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Detroit Lions mock draft, Day 2: Following up Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell

By Michael Johnson

BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 6: Tight end Luke Musgrave #88 of the Oregon State Beavers makes a catch against the Colorado Buffaloes during a game at Folsom Field on November 6, 2021 in Boulder, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 6: Tight end Luke Musgrave #88 of the Oregon State Beavers makes a catch against the Colorado Buffaloes during a game at Folsom Field on November 6, 2021 in Boulder, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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Detroit Lions
LUBBOCK, TEXAS – OCTOBER 29: Defensive lineman Siaki Ika #62 of the Baylor Bears reacts during the first half of the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Jones AT&T Stadium on October 29, 2022 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /

Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor

The Detroit Lions are in need of a run-stuffing tackle to bolster their defense, and Siaki Ika could be the perfect fit. While Ika’s 2022 season was less productive than his debut year at Baylor, his raw size, strength, and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect for Day 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Ika’s versatility as a nose tackle is a key attribute that should appeal to the Lions. He’s a space-eater in the heart of the defense, capable of plugging gaps and keeping linebackers clean. He also has a nose for splash play production, illustrated by his four tackles in his first game with the Baylor Bears in 2021. Ika’s ability to penetrate and disrupt the backfield is another asset, particularly if he’s given opportunities to go head-to-head with opposing centers.

However, Ika’s lack of consistency in anchoring against double teams and his limited length could pose challenges at the next level. He may need to cut weight to become even more dynamic and find better consistency in true anchor situations at the point of attack to unlock his full potential. His positional value and role may yield a limited snap role, which could limit his impact on the field. Still the Lions need guys that can stuff the run, so why not?

Ika’s raw mass, mobility, and prototypical size make him a potential steal for the Lions on Day 3 of the draft. While he may not have the suddenness and agility of some interior defenders, his ability to stuff the run and occupy blockers should provide a boost to the Lions’ defense. With some development and coaching, Ika could become a valuable asset on the Lions’ defensive front.

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