For Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes to truly win the 2021 NFL Draft, he absolutely must find a way to trade the No. 7 overall pick to the highest bidder, who will likely move up to select a quarterback.
According to draft ‘guru’ Mel Kiper in his latest ‘dueling mock draft’ with Todd McShay, the Lions will not only trade the No. 7 overall pick but they will get an absolute haul in return.
Kiper has the Lions trading the No. 7 overall pick to the New England Patriots for the No. 15 overall pick, the No. 46 overall pick, and “future selections, maybe even their first-rounder in next year’s draft.”
Here is what Kiper has to say about the potential trade:
We needed a trade for a quarterback — they happen every year — so I’m going to make one with myself since I’m the general manager of the odd-numbered teams. This deal sees the Patriots jump eight spots to get their guy, while the Lions add the Patriots’ second-round pick (No. 46), plus future selections, maybe even their first-rounder in next year’s draft. It’s a lot to give up, but Bill Belichick & Co. need a long-term solution at the game’s most important position.
With the No. 15 overall pick, Kiper has the Lions selecting LB Micah Parsons out of Penn State.
Detroit trades down to pick up extra assets and still gets an impact defensive player. Parsons is a playmaker who will run down tailbacks and pitch in as a pass-rusher.
If Brad Holmes somehow manages to trade the No. 7 overall pick to the Patriots, still land the best defensive player in the draft, and get the Patriots second-round pick in 2021 and their first-round pick in 2022, Lions fans should throw a parade.
