Who the hell knows when you look ahead at schedules, but weeks 2-5 of Chargers, at Philly, KC is not ideal. Especially when followed by at GB on a Monday and home for Minny.
Great, Quinn signed an emo stalker freak: https://www.the-mainboard.com/index...g-novel-to-olivia-culpo.177258/#post-14228049
Sorry not sure how to hide articles with spoilers. Lions draft guide from the athletic The four months or so from the end of the NFL’s regular season through the start of the draft lets anyone who’s willing pretend to be a scout. Here’s my attempt. For the second straight year, we’re rolling out our Detroit Lions draft guide, a slightly abbreviated look at the prospect class — how a selection of players fit the Lions’ needs, what they bring to the table and when they might be available. If you want the full, in-depth breakdown of every guy in this class, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler provides it here. This is an attempt to narrow down the draft, to what Detroit might want, and where. GM Bob Quinn probably will slip one through the wickets anyway. Last draft, Tracy Walker was the guy I hadn’t really accounted for until he wound up with the Lions in Round 3. This year? We’ll see. Quarterbacks Need: Low … but higher than it was a year ago. In our 2018 Lions Draft Guide, I asked when “Matt Cassel and Jake Rudock’s contracts expire after the ’18 season, who’s going to back up Matthew Stafford?” The answer, I guess, stands to be either Connor Cook or Tom Savage, but do the Lions feel good about that plan? At some point soon, they have to pull together some semblance of a post-Stafford plan. Day 1 targets None. West Virginia’s Will Grier. (Ben Queen / USA TODAY Sports) Day 2 targets Drew Lock, Missouri, or Daniel Jones, Duke: This isn’t meant to imply Lock and Jones are the same quarterback, but rather that likely the only way Detroit considers a QB early in Round 2 (or by trading back into Round 1) is if one of the projected top 4 fall. Kyler Murray and Dwayne Haskins probably won’t, at least not into the Lions’ realistic range. One of these guys might. Will Grier, West Virginia: As a Round 3 option, he’s perfect — capable of stepping in as a backup with starter potential in the not-too-distant future. If the Lions are committed to a quick-hit, play-action offense that takes an occasional deep shot, Grier’s skill set fits wonderfully. Ryan Finley, N.C. State: A 6-foot-4 pocket passer who seems destined to be hit with that “game manager” tag at some point in his NFL future. He, like Will Grier, is already 24 years old, so there’s a shortened runway on development here, but he started 42 games in college. He was a grad transfer from Boise State to N.C. State way back in 2016. Day 3 targets Tyree Jackson, Buffalo: Is he going to make it to Day 3? His spotty accuracy and mechanics say no, but being a 6-foot-7 QB with a huge arm tends to tip the scales. The Lions have met with him at several points during the draft process. Jarrett Stidham, Auburn: Did Auburn’s system hold back Stidham or is that just the convenient excuse? Probably some truth on both counts, but Stidham clearly has some intriguing NFL traits. Notably, a strong arm and enough mobility to challenge defenses via scramble or rollout. Clayton Thorson, Northwestern: By this point, the Lions probably would be drafting someone to be their third QB, behind Matthew Stafford and a Connor Cook/Tom Savage-level veteran. Thorson is another option with a quality arm and usable mobility. Is there a next level to his game? Gardner Minshew, Washington State: A confident, experienced quarterback who cruises through his reads and gets the ball out. He makes for a tougher projection, though, coming out of Mike Leach’s Air Raid offense. There’s a lot to like as a Round 5 or 6 option. Brett Rypien, Boise State: Seems like the type of quarterback who could go the Matt Cassel route and carve out a 10- or 15-year career without ever flashing any elite traits. He’s just a solid QB who knows what to do with the football. Those 49 career starts and 37 wins won’t go unnoticed. Other names to remember: Easton Stick, North Dakota State; Justice Hansen, Arkansas State; Kyle Shurmur, Vanderbilt; Trace McSorley, Penn State. Iowa State’s David Montgomery. (Jerome Miron / USA TODAY Sports) Running backs Need: Low to medium. The Lions could start the season tomorrow with Kerryon Johnson as their featured back, C.J. Anderson as his primary backup, Theo Riddick handling some passing downs and Zach Zenner providing depth. But who’s the home-run threat in there? Who’s the long-term complement to Johnson? If the right option emerges during this draft, Bob Quinn should pounce. Day 1 targets None. Day 2 targets Josh Jacobs, Alabama: Jacobs has to get out of Round 1 first, which is maybe a 50-50 proposition. There isn’t much wear on the tires (120 carries last season, 251 for his career), but Jacobs showed enough in those opportunities to make for a clear-cut enough NFL projection. He’s a quick-cut back who can drive a defender between the tackles or get outside and turn the corner. David Montgomery, Iowa State: Just a beast. He doesn’t offer the breakaway speed Detroit might be looking for (4.63), but he can thrive in any situation. Montgomery runs hard, breaks a ton of tackles and is a trustworthy blocker. He plays with an above-his-years feel for the game. Damien Harris, Alabama: If the Lions are looking for a true complement to Kerryon Johnson — a between-the-tackles power back who can wear down defenses — then Harris might be the ideal option. He’s actually lighter than Jacobs (220 pounds to 216), but he punishes tacklers. Devin Singletary, Florida Atlantic: If he lands in an offense that lets him work in space, Singletary could be one of the most electrifying rookies in this class. Do the Lions fit that description? The Athletic draft guru Dane Brugler projects him to be a “LeSean McCoy-type of offensive weapon in the NFL.” Darrell Henderson, Memphis: A home-run threat on every play, Henderson averaged 8.9 yards per carry and 15.5 yards per reception last season. He’ll face an adjustment when the explosive gains don’t come as easily, but the Lions don’t have this level of a game-changer. Miles