As the 2024 NFL Draft Scouting Combine kicks into gear in Indianapolis, the Detroit Lions, along with other franchises, are in pursuit of the next wave of talent that will shape the future of the NFL. Within this context of anticipation and high stakes, NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper has made his latest predictions, spotlighting Iowa State cornerback T.J. Tampa as the 29th overall pick for the Lions in the first round.
Why Kiper Picks Tampa for the Lions
Kiper’s choice of Tampa for the Lions is particularly striking against the backdrop of prevailing expert opinions. T.J. Tampa stands out not only for his potential but also for the immediate impact Kiper believes he can bring to the team. “Here’s a corner who might be going a little under the radar,” Kiper suggests, emphasizing Tampa’s day-one readiness and extensive exposure to nearly 900 coverage snaps in college.
Here’s a corner who might be going a little under the radar. Tampa can start for a team from day one. He played nearly 900 coverage snaps for the Cyclones, and he saw every route. After giving up four touchdown passes as the nearest defender in coverage in 2021, he allowed only three in the next two seasons. He made a massive improvement in 2023. Although Tampa had only three interceptions in college, I think he could be more productive in the NFL.
Detroit, as I wrote in my mock draft in January, struggled in the secondary last season, ranking 30th in passing yards allowed to receivers (3,081). This is where it can get an instant starter.
Tampa’s Collegiate Performance
Tampa has demonstrated notable growth throughout his time with the Cyclones. From allowing four touchdown passes in 2021, he improved significantly to permit only three in the subsequent two seasons. Despite a college career that saw him notch up only three interceptions, Kiper sees a player whose best days are ahead of him, especially within the professional ranks.
Lions’ Secondary Needs
The Detroit Lions faced considerable challenges in their secondary last season, ranking 30th in the league in terms of passing yards allowed to receivers. This vulnerability makes the cornerback position a critical area of focus for the team in the upcoming draft, with Kiper viewing Tampa as the key to revitalizing Detroit’s defensive backfield.
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- T.J. Tampa is highlighted by Mel Kiper Jr. as a potential first-round pick for the Detroit Lions at No. 29.
- Tampa’s extensive experience and marked improvement in coverage at Iowa State underline his readiness for the NFL.
- The Lions’ need for a robust cornerback is acute, following a season where their secondary struggled significantly.
The Bottom Line – A Strategic Fit
Should Kiper’s projection materialize, T.J. Tampa’s drafting by the Detroit Lions could significantly shore up a secondary in dire need of reinforcement. As the NFL continues to evolve into a pass-centric league, the value of a proficient cornerback cannot be overstated. Tampa’s potential addition to the Lions could be a pivotal move, addressing a glaring need while setting the stage for a more competitive defensive stance in future seasons.
