Are the Detroit Lions showing signs of life?

I stepped away from writing posts on this site because of how depressing it was to watch two children (Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn) run an already disaster organization further into the ground. My last post visited my thoughts on the Detroit Lions and I expressed that Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn should be fired immediately. It took a little over a month, but my wishes were finally granted. I could talk about how terrible the two were, but I would be repeating what you already know and feel. Let’s talk about Brad Holmes, Dan Campbell, moves they have made, and what I think about their draft selections.

Player-Friendly Staff

Dan Campbell, Head Coach

(WDIV)

Moving completely away from a ‘hard-nosed’ and ‘Patriot way’ clown, the Lions hired Dan Campbell as their head coach. As a former tight-end in the NFL (also played for Detroit), he does have experience being a head coach with his time as the interim head coach for the Miami Dolphins, along with his time recently in New Orleans as Sean Payton’s assistant. Lots of fans were really interested in former 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, but I’m sure that almost everyone has come around on this guy. Dan Campbell understands Detroit and wants to be here. He has passion for not only the game, but our city. His press conferences are must-see TV, as every sentence he says could be a headline in the paper. Sure, he hasn’t coached a game for the Detroit Lions yet, but I am sipping the Kool-Aid because of Coach Campbell’s energy.

Brad Holmes, General Manager

The Atlantic

Since 2016, the only picks that were key players for the Detroit Lions are Taylor Decker (’16, 1st round), Kenny Golladay (’17, 3rd round), Frank Ragnow (’18, 1st round), and TJ Hockenson (’19, 1st round). Other than that, you have picks like Jarrad Davis, Teez Tabor, Kerryon Johnson, Jahlani Tavai, and A’Shawn Robinson as guys that Quinn selected that have been complete busts for Detroit (Leaving out the 2020 draft because they deserve to play for an actual coach before I write them off). Now let’s talk about Brad Holmes.

Coming over from the Los Angeles Rams, Brad Holmes was their director of collegiate scouting. He has some responsibility with selections like Cooper Kupp, John Johnson, Troy Reeder, Gerald Everett, and Jordan Fuller (all non-first round selections). Since 2016, the Rams have not had a first round pick (where the selected Jared Goff), and have not had a losing record, along with an appearance to the Super Bowl in 2018. People who have worked with Brad Holmes had nothing but great things to say about him, which I was unable to find anyone saying things about Bob Quinn. The only thing I found was Bill Belichick saying that Bob Quinn did a “solid” job in New England. Brad Holmes is hopefully the opposite of Bob Quinn, in that he drafts with a brain. I don’t want him to feel like he is the smartest guy in the room (like taking Tavai in the 2nd round). After watching his first draft closely, I get a sense that he knows what he is doing, and I am able to drink the Kool-Aid for this hire as well.

Coordinators and Assistants

Leading the offense for the Lions is Anthony Lynn, former head-coach of the Los Angeles Chargers. Before that, he worked with the Jets, Cowboys, Jaguars, Browns, Broncos, and Bills as primarily their running backs coach. With the amount of 1,000 yard rushers that he has worked with, I am excited to see how DeAndre Swift will run in his offense. His assistants include Mark Brunell (QB Coach), Duce Staley (RB Coach), and Antwaan Randle El (WR Coach). All former players in the NFL that most fans are familiar with.

Defensively, Aaron Glenn comes to Detroit as their defensive coordinator. Another former player, Glenn was hired from New Orleans, where he served as their defensive backs coach. This should excite fans because of the players that he coached in New Orleans, which include Marshon Lattimore, Marcus Williams, and Janoris Jenkins. With Jeff Okudah, Amani Oruwariye, and Tracy Walker, it will be interesting to see how improved our defense will look next year with a new scheme.

Offseason

The biggest trade was the Stafford deal, where the Lions received Jared Goff, a 2021 3rd round pick, a 2022 1st, and a 2023 1st. Though Stafford is an huge upgrade, one of those 1sts have to be for the Lions taking on Jared Goff’s insane contract. Regardless, the Lions are on the hook to pay Goff until there is an out after the 2022 season. Most people believe that the Lions will draft a QB next season after they have an expected down year.

