Detroit Lions: Defensive line is still their top need
By Robert Jones
Depending on which way the Lions lean in free agency that should help clarify who they will be targeting in the draft.
If they decide to get inside help in free agency, then they will probably look at Marcus Davenport of Texas-San Antonio or Harold Landry of Boston College.
The top end available is Bradley Chubb of North Carolina State, but he is expected to be long gone before the Lions can even sniff the clock. Davenport had a very solid Senior Bowl week capped with an impressive performance in the Senior Bowl itself. That being the case, he may also find a home before the Lions have a chance.
If that’s the case, then Harold Landry would be a great pick. Many project Landry as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but despite his 6-3′ 250 lbs frame, he is strong at the point of attack and could certainly give the Lions the versatility to play both end and linebacker. Again that multiple scheme fit is perfect for Patricia’s defense.
Should the Lions land an end in free agency, then there are talented defensive tackle’s to choose from in the draft. Vita Vea from the University of Washington was a wrecking ball and can play as a nose-tackle in a 3-4 or a dominant defensive tackle in a 4-3. The 320 lbs Vea is considered to be very comparable to Haloti Ngata and has a big upside.
Maurice Hurst from the University of Michigan is slightly under-sized at defensive tackle, but has good quickness and projects to be an effective inside pass-rusher who could also swing out to a 3-4 end in certain situations. His ability to get off the line and play in the opponents backfield has been impressive.
Meanwhile Alabama’s Da’Ron Payne is a big boy with good athleticism. He can stuff the run and push the pocket. He displayed just how athletic he is in the National Championship game. His stock has been rising and looks like a player to watch.
The key to the Detroit Lions draft will come in free agency. The defensive front seven can clearly be upgraded with good decision making by Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia. If they can add a couple of players that can make a difference between free agency and the draft, then the Lions will undoubtedly benefit from it next season.
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But until they do so, no matter how you examine the situation, the Lions are not nearly good enough defensively up front to contend against the leagues top passers or runners until they address those deficiencies.