Sanders, Penn State: There are some people who really love Sanders in this class as a well-built runner who sees the field well and can catch out of the backfield. He shows some of that Kerryon Johnson-esque patience, almost to a fault. Day 3 targets Jalin Moore, Appalachian State: A strong, 212-pound runner who still has the quickness to stretch the field. Should have no trouble stepping in and handling a role as a No. 2 or 3 back next season. Justice Hill, Oklahoma State: A career 3,500-yard rusher with 4.4 speed. While Hill is more jitterbug than bell cow, his knack for shaking defenders and exploding into the open field will give NFL linebackers fits in coverage. Ryquell Armstead, Temple: A downhill back who’s going to max out what is there for him but probably won’t break many in the NFL. There’s still a place for a reliable 4.0 yards-per-carry rusher who will throw his body around in pass protection. Rodney Anderson, Oklahoma: An easy Day 2 guy were it not for his injury history. Will 2019 essentially be a redshirt season as he comes back from an ACL tear? He’s built to be a workhorse, at 6-feet, 224 pounds, with good vision. Bryce Love, Stanford: He’s 5-feet-8 with a history of nagging ankle injuries, so the Lions would have to be confident in his medicals. If they are, well … we’ve all seen what Love can do. He’s electrifying with the ball in his hands. Devine Ozigbo, Nebraska: Another complementary option — Ozigbo stands 5-feet-10, 222, and can help grind out yards. He also caught 23 balls last season, so that’s part of his game. Karan Higdon, Michigan: He never seemed to wear down, even in games where Michigan leaned on him for 20-plus touches. His cuts are sharp, and he can work between the tackles. Solid Day 3 depth. L.J. Scott, Michigan State: Let’s just pretend last season never happened. When he was at his best in college, Scott — 6-feet, 227 pounds — looked every bit like a potentially physical, consistent NFL back. Alexander Mattison, Boise State: With 569 combined touches the past two seasons, it’s understandable that Mattison declared early. Among those were 55 receptions. He’ll help an offense early, and he’s capable of carrying the load should the lead back go down. Other names to remember: Trayveon Williams, Texas A&M; Dexter Williams, Notre Dame; Benny Snell, Kentucky; Mike Weber, Ohio State; Alex Barnes, Kansas State. Electric slot guy Marquise Brown. (Kevin Jairaj / USA TODAY Sports) Wide receivers Need: Medium. Bob Quinn always stresses how he has to consider two- and three-year windows when making key personnel decisions. Within the next two years, Marvin Jones’ contract will expire (after 2020), Kenny Golladay will need a big-money extension (he’s a potential 2020 free agent too) and Danny Amendola almost certainly will be elsewhere (he’s got a one-year contract). The Lions have to start building in their next wave, but they also badly need a playmaker from the slot. Amendola should be a volume target — although, proceed with caution there as well since he hasn’t caught more than 65 balls since 2010; he’s definitely not a catch-and-run playmaker. Day 1 targets Marquise Brown, Oklahoma: Teams have to be concerned about how his frame (5-feet-9, 166 pounds) will hold up and, to a lesser degree, if his recent Lisfranc injury will linger at all. Otherwise? This is the most explosive receiver in the draft. No. 8 is probably too high to pull the trigger — on Brown or any other receiver — but he should be under careful consideration if Detroit trades down a few spots. D.K. Metcalf, Ole Miss: High probability that Metcalf is a Round 1 selection, but does he fit what the Lions need? He’s a straight-line physical presence who has to play outside. Unless the Lions are moving Marvin Jones, that could be a square-peg-round-hole addition. A.J. Brown, Ole Miss: He stands 6-feet, 226, ran a 4.49 40 at the combine and played primarily inside for the Rebels. Among this crop of prospects, Brown is the prototypical “big slot” teams are craving these days. If he slides into Day 2, don’t rule out the Lions moving up a few spots to take him. Day 2 targets Deebo Samuel, South Carolina: Get him the ball and get out of the way. He’s elusive from the slot, occasionally out of the backfield and as a return man. At 214 pounds, Samuel has some size on him too — he’ll make defenders work to get him down. N’Keal Harry, Arizona State: A sleeper to sneak into Round 1. He’s a dominant playmaker on the outside but with the nuance to beat teams on short and intermediate routes. If the Lions didn’t have Golladay and Jones, he’d be an obvious target. With them, would it be a luxury pick? Hakeem Butler, Iowa State: He’s a WR1 all day if he continues to improve. Honestly, there is some Kenny Golladay to what you’ll get on tape from him — a physical, big-bodied receiver who can go get the ball anywhere. Sending Butler to Detroit would push Golladay into a slot-heavy role or, more likely, open the door on a Marvin Jones trade. Riley Ridley, Georgia: He caught just 69 passes over his three Georgia seasons, which stands as a red flag for teams that want dominant college tape from their prospects. He’s also not going to challenge defenses downfield. What he does really well, though, is run his routes with precision. Andy Isabella, UMass: You’ve no doubt heard the hype by now, and Isabella’s 4.35 combine 40 only raised the volume. Because he’s 5-feet-8, 188 pounds, he looks like a slot guy, but his speed and ability to get open work from any spot on the field. Parris Campbell, Ohio State: This is a “speed in space” prospect if there ever was one. Campbell caught 90 balls last season, then ran a 4.31 40 at the combine. He’s raw in his route, so the production could be hit or miss early, but the big-play potential should show up. J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, Stanford: He’s almost ideal for pre-2018 Matthew Stafford — a receiver who simply bodies up cornerbacks to make plays downfield. Last year’s Detroit offense didn’t call for that type of guy as much, and it had Kenny Golladay (mostly) and Marvin Jones to serve the role when it did. Miles Boykin, Notre Dame: He tested through the roof, to the point that