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NFL Draft 2017: Detroit Lions Have To Consider Picking Jabrill Peppers

By Tony Fischer

Mar 5, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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It was a relatively quiet week for the Detroit Lions as the team prepares for the NFL Draft. The big event on the calendar for Jim Caldwell and company was pro-day at the University of Michigan.  As many as twenty-four Wolverines, including Jabrill Peppers, could find themselves on training camp rosters this up-coming season. The Detroit Lions were among the many teams who were in attendance to scout them.

Taco Charlton, Jabrill Peppers, Jake Butt and Jourdan Lewis are projected as first or second round picks.  But Peppers was the one turning heads again at Michigan’s pro-day.

Peppers was considered a bubble first rounder as the season ended. But his stock is on the rise as he is being talked about as a top ten pick.  Now the controversy over Peppers isn’t about where he will go in the draft but where he will play on the field.

"The general consensus on a future NFL position for versatile Wolverines star Jabrill Peppers is that he’ll be a safety. But it’s still not unanimous. Peppers said two NFL clubs view things differently, one seeing him as a linebacker and another projecting him as an offensive player…-via Chase Goodbread on NFL.com"

Should The Lions Ponder Picking Jabrill Peppers?

Jim Caldwell and the Detroit Lions could use Jabrill Peppers versatility. Peppers ability to both play in the box and roam centerfield could prove valuable for the Lions who have more than one hole to fill on defense. He could also play on special teams by adding explosiveness to the return game after the departure of last years return man Andre Roberts.

If the Lions were to draft Jabrill Peppers it would most certainly create a media buzz that would result in season ticket sales. A boost that would be unique to the Lions considering Peppers’ status as a hometown hero.

The Downside

The risk with drafting a versatile “slash” player in the first round is whether or not that player can have a meaningful impact.  With gaping holes at linebacker and edge rush, the Lions might be better suited drafting an every down defensive player rather than a big-play specialist.

What say you? Should the Detroit Lions spend a first round pick on Peppers or play it safe by concentrating on position of need?

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