The Detroit Lions have long sought out depth along the defensive line, and it's been one of the biggest issues the franchise has faced the last few years as they have fallen short of their ultimate goal.
Every champion as well as championship contender has a stable of players along the defensive front that can play a variety of roles. They have quality depth, not only possessing stars, but valuable role players as well. The Lions have been trying to create this kind of roster mix for some time.
This year, the Lions may finally have the kind of players that can contribute those kind of results. In April, the Lions drafted Skyler Gill-Howard out of Texas Tech. He was seen as a solid flier option because of his size, skill and ability in the middle of the line that could translate to a potential league role.
So far in training camp, Gill-Howard hasn't wasted any time impressing. He has made waves in recent practices, and MLive.com's Benjamin Raven detailed some of the most impressive things he was able to do during a recent practice that opened some eyes.
"Gill-Howard popped twice with that twitchiness we've heard about since the Lions drafted him in the sixth-round back in April. The rookie got some chances higher in the order, and made the most of them. Gill-Howard got through reserve center Michael Niese to get in quarterback Luke Altmyer's face for the pressure on a quick slip out of the slot to Tom Kennedy. Not long after. he emerged from the middle of the line to finally get the sack on Altmyer."
"With the preseason on the horizon, it's always a good sign when a rookie's number gets written down more. it might not seem like a lot, but it was nice to see some of the things from Gill-Howard many were talking about -- quick movements and strong hands."
Detroit has needed someone to step up for depth's sake for the last few years, and there is a big opportunity for plenty of players to take a leap forward this season. The franchise has waited on higher profile picks like Levi Onwuzurike and previously Josh Paschal to emerge, but it's been more of a mixed bag on that front.
The more underrated Gill-Howard seems to be hitting the ground running as a rookie, which bodes well for the impact he can potentially make this season. Obviously, he will be a player to monitor closely the rest of camp and the preseason.
Jack Campbell approves of Gill-Howard's fit within Lions' defense
Can a rookie make a big impact for a team that wants to take a step toward championship contention? It's very possible, and could be even more of the case if he is able to carry over some of the momentum from practice to the preseason.
Campbell, who played a huge role himself as a rookie and is now the unquestioned leader of the defense, has been impressed with Gill-Howard already. He sees his abilities and talents, and believes he has a very unique feel to his game that could translate quickly.
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"I feel like he can do a lot of things at the three-technique position a lot of guys can't do. Every player's a little bit different, but I kind of feel like (he has a Mekhi) Wingo feel (to his game). So, we'll see where it goes. But, I mean, he's done a good job. (He) just needs to keep going."
Ironically, Wingo will be one of the top players battling Gill-Howard for attention and snaps during the preseason. If both players have a similar game and identical gritty styles, it will ensure that the cream will rise to the top when it comes time to make roster decisions for the rotation.
Right now, it's hard not to be encouraged with what Gill-Howard has been able to do in a limited amount of time.
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