Not exactly the news that Detroit Lions fans were wanting to see from ESPN.
The national sports outlet released their listed compilation of each NFL team’s “under 25” talent; the Detroit Lions came in at No. 26, which is an eight spot drop from this time a year ago.
However, there is reason for optimism. According to author Scott Spratt, the Lions boast two “blue chip” players in center Frank Ragnow and cornerback Jeff Okudah.
“Okudah has the ideal physical traits to become a shutdown corner,” Spratt writes, “and if his brother and Lions teammate Romeo is any indication, Okwara could quickly add the size and strength to become a prototypical NFL pass-rusher.
“Middle linebacker Jahlani Tavai and strong safety Will Harris have already demonstrated their three-down abilities with strong 59% and 53% respective coverage success rates as part-time players in their rookie seasons. Add to them a healthy pass-rusher in Da’Shawn Hand, who missed the majority of 2019 with various elbow and ankle injuries, and the Lions are poised for rapid defensive improvements.”
Spratt also lists recent draft picks T.J. Hockenson and D’Andre Swift among Detroit’s young talent:
“An ankle injury cut Hockenson’s rookie season short, but his pre-draft promise offers hope that he can become a plus contributor as both a receiver and a blocker,” Spratt writes. “Ironically, Swift does not possess the top-end speed to score from anywhere on the field, but he is quick and decisive and provides a three-down ability that the Lions have lacked despite recent draft investments in backs including Kerryon Johnson and Ty Johnson.”
Do you agree with where they’ve ranked the “under 25” talent of the Lions?
– – Quotes via Scott Spratt of ESPN Link – –
