NFL Mock Draft 2023: Post Super Bowl LVII edition

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 31: Bryce Young #9 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts after throwing a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter of the Allstate Sugar Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats at Caesars Superdome on December 31, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

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Nov 12, 2022; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Jalen McMillan (11) catches a pass for a first down against Oregon Ducks defensive back Christian Gonzalez (0) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /

Scouting Report. player. Pick Analysis. CB. Oregon. Christian Gonzalez. 18. 50

In my rough draft of this mock, I had Devon Witherspoon going to the Lions, but I just don’t see him falling this far. I could see them scooping him up with the No. 6 overall pick, but that might be a bit of a reach for a cornerback, even though he is a special talent.

So if the Lions decide to go defensive line with their first pick like I think they will to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, I could see them waiting until No. 18 overall to get a corner.

And Christian Gonzalez would be my best available here.

No, he’s not Witherspoon (who many Lions fans want) but he’s one of the best cornerbacks in the class for a reason.

Gonzales was one of the most productive cornerbacks in the country over the past couple of seasons, totaling 103 tackles, six tackles for loss, four picks, and 12 pass breakups.

Pairing him with Jeff Okudah would make for a nice start to a rebuilding secondary.

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