he’s unlikely to be around when Detroit picks at 88. At 6-feet-3, 220, Boykin is probably destined to play outside long-term, but he can work from the slot. A bonus: He’s a very effective blocker when pulled in close to the line. Mecole Hardman, Georgia: Kind of Parris Campbell redux on the scouting report, only Hardman (5-feet-10, 187) runs smaller than the 6-foot, 205-pound Campbell. He was a member of the Bulldogs’ 4×100 relay team and that speed is evident. The Lions pour a lot of time, every year, into scouting the Georgia program. Kelvin Harmon, N.C. State: At 6-feet-2, 221, he doesn’t need a lot of room to make plays happen … which is good because he doesn’t create much room. Still, the outstanding physical presence alone might turn him into an outstanding NFL receiver. Day 3 targets Terry McLaurin, Ohio State: A Senior Bowl participant with 4.35 speed, McLaurin averaged 20.0 yards per catch and scored 11 times on just 35 receptions last season. He can get deep and separate. Penny Hart, Georgia State: Another Senior Bowl standout, Hart caused all sorts of issues for DBs in Mobile with his quick, aggressive releases off the line. Would he be enough of a step up from Brandon Powell for the Lions to give up on their 2018 UDFA? Emanuel Hall, Missouri: Between his sub-4.4 speed and ridiculous yards-per-catch work (24.8 in 2017, 22.4 in ’18), he could be a Day 2 guy when all is said and done. He’s arguably the most natural vertical threat in this class. Gary Jennings, West Virginia: He can play inside or outside, but he’s most intriguing from the former alignment because of how physical and quick he is. There won’t be many teams that can match him in man coverage. Keelan Doss, UC Davis: The Lions have shown some interest in the 6-foot-2, 211-pound Senior Bowl participant. In 3- and 4-receiver threats, he’d be interchangeable with Kenny Golladay in a slot/outside role. Excellent routes, good finisher. Jakobi Meyers, N.C. State: An entirely underrated prospect in the ’19 class. Meyers has good size (6-feet-1, 203), great hands and experience playing the slot. He’d be another safety net for Matthew Stafford. Stanley Morgan Jr., Nebraska: Essentially, Detroit would be replacing TJ Jones with Morgan as their versatile No. 4 receiver. The Nebraska product (6-feet, 202) does well with his routes and attacks the ball in the air. Darius Slayton, Auburn: More speed — a 4.39 40 on a 6-foot-1 frame, which combined to make Slayton dangerous downfield. Can he do more than dial up a go route? Would he be able to transition to the slot? It might be worth finding out. Other names to remember: Anthony Johnson, Buffalo; Diontae Johnson, Toledo; DaMarkus Lodge, Ole Miss; KeeSean Johnson, Fresno State; Terry Godwin, Georgia. Alabama pass-catching prospect Irv Smith. (Todd Kirkland / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Tight ends Need: Medium to high. Nabbing Jesse James in free agency was a needed coup, but there is a lot of uncertainty on the depth chart behind him. That’s true even if we count Michael Roberts as a sure bet for the 2019 roster (which he probably is not). A priority should be to find a dynamic receiving threat at this position. Day 1 targets T.J. Hockenson, Iowa: He gets the tag as the “more traditional” tight end than his former teammate, listed below, and he is that, but Hockenson also averaged 15.5 yards per catch last season; Noah Fant was at 13.3. He’s a terrific athlete and a legitimate receiving threat at all levels. He and Jesse James together would give the Lions as strong a 1-2 punch as they’ve had at tight end in decades. Noah Fant, Iowa: The Hawkeyes’ setup is what NFL teams dream about — Hockenson as the all-around, inline TE and Fant as a movable, mismatch-creating hybrid. The 6-foot-4, 249-pound Fant has work to do if he’s to be trusted extensively as a blocker, but his athleticism is nuts. He’d almost force the Lions to open up their offense’s creativity so they could take full advantage of his skill set. Day 2 targets Irv Smith, Alabama: It’s almost the Marquise Brown discussion with Smith, as in, “Can you get past the physical limitations and fall in love with the player?” Smith ran an impressive 4.63 40 but underwhelmed in just about every other drill, plus he’s quite small for a tight end at 6-feet-2, 242 pounds. He’s a tough cover, though, and at least shows a willingness to block. Jace Sternberger, Texas A&M: The gap between those aforementioned “big slot” wide receivers and a hybrid tight end like Sternberger isn’t wide, save for size — Sternberger stands 6-feet-4, 251. His role within a passing attack would be the same, as a threat up the seams and across the middle. He’s also done some in-line blocking, so it makes sense that the Lions had him in for a top-30 visit. Dawson Knox, Ole Miss: One of those late “risers” we always hear about because of how he balled out at his pro day (4.58 40, 10-foot-2 broad jump, 7.02 3-cone). Those numbers move the needle because Ole Miss didn’t throw to him much — 15 receptions last season. He has shown he can block, but could he excel as a receiving threat too? Kahale Warring, San Diego State: He played just one year of high school football, so the development process is still very much ongoing. But he gets out and pops defenders as a blocker. If the receiving portion of his game comes along, look out. Day 3 targets Kaden Smith, Stanford: Draft a Stanford tight end and you know you’re getting a solid blocker with familiarity in a pro-style attack. Smith (6-feet-5, 255) adds to that impressive display as a receiver in traffic. Foster Moreau, LSU: A block-first TE at LSU, Moreau shined during Senior Bowl week in front of Detroit’s entire scouting group. We’ve seen underused LSU receivers explode at the next level, and Moreau might carry that tradition over to the tight-end position. Josh Oliver, San Jose State: Keep an eye on this guy. Because of how he works the middle of the field, he might eventually be an ideal counterpart to Jesse James. He caught 56 balls last season. Isaac Nauta, Georgia: Super-reliable — 30 catches on 35 targets last season. Because of his size, he might project out more as an H-back type, but he can work sideline to sideline and