Detroit, Michigan – As mock drafts circulate during the offseason, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah and ESPN’s Matt Miller engaged in conference calls this week to share insights on prospects and draft strategies. The focus was not only on players fitting into team rosters but also aligning with the established culture of different NFL teams.
Detroit Lions media have a significant presence in these meetings, generating discussions around players who embody the team’s vision and mentality. Both Jeremiah and Miller highlighted the Lions’ focused approach in building a team with a clear identity.
One player who stood out as a potential fit for the Lions was Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw. Miller praised Rakestraw for his physicality and ability to excel at the line of scrimmage, making him a top contender for the Lions’ draft pick.
While Rakestraw’s stock rises in the draft community, projections place him around the end of the first round, close to the Lions’ pick at No. 29 overall. Both Jeremiah and Miller identified Rakestraw as a player who embodies the feistiness and toughness that align perfectly with Detroit’s culture.
In Jeremiah’s mock draft, Rakestraw was selected earlier, leading to the pairing of the Lions with West Virginia Center Zach Frazier. Described as a wrestler with a physical playing style, Frazier was seen as another ideal fit for the Lions’ team culture.
The possibility of the Lions trading up for Rakestraw or other prospects was also discussed. Jeremiah expressed openness to such moves, especially for top cornerbacks like Terrion Arnold, praising their physicality, athleticism, and fit with Detroit’s playing style.
Further discussions centered on potential draft targets for the Lions, including Missouri defender Darius Robinson, drawing comparisons to Saints defender Cam Jordan. As the draft approaches, general manager Brad Holmes’ success in previous drafts puts the Lions in a strong position to select the best player for the team regardless of draft position.
With a foundation built on successful draft picks, the Lions have the flexibility to pursue players who best suit their established culture and playing style. The upcoming draft presents an opportunity for the Lions to continue strengthening their roster and pursuing players who align with their vision for the team.