2017 NFL Draft: 5 First-Round Options For the Detroit Lions

By Fansided and Genna Preston/FanSided via NFL Spin Zone
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The Detroit Lions have several areas that need to be addressed during the 2017 NFL Draft. These prospects are their top-five options in the first round.

The Detroit Lions have had a productive free agency. With the 2017 NFL Draft quickly approaching, the Lions will need to address the areas they couldn't fill during their free agency power moves.

Although the Lions have offense needs, it has been speculated they will draft a defensive lineman with their first-round pick, 21st overall. With the Lions having a later first-round pick, some of their options will possibly be drafted by the time they get on the clock. Which means anything could happen whether it's defense or offense.

Anything could happen whether it's defense or offense. It's too early to assume or predict any draft day trades, but it is certainly not out of the question once the day arrives.

Based on the Lions needs, free agency acquisitions and the 2017 draft class, I have identified five first round options. In no particular order, here are the top five Lions options for the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.

5. Derek Barnett, DE – Tennessee

It's no surprise the Lions need a defensive end. Derek Barnett could be the player they draft, should he still be available when the clock starts. Barnett is athletic and versatile. He can transform from a defensive end to an outside linebacker. He averaged double-digit sacks each year during his college career.

Ezekiel Ansah needs a partner in crime. The Lions have been mainly relying on Ansah and Barnett would be a great addition to the team. Most mock drafts have Barnett being drafted no later than 15. With that said, should he be available at 21, the young athletic defensive end would tremendously help the Lions defense.

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a pass between Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) and defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) in the 207 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bart Boatwright/The Greenville News via USA TODAY Sports

4. Marlon Humphrey, CB – Alabama

Sticking with the defensive needs, the Lions are also in need of a cornerback. They signed former Oakland Raiders corner D.J. Hayden, but that still doesn't secure future needs, as the Lions haven't drafted a corner in a couple of years. So this position could become a priority in the draft. Lucky for the Lions, this draft is one of the deepest at the position in recent memory—even after injuries to a pair of the top prospects.

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    Drafting a cornerback would aid in one of last season's biggest struggle for the Lions. Darius Slay and Quandre Diggs were injured in 2016. Nevin Lawson played decently but, still isn't much to brag about. The Lions need a cornerback that brings athleticism and longevity so the team doesn't need to keep addressing the position. Yes, the Lions extended Slay's contract last year, but his injury is a perfect example why they can't rely on just him.

    Going with a young rookie like Humphrey would not only add great talent to the Lions secondary, but it would come at a great price. It would also allow the rookie to learn and progress under Slay.

    3. Taco Charlton, DE – Michigan

    What happens if Barnett is drafted before the Lions could get their hands on him? They go for Taco Charlton during the 2017 NFL Draft. Charlton is the type of player you believe will develop into the ideal overall player. His combine results in the 40-yard dash were undoubtedly upsetting for him and NFL scouts. However, at Michigan's pro day last week, he improved his time and showed great athleticism.

    His unique size and build are what most coaches pray for. With a little conditioning and coaching, he has the talents become a huge asset to the game. With the Lions looking to draft a solid pass-rusher, Charlton is a realistic first-round option, especially if Barnett goes as early as anticipated.

    Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) catches a 68 yard touchdown pass against the Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

    2. O.J. Howard, TE – Alabama

    Drafting a tight end in the first round is not something that happens often. Ironically, Eric Ebron was the last tight end to be drafted in the first round; Detroit Lions in 2014. And yet, here we are again. Ebron isn't a terrible tight end. However, he would benefit from having another solid tight end accompanying him; that's where O.J. Howard comes in.

    Howard has teetered between first and second when it comes to tight ends in this year's draft class. His height and frame alone make him a threat as he can receive and block.

    Unfortunately for the Lions, Howard might not make it the 21st pick. With this year's class showing talented tight end options, Howard and his fellow top draftees are on several teams' radars. In the event that Howard goes early during the 2017 NFL Draft, the Lions will mostly like consider a tight end later in the draft.

    1. Charles Harris, DE – Missouri

    Although the defensive ends on this list previously are realistic choices for the Lions, Charles Harris has been named the Lions first-round pick in ESPN Mel Kiper's most recent NFL mock draft.  Some scouts have questioned his lack of size, but his extreme athleticism and understanding of the game offer him versatility.

    I am concerned with his size and the way the Lions set up their scheme. However, Harris is a top prospect in this year's NFL draft  with immense potential and could be the only option when it's time for the 21st overall pick. The Lions ranked nearly last in the league in sacks. The only certainty we know is that there's a need for a talented pass rusher. They could do much worse than Harris.