get open. Dax Raymond, Utah State: Might sneak into Day 2, although he’s already 24 and is, at best, a work in progress as a blocker. But he’s an athletic 6-feet-4, 252 pounds, and makes things happen after the catch. Zach Gentry, Michigan: Tossing the local kid in here, although expectations for Gentry’s career will have to stay grounded for awhile. While the 6-foot-8 frame and 16.7 career yards-per-reception clip should get him a shot, Gentry also just moved to tight end in 2016, meaning the learning curve remains steep. Other names to remember: Drew Sample, Washington; Alize Mack, Notre Dame; Tommy Sweeney, Boston College; Donald Parham, Stetson; Trevon Wesco, West Virginia. Oklahoma guard/tackle Cody Ford. (Kevin Jairaj / USA TODAY Sports) Offensive linemen Need: Medium. Where exactly the Lions land on the “need” scale depends on whether or not they believe their potential starting right guard is on the roster — Tyrell Crosby, Oday Aboushi, Kenny Wiggins and Joe Dahl being the candidates. If they do, this is likely a depth draft for them. If they don’t, they might have to take an aggressive run at a top-of-the-line prospect early on. Day 1 targets Jonah Williams, Alabama: A name that’s been connected to Detroit with increasing regularity as the draft approaches. If Williams’ arms (33 5/8 inches) were a bit longer, he’d be the clear No. 1 tackle on just about every board. Instead, there’s a scramble to figure out whether he should play OT or guard, but at either spot he has elite upside. Jawaan Taylor, Florida: He does have the length (6-feet-5, 312 with 35 1/2-inch arms). Whereas Williams built his stock playing on the left side, Taylor mostly locked down the right. Considering how much Detroit wants to commit to the run game, his penchant for bullying defenders could tip the scales in his favor. Do the Lions want to reset at right tackle? Or could Taylor see a tackle-to-guard shift too? Andre Dillard, Washington State: Bob Quinn drafted his predecessor at left tackle, Joe Dahl, in 2016. During the Lions’ 2017 training camp, Dahl told me that in Mike Leach’s wide-open offense, the O-linemen “barely ran any schemes,” “never played in a 3-point stance (and) we hardly ever run blocked.” Dillard is a more impressive physical presence than Dahl was and he dominated in ways Dahl did not, but that makes for a tough projection. Cody Ford, Oklahoma: Probably not an option at 8, but he could land in the mix after a trade down. While he was at his best in 2018 playing tackle, he spent 2016 and 2017 at guard. His size (6-feet-4, 329) and ability to get out front as a blocker certainly project well for a shift back inside. A plug-and-play solution to T.J. Lang’s departure. Chris Lindstrom, Boston College: Again, not at 8, but perhaps if Bob Quinn trades down in the first round. Lindstrom has the look of a 10-year NFL standout. He’s a fluid athlete who always tries to find an unblocked man. Garrett Bradbury, N.C. State: Similar to Frank Ragnow last year in that the ideal play might be to keep him at center, where he has been starting, but Bradbury would be fine at guard — he started there in 2016. He’s smaller (6-feet-2, 307), but right up there with Chris Lindstrom in terms of athleticism. Erik McCoy, Texas A&M: He’s only dabbled at guard, so either he or Graham Glasgow would have to shift positions if McCoy is the pick. There’s a possibility he could linger until the Lions’ selection at 43, but a team could fall in love far earlier. Day 2 targets Dalton Risner, Kansas State: He offers average size (6-feet-4, 312) and average athletic traits, hence why he falls under the Day 2 umbrella. But he also had 50 career starts at Kansas State, and that experience shows — there are very few moments where defenses catch him off-balance. Dru Samia, Oklahoma: Samia plays with that through-the-whistle edge NFL teams — and no doubt the Lions’ coaches — love. He’s been starting at right guard for the past three seasons, and even if the pass protection takes a little while the Lions could drive their run game behind him. Kaleb McGary, Washington: Another college tackle (47 starts on the right) who some front offices could envision as a tackle. He uses his 6-foot-7 frame to cover a ton of ground laterally, especially in the run game, and backs it with a little attitude. Tytus Howard, Alabama State: If the Lions want to move Tyrell Crosby inside and develop another young tackle behind Rick Wagner, Howard could hear his name called at 43. There are flashes of what the 6-foot-5, 322-pound prospect could be as an athletic RT, but he’s going to need some time. Max Scharping, Northern Illinois: The NFL.com player comparison listed for Scharping is none other than Rick Wagner, so that should give you some idea what type of prospect we’re talking about here. He should be at least an average-to-above average run blocker, and he anchors down well against strong edge rushers. Nate Davis, Charlotte: The Lions reportedly sent O-line coach Jeff Davidson down to Davis’ pro day. He’s a force when he can get his feet moving wide or to the second level in the run game. Elgton Jenkins, Mississippi State: If you want flash, this isn’t your guy. But Jenkins has experience at tackle, guard and center (he was an All-American in the middle last year) and can be one of those coveted guys a team drops in and never worries about. Connor McGovern, Penn State: He started 35 games split between guard and center for a Penn State offense that ran the ball a lot. His reliability in the ground attack will be appealing to Detroit. Michael Deiter, Wisconsin: Speaking of a guy whose run blocking is a draw … Deiter opened hole after hole for Badgers backs, and he did so while starting at center (2016), left tackle (2017) and guard (2018). Day 3 targets Michael Jordan, Ohio State: Not a lot of 6-foot-6 centers out there, so Jordan is unique in that regard. He’s a strong run blocker with center and guard experience. Lamont Gaillard, Georgia: A 42-game starter (guard and center), from a program that the Lions pay close attention to. He was first-team All-SEC as a redshirt senior. Ross Pierschbacher, Alabama: If you start 57 games for Nick Saban, you must be doing something right. Pierschbacher