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3. Quandre Diggs
Although Quandre Diggs was fifth-round pick of the Detroit Lions in the 2015 NFL Draft, there is as much hype around his name as any of the rookies selected before him. Maybe more.
The reason being is that Detroit has lacked a sustainable nickel corner for as long as anyone can remember. In 2014, the position was decimated by injury, including names like Bill Bentley and Nevin Lawson. The hope is that with Diggs, the Lions have found themselves a guy who may be able to start from day one.
At the teams organized activities and practices last month, Diggs began working with the first team defense almost immediately — and there were plenty of folks pleasantly surprised, but not Diggs himself.
Via Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press:
"“It’s what I expected of myself, to go out and compete and make plays,” Diggs said while taking part in a Play 60 clinic at the NFL rookie symposium. “I wouldn’t say I’m pleased with it because in my eyes I can do a lot better, I can be a lot better. I’m my hardest critic and I know I’ll continue to get better and I’m just going to go out and prove the player I am.”"
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Diggs was a four-year starter at the University of Texas, totaling 11 interceptions in 49 starts. It’s that quality time on the field that has helped Diggs develop great instincts and above average ball skills despite being a rookie in the NFL.
Diggs will have an opportunity to win the nickel job when the Lions report to camp in a matter of days. Veteran Josh Wilson and perhaps Lawson also will be the mix as well.
"“If things work out the way they’re supposed to and if that’s the plan God has for me, then it’s possible,” Diggs said. “But I’m doing anything I can to contribute for the team and whatever it is, I’m just going to go out and just do what I can and go make plays.”"
Next: 2. Ryan Broyles