DETROIT – The Detroit Lions often have a lot of holes to fill in the NFL Draft every year. This year, it's a bit different -- there are still holes, but not as many. The areas the Lions are clearly lacking in are the offensive and defensive lines, but they could also use help in the running game, and maybe the secondary.
The NFL Draft begins on April 30, and the Lions have the 23rd pick in the first round. Here are five possible targets for the Lions in the first round.
D.J. Humphries, OT, Florida
The Lions are lacking on the offensive line. Head coach Jim Caldwell wants to be a run first team, and it starts with blocking. The Lions were 28th in the NFL in rushing yards in 2014. Humphries is an athletic tackle that could move Riley Reiff to the guard position, as has been reported.
Jordan Phillips, DT, Oklahoma
With the loss of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, the Lions are in need of some depth in on the defensive line. The team traded for Haloti Ngata, which will help bridge that gap. Jordan Phillips is a big defensive tackle, with big athleticism. He's one of those "has huge potential" guys, but hasn't reached it yet. There are some concerns about his rushing defense, and he has had injury problems.
Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State
Goldman is strong, and explosive. He's perfect for a 3-4 scheme, which seems to be the way the Lions are leaning. Again, his main weakness is his rushing defense.
T.J. Clemmings, OT, Pittsburgh
Clemmings is a powerful blocker, but also falls into the "has huge potential" but is still "raw" at the moment.
Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin
Gordon could easily be taken before the Lions at 23, but if he's available, it would be hard to pass. The Lions cut Reggie Bush last month, leaving the running back position with Joique Bell and Theo Riddick. Gordon could be a game changer in the NFL. He's an explosive playmaker, with great speed and agility, and he's also a pretty good pass catcher.
Other possible names to watch for:
Malcom Brown, DT, Texas.
Andrus Peat, OT, Standford.
La-el Collins, OT, LSU
Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia
Devin Smith WR, Ohio State. (Because, Lions)