is more athletic blocker than power guy. Chuma Edoga, USC: Edoga was a tackle for all four seasons at USC but multiple teams, including the Lions, floated a transition to guard during Senior Bowl week. He also turned in a dominant showing down in Mobile from the tackle spots and his frame (6-feet-3, 308 with an 81 1/2-inch wingspan) points to staying outside. Bobby Evans, Oklahoma: Similar story to several of those above — college tackle who might be an NFL guard. He brings the hammer as a run blocker. Hjalte Froholdt, Arkansas: He was a defensive tackle when he arrived at Arkansas, before starting at guard for three seasons. A decent-enough athlete to warrant a look deep on Day 3. Alex Bars, Notre Dame: Bars blew out his knee in September so the medicals are obviously key. Healthy, he’s a heady blocker with a good punch and starter experience at guard and tackle. Other names to remember: Yodny Cajuste, West Virginia; David Edwards, Wisconsin; Isaiah Prince, Ohio State; Joshua Miles, Morgan State; Beau Benzschawel, Wisconsin; Tyler Jones, N.C. State. Is Ed Oliver an elite prospect in this class? (Thomas B. Shea / USA TODAY Sports) Defensive linemen Need: Low, but there’s room for a) depth behind Damon Harrison and b) a penetrating presence in the 1- to 3-tech space. With Harrison, A’Shawn Robinson, Da’Shawn Hand, Romeo Okwara and now the high-priced Trey Flowers, a high percentage of the available snaps — in base and sub-packages — are accounted for headed into the summer. Day 1 targets Quinnen Williams, Alabama: There are scenarios where Williams slides to Detroit’s pick at No. 8, but they’re unlikely. He’s a dominant defensive lineman with an NFL-level sense of how to use his hands and body positioning to get into the backfield. Ed Oliver, Houston: The great enigma of Round 1. Oliver (6-feet-1, 281) is undersized in a Geno Atkins/Aaron Donald sort of way, so there will be teams — maybe even the Lions — who shy away from him. Detroit also plays more of a 2-gap system; Oliver needs to be turned loose upfield, which hints at a 1-gap fit. All that said, though, he’s a special defender thanks to his ability to explode off the snap and beat interior linemen with athleticism. Christian Wilkins, Clemson: Probably more of a trade-down option than at No. 8. Wilkins’ size (6-feet-3, 315) sort of hides that he’s more Ed Oliver than Quinnen Williams, in that he relies less on size and power and more on using his quickness to split gaps. Day 2 targets Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame: Several of these defensive linemen fall into sort of a dead zone for the Lions — not enough value at No. 8 but probably won’t be there at 43. His closest athletic/testing comps via MockDraftable are a couple of Michigan State players: Malik McDowell and Joel Heath. Like those guys, Tillery (6-feet-6, 295) offers scheme versatility, yet might be best off playing as a 5-tech. Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State: Tough evaluation here. Simmons was arrested in 2016 and later found guilty of malicious mischief after punching a woman during a fight and he just tore his ACL in February, so he might spend all of 2019 on IR. If the Lions trust him on and off the field, however, Simmons offers an NFL-ready build and edge-rusher quickness. Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State: Similar questions of fit to those that’ll be asked of Ed Oliver, except Jones doesn’t exist in the same talent stratosphere. At least early on, he’d probably be a sub-package pass rusher for the Lions. He has a well-rounded plan of attack inside. Dexter Lawrence, Clemson: He might not be there on Day 2, especially if a team believes his 6.5-sack showing of 2016 can be replicated. If he is there at 43, he’d look awfully nice playing behind — or pairing with — Damon Harrison as a huge, agile run stuffer. Renell Wren, Arizona State: Bob Quinn talked last week of how much the Lions value college production over raw numbers, so that might point away from Wren, even though Quinn sent staff to Arizona State’s pro day. The 6-foot-4, 318-pounder could be a gem, but he needs an NFL staff to unlock his potential. Khalen Saunders, Western Illinois: His fiancée literally went into labor and had his daughter while he was at Senior Bowl practice. He had a good week down there even with all that going on. The 324-pounder is about 30 pounds heavier, but he’s got some Maurice Hurst in his game. Day 3 targets Daniel Wise, Kansas: The brother of Deatrich Wise, a 2017 Patriots draft pick. Daniel Wise was a productive player on a bad Kansas team (44.0 career TFLs, 18.5 sacks), and he can fit across any front. Isaiah Buggs, Alabama: He was a 3-4 end in college who, at 6-feet-3, 306, is probably headed for a DT role in the pros. He’d help replace Ricky Jean Francois as a steady inside piece for Matt Patricia’s defense. Daylon Mack, Texas A&M: A stout 336-pound interior tackle whose 5.5-sack performance of 2018 doesn’t figure to be repeated in the pros. He has all the makings of a run-stuffing anchor. Kingsley Keke, Texas A&M: The Lions had him in for a top-30 visit, and it stands to reason that they envision him as a possible big end who also could add depth inside. He had 7.5 sacks last season. Byron Cowart, Maryland: After two-plus seasons struggling to crack the rotation at Auburn, Cowart made some noise with the Terps last year. There is some speed-power upside in his game, if he can find it on a consistent basis. Dontavius Russell, Auburn: A strong 319-pounder who’s hard to move. He had just 6.0 sacks over his four Auburn seasons, so there’s little secret in what you’re getting here — Russell is an early-down defender. Michael Dogbe, Temple: In his draft guide, Brugler compared Dogbe to now ex-Lion Kerry Hyder, because of how Dogbe could chip in at multiple spots. By Round 6 or 7, that might be enough. Other names to remember: Trysten Hill, UCF; Gerald Willis, Miami; Armon Watts, Arkansas; Demarcus Christmas, Florida State; Greg Gaines, Washington; Chris Slayton, Syracuse. Michigan’s Rashan Gary. (Rey Del Rio / Getty Images) Edge defenders Need: High. Certainly less than it was before Trey Flowers moseyed into town. However, much of his