Lions Mock Draft Part 2: Finding Hidden Gems in Rounds 5–7

The board never falls the way you expect—and if there’s one thing Brad Holmes has proven, it’s that predictability isn’t part of his draft strategy. After addressing key needs with the first four picks, Part 2 shifts to the back half of this mock draft, where value, depth, and potential steals take center stage.

With five selections remaining, this is where smart roster building can separate a good draft from a great one. Whether it’s developmental pieces, special teams contributors, or overlooked prospects who outperform their draft slot, these picks are critical to sustaining Detroit’s momentum.

Round 5: Kytron Allen, RB, Penn State

Allen projects as a mid-round pick known for his speed, vision, and physical running style. He fits Detroit’s gritty identity, averaging 3.77 yards after contact. In 2025, he posted an 89.5 PFF grade with 1,303 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 210 carries (6.2 YPC), along with 57 forced missed tackles. Over his career, he totaled 4,180 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns, adding value as a receiver.

Round 5: Pat Coogan, C, Indiana Coogan

brings consistency and reliability to the interior offensive line. He earned a 76.8 overall PFF grade and an 81.9 pass-blocking grade, allowing zero sacks and no quarterback hits across 766 snaps. With just two penalties and seven pressures allowed, he offers strong depth and potential as a future starter.

Round 6: Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson

Klubnik provides developmental upside at quarterback. He recorded a 78.9 overall PFF grade with 2,753 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and six interceptions, along with 16 big-time throws. His mobility adds another dimension, contributing four rushing touchdowns.

Round 6: Skylar Gill-Howard, DT, Texas Tech

Gill-Howard’s journey is unique, starting as a walk-on linebacker before transforming into a defensive tackle. He broke out in 2024 with 51 tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss, earning All-MAC honors. Though his 2025 season was cut short by injury, he flashed high-level ability. His wrestling background translates to strong leverage, balance, and physicality.

Round 7: Jadon Canady, CB, Oregon

Canady is a late-round flyer with intriguing production. He posted an 84.7 PFF grade, ranking highly among cornerbacks, along with an 87 coverage grade. He recorded two interceptions, allowed just 17 receptions, and held opposing quarterbacks to a 41.8 passer rating, showing promise as a depth piece.

Overall Summary: This second half of the mock draft focuses on building depth and finding value. From a physical running back in Allen to a steady interior lineman in Coogan, the Lions add key contributors on offense. Defensively, Gill-Howard and Canady bring upside and development potential, while Klubnik offers a long-term quarterback option. Together, these picks complement the early-round selections and help round out a balanced, high-upside draft class.