Detroit Lions 2015 NFL Draft Watch: DB Combine Buzz

The Detroit Lions 2015 NFL Draft Watch gives you college football players to watch who could be on the Detroit Lions’ radar this spring, with a particular focus on positions of need.

Now that the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine has wrapped up, let’s take a look at what noted experts are saying about some of the defensive backs we’ve previously highlighted, whose performances have caught the attention of Lions’ scouts.

Trae Waynes (DB 50), CB – Michigan State

“A well-coached cornerback, Waynes earned some good money during the Monday workouts.” – Mike Mayock

Going into the combine, Trae Waynes was poised to impress. And did he ever. Waynes turned in a blazing 40 time of 4.31 seconds, securing him the top spot out of the defensive backs. He was calm and cool during the on-field workouts, showing evaluators he could flawlessly execute the position drills. Mike Mayock noted of his performance, “A well-coached cornerback, Waynes earned some good money during the Monday workouts.” Waynes’ performance likely put him out of reach for the Lions’ first round pick.

Ronald Darby (DB 10), CB – Florida State

“Darby not only looks like a prototypical nickel corner candidate, but he has the athleticism and technical skills to be a legitimate starting corner in the right situation.” – Bucky Brooks

Between P.J. Williams and Ronald Darby, the two d-backs from Florida State at the combine, most experts were picking Williams to be a combine standout. However, Williams delivered a moderately disappointing performance yesterday, while Darby shined. Darby ran the 40 in 4.38 seconds and performed solidly during the on-field drills, showcasing his athleticism and quickness. Bucky Brooks picked Darby as one of his “buzzworthy” players, writing that, “Darby not only looks like a prototypical nickel corner candidate, but he has the athleticism and technical skills to be a legitimate starting corner in the right situation.”

Senquez Golson (DB 19), CB – Ole Miss

“Golson tracks the ball as well as anyone I’ve seen in years.” – Mike Mayock

The diminutive corner (5-9) from Ole Miss impressed with a 4.46 on both attempts in the 40 yard dash. What will really help his draft stock was his execution of Monday’s on-field drills. He looked quick and fluid during the ball exercises, putting up one of the best performances during the d-back gauntlet. During the combine coverage, Mike Mayock commented that “Golson tracks the ball as well as anyone I’ve seen in years.” Most likely a nickel corner at the next level, look for Golson to be an early to mid-second day pick.

Doran Grant (DB 20), CB – Ohio State

“Ohio State didn’t win it all by accident-CB Doran Grant may not be highly ranked, but I’ve always liked his competitive streak/Intelligence.” – Charles Davis

A personal favorite of mine, Doran Grant showed up at the combine with something to prove. A somewhat underrated player, Grant ran a 4.44 second 40, tying him for third place out of the defensive backs. He also managed to put up 21 reps at 225 lbs., ranking him second in his position at the bench press. On-field, he showcased his speed and athleticism, executing all drills with the quickness and accuracy evaluators look for in corners. Charles Davis tweeted prior to Grant taking the field yesterday, “Ohio State didn’t win it all by accident – CB Doran Grant may not be highly ranked, but I’ve always liked his competitive streak/Intelligence.” Look for this formerly third or fourth round pick to possibly bump up to the second round based off his combine performance.

More from SideLion Report

Home/Lions Draft