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Lions 7-Round Mock Draft Part 2: Finding Day 3 Gems with Real Impact
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- Lions 7-Round Mock Draft Part 2: Finding Day 3 Gems with Real Impact
(Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images)
After breaking down Malachi Lawrence , Olaivavega Ione and Lee Hunter , here is Part 2 of my seven-round mock draft featuring trades.
Round 4, Pick 128: Bud Clark , S, TCU
2025 PFF grades: 79.5 overall, 75.7 coverage, 84.2 run defense. Clark recorded four interceptions, allowed 26 receptions and played 664 total snaps.
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Combine metrics: 4.41-second 40-yard dash (seventh fastest), 1.56-second 10-yard split (sixth), 38-inch vertical (fifth) and 10-foot-7 broad jump (fifth).
Next Gen Stats combine scores: 79 production (fifth), 75 athleticism (14th), 79 overall (fifth).
Clark earned a starting role midway through the season and finished with five interceptions, tied for 11th nationally. He delivered a standout performance in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal against Michigan , returning an interception 41 yards for a touchdown and recovering a fumble in the end zone. His play earned him honorable mention All-Big 12 honors. Clark’s instincts, ball skills and athletic profile make him an intriguing developmental safety with starting upside.
Round 5, Pick 157: Kaytron Allen , RB, Penn State
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Allen projects as a mid-to-late round selection, likely between the fourth and sixth rounds. He brings a blend of vision, power and toughness that aligns with Detroit’s physical identity. A downhill runner, Allen consistently embraces contact and fights for extra yardage, averaging 3.77 yards after contact.
He demonstrates strong ball security with a high-and-tight carry through traffic and contact. His patience stands out, allowing blocks to develop before attacking running lanes with decisive, one-cut ability.
Allen’s 2025 production underscores his effectiveness. He posted an 89.5 overall grade and a 91.3 rushing grade, totaling 210 carries for 1,303 yards and 15 touchdowns while averaging 6.2 yards per attempt. He forced 57 missed tackles and lost just one fumble.
Over his career, Allen appeared in 54 games, rushing for 4,180 yards and 39 touchdowns on 769 carries. He also contributed as a receiver with 70 catches for 490 yards and four scores. His durability, consistency and physical running style make him a strong fit in Detroit’s offense.
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Round 6, Pick 205: Red Murdock , LB, Buffalo
2025 PFF grades: 91.2 overall, 91.3 run defense, 72.3 pass rush, 86.5 coverage. Murdock recorded 93 solo tackles (ninth most), 42 assisted tackles (second most) and six sacks.
Measurements: 6-foot-2, 232 pounds.
Murdock is a physical, downhill linebacker who thrives against the run. At Buffalo, he established himself as a high-motor defender with reliable tackling ability and a strong feel for the ball. He processes plays quickly, fills gaps with authority and brings consistent effort.
While he lacks elite fluidity in coverage, Murdock’s toughness and instincts make him dependable in the box. He projects as an early-down linebacker and core special teams contributor, offering energy, physicality and consistency at the next level.
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Overall
This mock draft emphasizes defensive reinforcement, with four defensive selections and two offensive additions. Although the original plan included nine picks, consolidating assets to land six players with stronger impact potential provides a more focused approach.
