Detroit Lions headlines: Drafting a pass rusher, Safe prospects
What the Detroit Lions might do at the defensive end position is just one of several topics we cover in today’s Motor City headlines!
The Detroit Lions have many key decisions to make this offseason. Possibly chief among them is what the front office will do at the position of defensive end. The pending free agency of pass rusher Ziggy Ansah being at the forefront.
What if the Lions decide to part ways with Ansah? We take a look at some possible replacements in both free agency and in the upcoming NFL draft, plus cover other news in today’s edition of headlines!
MOCK DRAFT WATCH: Pre-Combine picks – DetroitLions.com
Of all the mock drafts listed in the above article, there seems to be a split between running back and defensive line at #20. Although I think there is a case to be made for offensive line as well, it’s clear that Detroit’s top selection will be much more about who is available when their number is called over simple team need.
Detroit Lions free agency 2018: Top 5 targets – FanSided
Out of the five free agents listed above, two are former New England Patroits. And why not? New Lions head coach Matt Patricia has insider knowledge of those players, so there would be no better judge of their talent and character as potential additions to the roster than him.
2018 NFL Draft: Team fits for 10 safest prospects – NFL.com
I’m starting to fall in love with the idea of the Lions drafting an offensive lineman high. Although running back is near the top of my wish list for Detroit, this deep class certainly allows the Lions to look elsewhere in round one if they choose.
Landing someone like Florida’s State Billy Price gives Detroit the flexibility to play him at starting center or left guard. His addition would allow Graham Glasgow to be placed in his best position, giving the Lions their best possible five man front along their offensive line.
Mel Kiper: It’s a bad, bad year for defensive ends in NFL draft – Mlive.com
Instead of offensive line or running back, maybe the Lions would best be served drafting a defensive end in round one. Especially if they decide to part ways with Ziggy Ansah. According to ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr., this is a very slim class of pass rushers. Grabbing one early may be Detroit’s only chance of landing a potential Ansah replacement. This fact could also be a viable reason to re-sign Ansah or place the franchise tag on him this offseason.
Next: Lions 2018 NFL Draft - 7 round mock
Free-agency fun, NFC: Teddy Bridgewater to Arizona Cardinals? – NFL.com
Once again, connecting the dots with Matt Patricia’s previous home influences free agent predictions. This time, it’s New England Patroits cornerback Malcolm Butler being highlighted as a possible free agent signing for the Lions. Although, the way things played out in the Super Bowl for Butler, it’s unclear if he might want to stir clear of all things Patriots this offseason. I guess we’ll find out soon enough.