Detroit Lions: One UDFA linemen who could start Week 1

The Detroit Lions are clearly interested in improving in the running game, and one undrafted free agent can help the offensive line instantly in 2019.

The majority of Detroit Lions seem to be satisfied with the haul of talent that general manager Bob Quinn drafted, but the main complaint by this majority post-draft has been the lack of attention to addressing the running game.

Despite starting right guard and former two-time Pro Bowler T.J. Lang retiring in late March, the Lions did not use one of their nine draft picks to select an offensive linemen.

Perhaps Quinn and his staff feel confident in former Oregon linemen Tyrell Crosby filling that hole in the line, as we’ve covered his potential at the position multiple times here at SideLion Report.

And while Crosby’s development has been encouraging so far this offseason, some formidable competition at guard could both Crosby and his competitor to be better, which seems to be part of the reason why the Lions signed former Wisconsin Badger Beau Benzschawel to a free agent contract last week.

Benzschawel posted quite the resume in college, starting for the past three seasons (41 games) in Madison. Benzschawel improved on his All-Big Ten second team sophomore season with a first team All-American nod from Sports Illustrated his junior year and a consensus All-American honor his senior year, with All-Big Ten first team appearances in each of his last two seasons.

Many draft experts were shocked to see Benzschawel not be drafted in the 2019 NFL draft, mostly because he possesses NFL size at 6’6″ and 315 pounds, and posted decent combine numbers with a 5.24 40-yard dash and 20 reps at the bench press.

Due to his many accolades and elite size, Benzschawel was one of the most sought-after undrafted prospects in the draft. He received 20 offers from more than half the league, but chose the Lions due to their quality infrastructure and his optimal chances to play right away in Detroit.

While many undrafted NFL free agents end up getting dumped from the roster before they even see the field in the preseason, due to a lack of depth at the position, Benzschawel has potential as an NFL linemen and could possibly start for the Detroit Lions.

Benzschawel was an absolute mauler in his time in the Big Ten, as these highlights clearly show, the man was able to dominant against some of the conference’s elite defensive lines in Ohio State, Iowa and Michigan.

The former Badger uses ideal hand placement to excel in the trenches, and was able to dominant due to a decent football I.Q. and a high motor, both of which can help him to do well in the NFL.

When Week 1 finally rolls around in September, it should be interesting to see if Crosby, Benzschawel or another young prospect is starting at right guard for Motor City.