Post Draft Prediction for the Detroit Lions 53-Man Roster

Linebackers

Oct 4, 2013; Logan, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Kyle Van Noy (3) during the game against the Utah State Aggies in the third quarter at Romney Stadium. Brigham Young Cougars defeated the Utah State Aggies 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

Currently on the roster: DeAndre Levy, Stephen Tulloch, Kyle Van Noy, Ashlee Palmer, Cory Greenwood, Brandon Hepburn, Justin Jackson, Travis Lewis, Julian Stanford, and Tahir Whitehead

Oddly enough this is now one of stronger units on the entire team. If DeAndre Levy and Stephen Tulloch can return to 2013 form and Kyle Van Noy can add a spark off the edge, the Lions should have one of the better front sevens in the NFL.

Hopefully Van Noy will give the Lions a reliable blitzer off the edge. That’s one area the previous regime could never get to work. Last season not one linebacker had a positive pass rushing grade from Pro Football Focus. Look for the Lions to continue to emphasize using linebackers who can rush the passer, but also cover in space.

Tahir Whitehead could see some time as an outside rusher in the new look defense, but his main value comes on special teams and that’s where he’ll earn his roster spot. Beyond Whitehead it’s hard to see anyone else making the roster, especially with the numbers crunch in the secondary.

My Guess: DeAndre Levy, Stephen Tulloch, Kyle Van Noy, Tahir Whitehead, and Ashlee Palmer (5)