clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

NFL mock draft 2013: Could the Lions select another defensive lineman?

New, 1 comment

The Lions have selected a defensive lineman in the first round in two of the last three years. Could they make it three in four years this year?

Thomas Campbell-US PRESSWIRE

Between high draft picks and high-priced free agents, the Lions have invested a lot in their defensive line. That could increase this season as Detroit is projected to select a defensive lineman in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.

In SB Nation's latest mock draft the Lions are projected to take Texas A&M defensive end Damontre Moore with the fifth pick in the draft. It would be the third time in four years the Lions have selected a defensive lineman in the first round. Detroit used the No. 2 pick in 2010 to select Ndamukong Suh, then picked Nick Fairley with the No. 13 pick in 2011.

The Lions currently have Cliff Avril and Kyle Vanden Bosch at defensive end, but Moore could make an impact as soon as next season. Avril will be a free agent this offseason and even if he does return, Vanden Bosch is 34-years-old and nearing the end of his career. Moore could also be a spark for a Detroit pass rush which finished 20th in sacks this season. Moore recorded 12.5 sacks during his junior season and had 26-1/2 sacks during his three-year college career.

If the mock draft holds true, Moore would be the third defender to come off the board. Defensive tackle Star Lotulelei and defensive end Bjoern Werner are projected as the No. 2 and No. 3 picks.