2022 NFL Draft: 3 players the Lions should target at No. 2

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Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) is tackled by Georgia defensive lineman Travon Walker (44) during the second half of the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021.Syndication Detroit Free Press /

2. Travon Walker, DL, Georgia

This one is tricky because the Lions run a 3-4 defense. However, both Travon Walker and Kayvon Thibodeaux could go here because they are talented. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn would have to figure out how to use that talent.

Georgia defensive end Travon Walker has rocketed up many teams’ draft boards during the pre-draft process and has all the physical tools to be an elite pass rusher at the NFL level. Most scouts see the traits and believe that Walker’s production will increase in more of a pressure-based scheme.

Both Walker and Thibodeaux have the requisite size to play either even or odd man fronts. Thibodeaux played in multiple front schemes, first under former defensive coordinator (now Boise State head coach) Andy Avalos and Tim DeRuyter.

On the balance, both players have not begun to scratch the surface of how good they can become. Walker was not asked to rush the passer at Georgia; that is not the style of defense they play. Thibodeaux faced constant double and triple teams at Oregon.

Detroit would not go wrong drafting either player here at number two. However, all signs point to the quarterback.

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