Detroit Lions: How the 2018 draft class can take the next step
Nick Bawden
Position: Fullback
Drafted/School: 7th round (237th overall) / San Diego State
Height/Weight: 6-2, 245
2018 Stats: 0 games played (Injured)
2018 in review:
Bawden suffered a torn ACL in offseason workouts, and subsequently saw no game action in 2018. Converted linebacker Nick Bellore handled the fullback duties for the Lions last season.
Next steps for 2019:
Bellore is an unrestricted free agent, and it’s a safe bet that the Lions will move on and hand the reins to Bawden, provided he has fully recovered. In his previous stops as offensive coordinator, Bevell has employed a fullback in his offense in every season.
Needless to say, there will be a fullback on the roster in 2019, and all signs point to Bawden, though Bellore’s special teams ability could make it competitive. As with most fullbacks, whoever gets the nod will likely play a selective role on offense and a larger one on special teams, given the opponent.
Which of these Lions do you think will take the biggest step forward in their second season? Let us know in the comments section below.
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