The 2019 season did not go well for the Detroit Lions. Going 3-12-1, they had the third worst record in the NFL.
The crazy part, is that at one point it looked like they could compete.
In fact, the Lions started the year 2-0-1. Even at 3-4-1 they were very much alive. However, that's when trouble came in the form of Matthew Stafford getting injured.
The quarterback ended up missing the last eight games of the year. And without Stafford, the Lions went 0-8.
That took them completely out of the playoff race and showed just how much help this team needs, that was being masked by Stafford.
It also gave them some high draft picks. With that in mind, who should the Lions take with the 35th overall pick (third pick in the second round)? Here are two perfect options.
Let's get this out of the way right now. We are assuming the Lions are taking Jeff Okuda, the cornerback out of Ohio State, with the third overall pick. So we'll be steering clear of another cornerback in the second round.
Solomon Kindley
This one is really simple. The Lions need help on the offensive line. They have quite a few weak spots when it comes to that position, and guard is right at the top of the list.
Solomon Kindley went to Georgia, so he has the experience against big names and while playing in the spotlight. He never backed down.
Kindley would immediately be an upgrade and would give Detroit an athletic lineman who can help in both the passing and running attacks.
The biggest issue with Kindley isn't anything bad about his game. It's the fact that there's a strong chance he isn't available to the Lions at this spot.
Some people have him going near the middle of the first round, while others have him falling into the second.
If he's there at 35, it would be hard for the Lions not to be tempted to take the guard.
Raekwon Davis
Raekwon Davis doesn't just share a name with one of the greatest rappers of all-time. He's also an incredible defensive lineman.
Coming out of Alabama, Davis is just another elite defensive line prospect from the College. He has put up massive numbers against both the run and the pass, and brings versatility to the line.
Detroit already has Damon Harrison Sr. (Snacks) but it's unclear how long he'll be with the team. Trey Flowers is a great defensive end as well, but Romeo Okwara and A'Shawn Robinson are a little more tricky.
Both have shown some flashes, but at this point in their careers haven't really taken the leap.
Davis can play inside or outside on the line, meaning he could sub in for anyone. That would give the Lions a lot to play with as suddenly their “solid” defensive line could turn into an elite one.
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