2014 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions Round 2 Big Board
By Aaron Meckes
Oct 25, 2013; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Kyle Van Noy (3) attempts to rush around the block of Boise State Broncos offensive linesman Travis Averill (73) during the second half at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Brigham Young won 37-20. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
The Detroit Lions opted to stay put at pick 10 Thursday night, and opted to go with North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron. What position will they address with the 45th pick Friday night? Here’s how I see the Lions Big Board headed into tonight.
1) Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU
One of the top edge rushers in this class, Van Noy plays with great instincts and would immediately come in and excel in the “flamethrower” role that Teryl Austin’s defense so desperately needs.
2) Marqise Lee, WR, USC
Perhaps a top 10 pick a year ago, it’s a bit of a surprise to see Lee still available after Day 1. Some injuries may be minor red flags, but Lee would be an excellent option for Detroit in the second round.
3) Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
Another first round talent available on Day 2, Ealy would compete immediately for a starting defensive end position. Keep in mind the departure of Willie Young leaves a big opening in the defensive end rotation.
4) Demarcus Lawrence, DE, Boise State
Lawrence is a bit undersized for a defensive end, but he makes up for it with exceptional speed off the edge. He could be the pass rusher Detroit needs.
5) Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Robinson, who played his high school ball in the Detroit area, is a big receiver who is still a bit raw. He plays faster than his combine results might indicate, and is strong with the ball.
Sep 21, 2013; Bloomington, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Cody Latimer (3) makes a catch against the Indiana Hoosiers during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
6) Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana
Another B1G receiver who garnered potential first-round consideration, Latimer, like Robinson, is still a bit raw in terms of route running and footwork. Would complement Detroit’s current receiving corps well as an outside receiver.
7) Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
An athletic freak, Hageman has the potential to be a superstar at the NFL-level. Unfortunately, he is probably also one of the biggest risks in this draft. Someone will take a chance on him early tonight.
8) Davante Adams, WR, Fresno State
Coming out as a redshirt sophomore, Adams is a playmaker with the ball in his hands. He’s an exceptional athlete and also projects as an outside, No. 2 receiver.
9) Jeremiah Attaochu, OLB, Georgia Tech
Attaochu is probably a better fit as a 3-4 edge rusher, but when you watch his game you see an explosive athlete with pure pass-rushing ability.
10) Pierre Desir, CB, Lindenwood
Coming out of NAIA Lindenwood University, Desir has all the athletic tools and the big frame that teams wants in a starting cornerback. Raw but talented, Desir should hear his name called in the second round.
11) Lamarcus Joyner, DB, Florida State
Shows the versatility to play both cornerback and safety, Joyner may be just what the Lions need as they look to build their defensive backfield in the future.
Sep 14, 2013; Columbia, SC, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores wide receiver Jordan Matthews (87) makes a reception during warmups before the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
12) Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
Matthews is by all accounts an extremely hard worker and a very smart player, but needs to play a bit stronger. Learning from the best wide receiver in the world in Detroit seems like a solid option to me.
13) Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State
Potentially an option for Detroit in the third round, I wanted to include his name here. Richburg is arguably the best center in this draft class, and bringing him in now gives Detroit’s coaches a year to groom him as Dominic Raiola’s replacement.