value lies in how versatile he is — he’s not an elite, pure edge rusher on his own. The Lions don’t have that guy on their roster now that the oft-injured Ziggy Ansah has departed. Day 1 targets Nick Bosa, Ohio State: Well, sure, he’d be perfect. Unfortunately for the Lions, it would take a stunning turn of events for him to sniff the No. 8 pick. Josh Allen, Kentucky: Maybe an even better fit for Matt Patricia’s scheme than Nick Bosa because of what he can offer both as a pass rusher and a hybrid linebacker in space. Again, though, the Lions would have to get very lucky. Montez Sweat, Mississippi State: Lingering concerns over the heart condition discovered at the combine (reportedly) have Sweat’s stock in flux. Of course, he still blew up the combine by testing like a big wide receiver (4.41 40, 125-inch broad jump, 36-inch vertical at 6-feet-5, 260). He’s also carrying 84 3/4-inch arm length. He covers a ton of ground as a rusher, plus uses those arms to get into blockers and help set the edge. Brian Burns, Florida State: Could the Lions use a pass rusher like this? No question. Burns is a natural at turning the corner and flying toward the QB. But would Matt Patricia be able to live with a 249-pounder who might not have the strength to defend the run? That’s the real question on Burns. Rashan Gary, Michigan: Gary could go anywhere from pick No. 4 through 32 and no one would be all that surprised. The Lions could bite because of the crazy athletic gifts he possesses at 6-feet-4, 277, but also because his NFL role may look awfully similar to that of Trey Flowers. Couldn’t hurt to double up. Clelin Ferrell, Clemson: It’s like everyone forgot about him in the past month. He’s still the same prospect and that may be the main selling point — Ferrell is a quality all-around player with a high floor, almost like the T.J. Hockenson of edge guys. He’s long (82 3/8-inch arms), can get to the QB (27.0 career sacks) and would be an every-down player. Day 2 targets Zach Allen, Boston College: I used to write up a “Draft Crushes” post every year, picking prospects that I’d really go to bat for. Allen would’ve been on the list. He attacks with average quickness, but he can play just about anywhere up front and stifles the run. D’Andre Walker, Georgia: Vastly different — and about 30 pounds lighter — than Allen. Walker’s more of a classic 3-4 edge guy who bends the corner well. He had 13.0 sacks over his last two seasons at Georgia. Chase Winovich, Michigan: The motor never stops running here. Winovich gets to the quarterback by outworking O-linemen and beating them with extremely active hands. Will he offer enough against the run to be on the Lions’ radar? Christian Miller, Alabama: At a lanky, athletic 6-feet-3, 247, Miller gives off a bit of a Willie Young feel at times. He’s got 35 1/8-inch arms and an 82 1/4-inch wingspan — we know how much Matt Patricia covets big numbers in those categories. Anthony Nelson, Iowa: More length — 34 7/8-inch arms and an 83-inch wingspan. Nelson uses it well, too, to drive blockers back onto their heels. His stats improved every year at Iowa, up to 13.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks in ’18. Jachai Polite, Florida: Once thought to be a candidate at No. 8, Polite drove the Titanic full speed ahead into an iceberg during his pre-draft workouts. Does that overshadow his QB-hunting abilities? Bob Quinn said the Lions value production over testing numbers. Ben Banogu, TCU: At 250 pounds, Banogu is right on the cut line for what the Matt Patricia defensive scheme tends to prefer in its edge guys. Beyond that, he’s basically a mid-round prototype for the hybrid LB/DE spot. Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech: An egregiously bad 3-cone time at his pro day (8.08) might have wiped him off the Lions’ board. If he’s still there, Detroit could find a productive, developing edge guy in Round 3 or 4. Day 3 targets Maxx Crosby, Eastern Michigan: More on his unusual journey to the NFL here. From the hair to his effort level to how he works with his hands, he’s like the MAC version of Chase Winovich, only with a couple extra inches of height (6-feet-4) and longer arms (81-inch wingspan). Charles Omenihu, Texas: He looks like a power forward who decided to play football, at 6-feet-5, 280. The length is impressive, and he put it to good use during a strong Senior Bowl week. Jonathan Ledbetter, Georgia: After seeing him at the Senior Bowl, I have little doubt he’ll stick on a roster as a power-reliant edge who might be able to dip inside and help out at tackle. Malik Carney, North Carolina: In that Ben Banogu range as a potential hybrid JACK linebacker. He moves well enough around the ball that it’s not a stretch to envision him dropping in coverage more. Jamal Davis, Akron: A transfer from Pitt to Akron, Davis’ first step jumps out. If he can fill out a bit (6-feet-3, 243), he might make for an interesting watch-and-learn prospect behind Devon Kennard. Porter Gustin, USC: He might be worth a Round 6 or 7 pick just for the juice he’d bring to training camp. Gustin posted 33.0 TFLs and 21.5 sacks during his career. He won’t be outworked. Other names to remember: L.J. Collier, TCU; John Cominsky, Charleston; Oshane Ximines, Old Dominion; Justin Hollins, Oregon; Derick Roberson, Sam Houston State; Jalen Jelks, Oregon. Will LSU’s Devin White get out of the top 5? (Derick E. Hingle / USA TODAY Sports) Linebackers Need: Medium to high. The Lions still believe Jarrad Davis can be a star, and he started to show signs of progress last season. They could use another athlete alongside him, although Christian Jones held up well for most of last season in that role. At minimum, depth is a question mark here. Day 1 targets Devin White, LSU: The company line on White is that he’s extremely similar in style — positively and negatively — to Jarrad Davis. But what if you take the best parts of Davis’ game and crank them up to full volume? A Davis-White pairing might have minor issues in coverage, but they’d erase a ton moving sideline to sideline or downhill. Devin Bush, Michigan: Small (5-feet-11, 234), so blockers can wash him out when they get ahold of him. The rub: That rarely happens because