As free agency winds down, the Detroit Lions will focus their attention on the NFL Draft and filling their remaining needs.
Defensively, while Detroit has strengthened its secondary, there is still room for improvement in the pass rush. Given the limited resources available this summer, it stands to reason that the Lions will prioritize that position in the draft.
As the draft approaches, ESPN insiders Matt Miller and Jordan Reid (subscription required) assessed each team’s top three remaining needs. Unsurprisingly, defense remains high on the list for the Lions, with cornerback, edge rusher, and wide receiver filling their three most important remaining requirements for
As for Detroit’s ideal draft pick outside of Round 1, Reid identified Western Michigan Marshawn Kneeland.
“Kneeland’s versatility would allow him to move all across the defensive front, and he has the strong hands to collapse the pocket and finish plays as a pass-rusher, as well as the edge against the run.”
The Lions need a running mate for Aidan Hutchinson, and Kneeland impressed playing with the Broncos in his career, posting 12.5 sacks, 149 tackles and 28 tackles for-loss. After a stellar NFL Combine, he is on the radar as a potential first-round selection this month, potentially in the wheelhouse of Detroit’s 29th pick.
Marshawn Kneeland represents Detroit Lions’ ideal draft pass rusher
Kneeland isn’t a fit simply because he went to Western Michigan. He has the qualities that the Lions crave in terms of toughness, versatility and mentality.
Kneeland not only has the same physical characteristics as the Lions, but he also speaks like one of the squad members. Kneeland discussed his personality during his interview at the NFL Combine.
“As a person, I am tranquil. I aim to maintain a balance between being too high and too low to avoid attracting unpredictable individuals. “I am trying to be the same cat every day.”
The Lions have established a locker room of like-minded athletes. Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes adopted a consistent method to create their roster. Kneeland appears to suit that template.
