Charles Harris (DE) – Missouri or Taco Charlton (DE) – Michigan
Ziggy Ansah should be back to his old self in 2017 and there is no doubt about it that Kerry Hyder played over his head in 2016 at the defensive end position, but overall, the Detroit Lions did not put enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Because of that, opposing quarterbacks completed 72.7% of their passes, which just so happens to be an NFL record for the worst completion % ever allowed by a defense over the course of a full season.
Personally, I do not believe that Hyder is a top-end DE in the league and either signing one in free agency or selecting one in the draft will be a priority for Bob Quinn.
Both Charles Harris and Taco Charlton should be available when the Lions select at No. 21 and it would be a mistake if they do not strongly consider taking one of the two. Harris is entering the draft early and there is little question that he is ready to take the next step after leading the Missouri defense by racking up nine sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 2016. Charlton is big, fast, and relentless on defense. Not only does he have the quickness to get to the quarterback, but he does a good job stopping the run.
UP NEXT: Calling all linebackers!