Bush moves with such decisive speed in pursuit of the football. He also can cover and slip through cracks as a blitzer, so there’s plenty to like about the idea of making him Davis’ running mate. Day 2 targets Mack Wilson, Alabama: Here’s another top-tier prospect whose range could help plug any holes created by Jarrad Davis’ approach. Wilson could be a 100-tackle guy from his rookie season on, if he shores up little bouts of inconsistency. Te’Von Coney, Notre Dame: Averaged 119.5 tackles over the past two seasons, a nod to how adept he is at finding the ball. He’s less sideline-to-sideline talent, more a guy who’d add to the Lions’ run defense. Germaine Pratt, N.C. State: It doesn’t always go smoothly, but the safety-to-linebacker conversion — like Pratt pulled off in 2016 — adds some intrigue. Pratt’s easy movements and coverage skills hearken back to his previous life in the secondary. Blake Cashman, Minnesota: The 30 1/8-inch arms and 73 5/8-inch wingspan are about as small as you’ll get on a linebacker, and those limitations could push him down the draft board. But Cashman has 4.5 speed and rarely takes an errant step. Bobby Okereke, Stanford: Should score high marks on character, as is often the case with Stanford products. He’s long (82 5/8-inch wingspan) and excels in coverage. If nothing else, the Lions could toss him on the field for passing downs and let Davis attack the QB. Day 3 targets Vosean Joseph, Florida: There’s Jarrad Davis in this guy’s game too, so maybe it’s just a Florida thing. When he picks his spots, he wastes no time attacking and getting where he wants to go. Drue Tranquill, Notre Dame: Safety-to-linebacker conversion alert. Tranquill doesn’t show the natural coverage that move often brings, in part because he’s a limited athlete, but he’s just a classic linebacker. See the ball, make the play. Terrill Hanks, New Mexico State: He really impressed at the Senior Bowl, which the Lions’ staff no doubt noticed. Hanks actually might make for quality MLB depth behind Jarrad Davis because he has that same knack for downhill fire. Kaden Elliss, Idaho: The son of ex-Lion Luther Elliss, Kaden Ellis will make his mark with effort. The versatility is rather unusual, as well — Idaho used him as a D-lineman and edge rusher at times. T.J. Edwards, Wisconsin: He’s undersized (6-feet, 230) and an average athlete at best, which makes his 25 career pass deflections and 10 INTs all the more impressive. Production like that is a bonus because he’s best stopping the run. Other names to remember: David Long, West Virginia; Sione Takitaki, BYU; Ben Burr-Kirven, Washington; Cameron Smith, USC; Chase Hansen, Utah. Michigan State’s Justin Layne could sneak into Round 1. (Mike Carter / USA TODAY Sports) Cornerbacks Need: Medium. Best-case scenario for 2019 is that Darius Slay remains a shut-down corner, Justin Coleman proves to be worth all that money as a premier slot, and either newcomer Rashaan Melvin rediscovers his form as the No. 2 outside guy or Teez Tabor/Mike Ford takes a huge leap. Anyone feeling confident about those last scenarios? Day 1 targets Byron Murphy, Washington: The CB-at-8 buzz has died down. Murphy himself lost steam through the process because of his numbers (71 3/8-inch wingspan, 4.55 40), but he never pretended to be an uber-athlete. He just shows a pro-caliber sharpness to the way he processes the game on the outside — his 27 passes defensed and 7 INTs over the past two seasons are proof of it. Greedy Williams, LSU: He’s 6-feet tall with 4.37 speed, so there isn’t much secret to why he long has been pegged as a potential first-round pick. Where he might lose Patricia is in his willingness (or lack thereof) to play physical. He’s more of a finesse corner, both in pass defense and run support. Deandre Baker, Georgia: More length (77 1/8-inch wingspan) and a bit more speed (4.52) than Murphy, and he too prefers to throw his body around on the outside. He’s not quite as smooth or reactive as Murphy in doing so, but still warrants Round 1 consideration … although probably not in the top 10. Day 2 targets Justin Layne, Michigan State: The Lions might have to trade up into Round 1 again if they’re eyeing Layne. The 6-foot-1, 192-pound former Spartan has a ton of fans in NFL circles, both because of where he’s at as a defender and the promise he shows. He’s tough to beat when in press coverage and his receiver background helps him find the ball. Sean Bunting, Central Michigan: Another local product, Bunting just cracked the 6-foot barrier but pairs that size with 4.42 speed. He’s still a work in progress — a guy who might be hit with a bunch of flags early because of how he uses his hands to recover. Still, a realistic option at No. 43. Joejuan Williams, Vanderbilt: How much does Detroit value size at cornerback? Most teams prefer guys over 6-feet, but Williams is almost in a world of his own at 6-feet-4. That height is maybe his best attribute, as it lets him hang with all receivers outside. Julian Love, Notre Dame: Love didn’t hit that height mark (he’s 5-feet-10), but he’s a precise coverage corner, living on technique over size or raw speed. There’s obviously room for that approach in the NFL. He probably could be an outside/slot option too. Rock Ya-Sin, Temple: Plays almost like a 192-pound coverage linebacker. He gets up in receivers’ faces and makes it tough for them to create space. Did his sluggish 7.31 3-cone time bury his chances of landing with the Lions? David Long, Michigan: On the flip side of the 3-cone discussion is Long, who posted a ridiculous 6.45-second finish in that drill. Michigan’s scheme demands its corners excel in press, but Long’s change of direction could make him a special talent inside. Amani Oruwariye, Penn State: There are some rough moments on his tape, like the game-winning TD he allowed to Michigan State’s Felton Davis III last season. All in all, though, the 6-foot-1, 205-pound Oruwariye looks to be a cozy fit in Matt Patricia’s scheme. Trayon Mullen, Clemson: Check marks in the size-speed boxes — he’s 6-feet-1 and ran a 4.46 40. He doesn’t make as many plays on the ball as some of his counterparts, but his developmental starting point will be appealing. The Lions