confident the Lions know what they're doing. They spent a lot of time doing their homework on Smith, both by bringing him in for a visit and talking to many people close to him. If the Lions feel the concerns don't make the gamble worth it, then they won't pick him. If they think his talent is too much to pass up, then he could be the pick if Prince Amukamara is off the board (which he is in SB Nation's mock).
SB Nation can get you ready for the 2011 NFL Draft with NFL mock drafts, draft projections, scouting reports, the full NFL Draft schedule and more. SB Nation will also have full coverage during the event at its NFL Draft hub and NFL Draft blog, Mocking The Draft. For more on the Detroit Lions, make sure to check out Pride Of Detroit and SB Nation Detroit's NFL Draft StoryStream.