Detroit Lions: How the 2018 draft class can take the next step

Tyrell Crosby

Position: Offensive tackle

Drafted/School: 5th round (153rd overall) / Oregon

Height/Weight: 6-4, 309

2018 Stats: 10 games played, 2 starts

2018 in review:

The Lions were pleasantly surprised to see Crosby slip to the fifth round; it was speculated that his slide was due to multiple concussions suffered in college. With a high priced offensive line already in place, Crosby was clearly a developmental project, albeit one with a lot of potential. He wound up playing in ten games in his rookie season as the Lions’ swing tackle, including two late season starts in which he held his own.

Next Steps for 2019:

Crosby is in an interesting spot in 2019. He played tackle almost exclusively in college, and currently stands as the backup to both Decker at left tackle and right tackle Rick Wagner. Decker will start next season, but Wagner’s play hasn’t necessarily matched his contract ($9 million base salary in 2019). While it seems unlikely that Crosby will supplant either starter next season, a strong offseason and good health for him could prompt the Lions to open a competition at right tackle in training camp.

There is also a school of thought for Crosby being an option at right guard in 2019, due to the current uncertainty at the position. Should the Lions make a significant move either in free agency or in the draft at the position, it will be a sign that they view Crosby as a tackle going forward, with starting potential. Either way, Crosby will likely be a starter for the Lions by 2020, if not earlier.