New Lions Mock Draft Expert Roundup for 1st-Round Pick

The Lions are looking to return to the NFL's elite after missing the playoffs last season. A combination of injuries and offensive regression derailed their championship objectives.

Look for head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes to be decisive in getting the team back to contender status.

Ahead of the first round of the draft on April 23, here's a look at what experts are projecting the Lions will do with the No. 17 pick:

Expert: B/R NFL Scouting Department (3/31)

Selection (No. 17): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Holmes already opened the door to the possibility of All-Pro Penei Sewell moving from right to left tackle after Taylor Decker's release.

What if the Detroit Lions weren't forced to do so? Sewell has experience at left tackle, and he'd likely thrive on the blind side. At the same time, he's already one of the league's very best at his current spot.

In this scenario, the Lions have an opportunity to draft a left tackle prospect with outstanding physical gifts to complete their front five.

"Detroit favors size, power and physicality in the trenches," B/R scout Brandon Thorn said. "Alabama's Kadyn Proctor fits the mold of what a Hank Fraley-led room has looked like under head coach Dan Campbell, offering the class' best blend of size and raw power. He would also benefit from learning to better harness and refine his physical gifts while working alongside Sewell, as well as receiving extra help, slides and attention in pass protection."

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Expert: Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN (3/17)

Selection (No. 17): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Expert: Field Yates, ESPN (3/24)

Selection (No. 17): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Expert: Matt Miller, ESPN (3/30)

Selection (No. 17): OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com (3/31)

Selection (No. 17): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Expert: Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com (3/17)

Selection (No. 17): OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic (3/4)

Selection (No. 17): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer (3/4)

Selection (No. 17): Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson

Summary

The Lions were often overmatched in the trenches against the top teams last season. Campbell isn't going to allow that to happen again. Whether the tackle is from Alabama or Georgia, a top-tier SEC prospect should be coming to Detroit to help solidify the offensive line.