Which Detroit Lions rookie are you most excited about?
This Detroit Lions rookie excite us the most for the 2020 NFL season
The Detroit Lions have concluded their virtual offseason programs and are headed back to facilities to get ready for the 2020 NFL season. For the first time, fans will get to see rookies in action. Which of the nine Lions draft picks are you most excited to see?
My choice is EDGE Rusher Julian Okwara. Over the past few years, head coach Matt Patricia has put most of us on a roller coaster with his 3-3-5 defensive scheme. A scheme that requires the flexibility of most players when it comes to positions.
One position that a handful of fans have become familiar with is the “JACK Linebacker.” A hybrid linebacker that plays both off the ball linebacker and defensive end. In the two years with Patricia, EDGE rusher Devon Kennard has filled this role.
Kennard is no longer with the team and I believe Okwara will be the next man up. In three years as a full-time starter at Notre Dame, Okwara racked up 15.5 sacks, two interceptions, and four forced fumbles.
Okwara can give the Detroit Lions something that’s been missing
Coming off a broken leg, Okwara is a player that we should all keep tabs on. However, if he is back to full health, it could bring a new element to the Lions pass rush they have been missing. More specifically, he can add to the speed rush, which has been nonexistent.
Detroit has also brought another option to their pass coverage, especially against running backs and tight ends. Watching Okwara on film, it’s easy to see he has some work to do playing against the run, but his pass-rushing ability, along with his coverage skills, is what brings me on board.
Okwara is the type of player the Lions have been lacking. Having his brother, defensive end Romeo Okwara on the team, is another development I’ll keep my eyes on as well.
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What do you think? Which Lions rookie will have the most impact in 2020? Who will have the better long term impact? Who are you most excited to watch? Make sure to tell us in the comment section below.