Mel Kiper at ESPN rolled out his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft on Wednesday. As has been the case with previous mock drafts, Kiper predicts the Lions to get some help at cornerback, upgrading their secondary as they prepare to make a run for the NFC North.
Kiper projects South Carolina CB Stephon Gilmore as the Lions' pick. His analysis:
Detroit could get into the mix for a cornerback during free agency -- Cortland Finnegan is a name that has come up often -- but I'd still be shocked if the Lions go two rounds without adding a corner. They have plenty of talent up front, and they need to turn their pass rush into more interceptions. Gilmore is a bigger corner, a guy that can handle big wide receivers, but he also doesn't lose much in terms of quickness. I can also see the Lions going O-line or linebacker here, but corner is a big need.
Tight on cap space, it might be difficult for Detroit to get in the mix for a top corner. Drafting a player with Gilmore's upside would do more to secure their place at the top of the NFC for seasons to come.
For more Lions coverage, check out Pride of Detroit. Complete 2012 NFL Draft analysis is available at Mocking the Draft.