Detroit Lions 2024 NFL Draft First-Round Big Board

All Lions provides its NFL Draft first-round big board for the Detroit Lions.

The Detroit Lions are entering a crucial final stretch of the NFL offseason.

In three weeks, the organization will have the opportunity to boost the talent on its roster with Draft picks. General manager Brad Holmes has quickly established himself as a strong drafter, as evidenced by a class in 2023 that produced four starters instantly.

With the Draft drawing ever closer, here's a look at what players the Lions could target with their first round pick on April 25.

No. 29 overall

CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

McKinstry took a top-30 visit with the Lions last week and appears to be a solid fit for Aaron Glenn's scheme. He's a rangy, long and athletic cornerback with good ball skills and the ability to also contribute against the run with his physicality.

WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU

The Lions need a big-bodied, physical wide receiver who can play the 'X' position. Thomas has all the necessary skill and was dangerous as a deep threat for the Tigers last season. If Detroit wants to spend its first pick on a offensive addition, Thomas appears to be the perfect fit.

Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

Scott Clause / USA TODAY NETWORK

CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa

There are concerns about where DeJean will play at the NFL level, be it at corner or safety. This and an injury have contributed to a recent dip in his stock. However, Holmes loves to add prospects who are simply "football players" instead of prioritizing positional need. DeJean is exactly that.

EDGE Laiatu Latu, UCLA

The most polished pass-rusher in this year's Draft class is Latu, who was dominant over the last two seasons for the Bruins. His wide array of moves and counter-moves allowed him to notch 23.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson would give the Lions an electric young duo of pass-rushers.

C Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon

Powers-Johnson is among the best interior offensive line prospects and the best center in this year's Draft. With that, he can also slide to either guard position at the NFL level. Injuries have hurt the Lions up front in recent years, so adding premium depth at the very least would be a wise decision.

EDGE Darius Robinson, Missouri

This pairing would be an excellent one. Robinson is a Canton High School graduate with roots in Michigan. More than that, though, he'd be a good piece opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Robinson plays the run as well as an interior defender and adds pass-rush pop.

IOL Graham Barton, Duke

A tackle at Duke, Barton is projected to move inside at the next level. He's a mauler in the run game, which would be perfect for the Lions' ground-oriented attack. Additionally, his experience at tackle will help him transition to the pass-protection aspect of the interior nicely.

WR Adonai Mitchell, Texas

Mitchell is an exceptional pass-catcher, as he has a knack for out-leaping defenders in contested situations. He uses his big frame and does a good job getting his hands out as opposed to pinning catches to his body. Mitchell moves well and profiles as a strong downfield threat in the professional ranks.

CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri

While Rakestraw doesn't have the elite takeaway numbers, he offers eye-popping physicality upon watching his tape. The cornerback has no hesitation coming up to play the run. Though he posted subpar testing numbers at the NFL Scouting Combine, his tape is worth trusting.

The ball is thrown past Tennessee wide receiver Squirrel White (10) while covered by Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw (2).

Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY

EDGE Chop Robinson, Penn State

Robinson is an extremely athletic player who has the talent and pass-rush repertoire to be a difference-maker. He doesn't have as much proven production, but the intangible traits that he has make him worth taking a chance on.