can afford to be patient with a guy like this because of Rashaan Melvin’s presence. Day 3 targets Kendall Sheffield, Ohio State: The torn pectoral Sheffield suffered at the combine could work to the Lions’ (or some other team’s) advantage by pushing the ex-Buckeye down the board. He’s an outstanding athlete and might be great in time. Lonnie Johnson, Kentucky: The Lions had him in for a visit after getting a firsthand look during the Senior Bowl. He’s 6-feet-2, 212, with 4.5 speed. Any technique deficiencies can be covered up by his traits. Isaiah Johnson, Houston: He ought to be in the Day 2 group, because it’s hard to see him sitting on the board until Saturday — a 6-foot-2, 208-pound corner with 4.4 speed likely will be overdrafted. The Lions might live with the raw aspects of his game because of what he could become. Corey Ballentine, Washburn: A Senior Bowl participant who played his way from small-school sleeper to a clear mid-round talent. His feet are quick enough to stay with just about anyone. Chris Westry, Kentucky: The Lions have shown interest in him and here’s why — he’s 6-feet-4 and ran a 4.35 40 at his pro day. Silly. He relies on that size and speed to a fault, but perhaps rightfully so. Other names to remember: Jamel Dean, Auburn; Saivion Smith, Alabama; Jimmy Moreland, James Madison; Kris Boyd, Texas; Marvell Tell, USC; Hamp Cheevers, Boston College; Jordan Miller, Washington; Jordan Brown, South Dakota State. Virginia’s Juan Thornhill. (Richard C. Lewis / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Safeties Need: Low. That ranking does not promise the Lions will take one early, but they can run at least four deep with Quandre Diggs, Tracy Walker, Tavon Wilson and free-agent pickup Andrew Adams. Another box/slot safety wouldn’t hurt, and they do have to replace Glover Quin. Day 1 targets None. Day 2 targets Nasir Adderley, Delaware: Adderley might be drafted in the first, but the Lions won’t be looking at this position on Thursday night. They did spend extensive time with Adderley during Senior Bowl week. His easiest projection is as a free safety, but he has cornerback experience and could wind up being a mismatch eraser from the slot. Johnathan Abram, Mississippi State: The Lions had him in for a visit, per the NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. He ran a 4.45 40 at the combine and plays with a linebacker’s mentality. Juan Thornhill, Virginia: Given the way that Matt Patricia likes to mix and match his safeties, Thornhill’s versatile game would mesh well. More speed here, as well — Thornhill chalked up a 4.42 40. Darnell Savage, Maryland: Frankly, he’s a bit like Quandre Diggs, if Diggs had sub-4.4 speed. The Maryland product is undersized (5-feet-10, 198), but can cover from various spots and flies around as a tackler. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, Florida: Michigan saw what he could do — Gardner-Johnson was the Peach Bowl’s defensive MVP thanks to two interceptions, including a Pick-6. He’s an ultra-aggressive safety who can be used as a blitzer. Taylor Rapp, Washington: The 4.78 40 time is tough to ignore. Still, Rapp reads plays so well that he rarely needs speed to eliminate gaps. If he’s a Lions pick, it might be a move that shoves Tavon Wilson out the door. Amani Hooker, Iowa: He played outside linebacker for much of last season, if that helps paint a picture of his skill set. He’d be a strong safety-type who could match up against whomever the opponent slides into the slot. Day 3 targets Will Harris, Boston College: Good in all areas but perhaps not great in any, which could make him a third safety for the Lions. He ran a 4.41 40 and started 41 games for Boston College. Khari Willis, Michigan State: The team that drafts him probably won’t be disappointed. Willis would make any locker room better, and he could be a three-down stud if his pass coverage proves up to the level of his run defense. Mike Edwards, Kentucky: The Lions have spent too much time poking around Kentucky’s prospects to not add one, be it via the draft or as a UDFA. Edwards is a new-breed safety, best-suited to play over the slot and handle specific matchups. Marquise Blair, Utah: Senior Bowl dude. The image I get watching him is of what it would look like if Jarrad Davis played safety. He just scoots around the field, devil may care. Other names to remember: Evan Worthington, Colorado; Saquan Hampton, Rutgers; Mike Bell, Fresno State; Malik Gant, Marshall; Iman Marshall, USC.
Assuming Bosa, Allen and Williams are all gone, I think this would be my ranking.... Bush Jr. White Oliver Burns Hockenson Gary Wilkins Sweat Williams Ford Taylor Williams Murphy Fant The first five are all pretty much the same for me.
If you look at some of the trade value charts, I think the return would be something like the early 3 they got for Antonio Brown + their other 3rd rounder. I think I would do that as long as there's someone in that range they feel comfortable taking.
It won't happen but i keep dreaming up scenarios where Allen falls to us by teams jumping into the top 7 to grab Qbs. This is how I get depressed every year.
I was holding out for this for a while, too, but there are a ton of reports out there saying the Giants won't consider anything else if he's on the board there.
He’s also apparently the 6th dumbest player to ever attend the combine, or whatever the Wonderlic tells us
My post is the truth and didn’t have reference to Michigan. If you are offended that a student at your school could score above 9 on the Wonderlic, that’s on you
Great, so keep college affiliations out of the pro thread and let us continue to talk about incredibly stupid draft eligible players
You guys should let him know he didn’t score a 6 then. He’s probably pretty confused. *also I know some highly intelligent dyslexic people and this excuse for scoring a 9 is very bad
Don’t bring college sports into this. Btw - from an objective standpoint, I think the Lions should consider Justin Layne and Khari Willis if they trade down.
I’m honestly kind of upset that someone thinks that dyslexia is an excuse for scoring a 9 on the Wonderlic. But that’s not because I’m an MSU fan. That’s because I believe in education