Todd McShay 2012 NFL Mock Draft: 4 Reasons Upshaw Is Wrong for Detroit Lions

On April 12, ESPN released Todd McShay's fifth NFL mock draft, which included the Detroit Lions selecting Alabama defensive end Courtney Upshaw with the No. 23 pick.

Upshaw is one of the most unique prospects in the draft with his build and style of play. The Alabama product is a physical specimen capable of disrupting any offensive game plan. After a productive senior season with 52 tackles, 9.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss, it's hard to argue that Upshaw won't be a quality NFL player. 

Upshaw is without a doubt a first-round talent, and can play in the NFL right away—in certain systems. He should be available around the time of the Lions' first-round selection.

However, Martin Mayhew should be in no rush to pull the trigger on Upshaw with the Lions' first pick. Here are four reasons why Detroit should not draft Upshaw.

1. Bigger Areas of Concern

Unless you missed the second half of the Lion's season including the playoffs, it's no mystery that the secondary is the weak link of the Detroit defense. After being shredded by Carson Palmer, Drew Brees twice and backup Matt Flynn, it's blatantly obvious where the most help is needed on the defensive side of the ball.

The Lions do have uncertainty at defensive end. However, cornerback or safety should be the first area addressed, even with the Lion's "best available" draft strategy.

Courtney Upshaw definitely deserves to be on the Lion's draft board, but should not be high above other options. Despite their troubles and character concerns, cornerback prospects Janoris Jenkins, Dre Kirkpatrick and Alfonzo Dennard have more value and importance to the Lions moving forward.

Losing Eric Wright to Tampa Bay was a big loss, and the Lions won't survive in the NFC with Aaron Berry starting at cornerback again. Upshaw is a quality player, but isn't the answer for Detroit right now.

2. Not Suited for Lion's Defense

The Lions run a 4-3 "Wide 9" scheme, designed for the defensive ends to line up on the outside shoulder of the tackle or tight end. Even though Jim Schwartz won't admit it (via Mlive.com), this scheme stresses the defensive line attacking the quarterback.

Upshaw is a powerful edge rusher who makes plays with his strength, not so much his mobility. Upshaw also plays great against the run, which also hurts his value to the Detroit defense. The penetration of the defensive ends on the outside creates lanes for the linebackers to attack the run.

Upshaw's lack of speed and bull rush pursuit makes him a bad fit for the Wide 9 scheme.

Standing at 6'2", 270 pounds, Upshaw is more suited for a 3-4 defense. He has the same build as Lamaar Woodley (6'2", 265 pounds), and could pattern his game off the Steeler's outside linebacker.

Both are physical linemen capable of rushing the passer and defending the run. Upshaw will need to improve dropping back against screen passes and short underneath routes. With that upgrade, Upshaw could be a real force for a 3-4 defensive team.

3. Better Options at Defensive End

With Kyle Vanden Bosch not getting any younger, and contract issues with Cliff Avril, there are definite long-term questions at defensive end the Lions must address in the draft.

Upshaw wouldn't play right away as a Detroit Lion. Based on his skill set, it would take some time for Upshaw to successfully transition into a 4-3 defensive end. The Lions also have depth behind Vanden Bosch and Avril already with Lawrence Jackson, Willie Young and Everette Brown.

Another end should be brought in, but the Lions will look for more of a natural 4-3 player who can contribute right away instead of a project like Upshaw.

Whitney Mercilus is a popular name brought up when discussing if the Lions decide to draft a defensive end with the No. 23 pick, according to the Detroit Free Press. The Detroit Lions website indicates Vinny Curry was brought in for a visit last week, and could be an option in the second round if he falls to the Lions.

4. Offensive Line Needs Help

If the Lions decide to pass on a defensive back in the first round, that doesn't mean Upshaw or a different edge rusher is the given selection.

The Lions finally got a full season out of quarterback Matthew Stafford. If they want more in the future, they'll need to sharpen up the offensive line.

There are plenty of options at offensive tackle and guard for Martin Mayhew and the Lions. Jonathan Martin and Mike Adams are quality tackles that can anchor the left tackle on the offensive line. Cordy Glenn could challenge inconsistent lineman Stephen Peterman for the starting position at right guard.

While Upshaw looks like a promising prospect, there are other directions Detroit must go. Upshaw's future looks bright, but it should be for a different team not named the Detroit Lions.