Detroit Lions 2020 draft prospects: A tale of three Buckeyes

J.K. Dobbins – Running back

Case for: While not projected to be an Ezekiel Elliott-type of star, Dobbins is coming off of a monster junior season of 2,003 rushing yards and 23 total touchdowns. Unlike teammate Chase Young, Dobbins saved his best for last, with 211 yards and four touchdowns against Michigan and 174 yards on an injured ankle against Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl playoff game.

My opinion is that Dobbins will be an above average NFL back wherever he ends up, and at minimum would immediately double Ty Johnson‘s impact even as the third running back in Detroit. Though underutilized as a pass catcher in Columbus, Dobbins is known for having excellent hands as well, which could make him a dual threat in third down situations.

Additionally, Dobbins has shown the ability to make an impact both as an every down back (three games with 30+ carries in 2019) or splitting carries, as he did with Mike Weber in his first two seasons at Ohio State, still going over 1,000 yards both times.

Case against: Dobbins is most likely a late first round or early second round pick at this point, so he could very well be available when the Lions pick again at No. 35.

My case against J.K. Dobbins has nothing to do with the type of player he is. As I’ve said before though, finding a backup QB/potential QB of the future is much more important for the Lions in this draft. Using this particular pick on a quarterback carries much more value than going after a running back.

However: If that trading down scenario that I mentioned earlier comes true and leaves the Lions with an extra pick in an early round, I’m all for using it to grab Dobbins.

What do you think?

Out of the three Buckeye stars, which would be the best fit in Detroit? Personally I’m not sold on Chase Young but would be pretty excited about getting Dobbins in Honolulu Blue. If you have a strong thought one way or another, don’t be a stranger to the comment section.