Another deal that most people do not know is the trade for DT Michael Brockers from the Rams. Though the Lions did draft two DT in rounds 2 and 3 of the draft, Brockers will be both a leader in the locker room and will allow for our two rookies to learn and develop under him.

With Stafford leaving, we also watched Kenny Golladay sign to the New York Giants and Marvin Jones sign to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Justin Coleman, Desmond Trufant, Duron Harmon, and Danny Shelton are also no longer with the Detroit Lions. Most notably also is Matt Prater. The starting lineup for the Detroit Lions in 2021 will be very different than last year’s, and it will not be better talent wise.

On offense, the Lions added WR’s Breshad Perriman, Germino Allison, Tyrell Williams, RB Jamaal Williams, and most likely TE Darren Fells (deal not done as of 5/5/2021). On the flip side, the Lions acquired a few depth pieces on defense but did not make any real splashes in free agency. This is expected with a new regime that is probably trying to get our cap situation under control. I would expect that the following couple years result in a couple of paydays for major talent.

Draft

I will go into a deeper dive on the picks individually in a separate post. However, I do want to say that I like what Detroit did in the draft. Sure, I would want to see Waddle, Smith, Parsons, or Fields in a Lions jersey because they would be the ‘sexy’ pick, rather than the ‘right’ pick in my mind. Sewell in the first is a blessing that not many fans will realize but soon will in a Quinton Nelson-esque way after he becomes a star. Building a top offensive line will allow Detroit to give Jared Goff a true chance, or draft a QB next year and not have a Joe Burrow situation where he is not protected. This pick was great long-term for the Lions, which is what they need.

The Detroit Lions took DT Levi Onwuzurike in the second round, and both DT Alim McNeil and CB Ifeatu Melifonwu in the third round. With Dan Campbell announcing that Detroit will be mostly in a 3 man front, this allows for a constant rotation of Brockers, Penisini, and the two rookies which will keep the defensive front fresh. Melifonwu’s tackling ability may allow him to see some time on the field as a nickel corner, which would help replace Justin Coleman’s role.

In the fourth round, Detroit selected Amon-Ra St. Brown, who also could see significant time due to the lack of talent that the current WR’s have shown. With all three of Detroit’s top targets gone (Amendola, Golladay, and Jones), I would expect to see St. Brown used in several sets on offense. The pick following Amon-Ra was LB Derrick Barnes, who is the type of player you would expect to catch Dan Campbell’s eye, a hard-nosed, pedal-to-the-metal type player. Barnes will most likely be primarily a special teams guy, until he develops into rotational EDGE/LB for the Lions.

With their last pick, the Lions selected RB Jermar Jefferson. I was surprised to see him last this long because I figured a team that was interested in a burner-type running back would grab him earlier, but Detroit was able to select him in the 7th. What this tells me is that they are moving on from Adrian Peterson, and probably Kerryon Johnson. Draft capital is important, but I think either Jefferson will return kicks for Detroit or serve as their RB3 behind Jamaal Williams.

Expectations

Less talent, better coaching. That is what I am thinking. A quick look at the schedule, I would say that the Lions are a 3-5 win team. Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Denver are all POSSIBLE wins. The problem is that I would like for Detroit to be in the 1-3 range in next year’s draft to take Sam Howell or Spencer Rattler. Surely there will be a Joe Burrow/Zach Wilson type riser in next year’s class, but the Lions will take a QB next year. A three win season will end with the Lions taking a top QB and also using the other first to grab a WR or LB will also be in play. This season will be interesting for the Lions, but I would recommend to fans that if they expect to win, then not to watch. This is a full rebuild that will take 2-3 seasons, but I do believe that this organization has taken the correct steps in beginning the process.

Be sure to follow the page and comment below on your thoughts. The more interaction, the more I am motivated to push out content for people to call me an idiot for. Thanks for reading.

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My Thoughts on the Detroit Lions

Matt Patricia

Tim Fuller/ USA Today Sports

The ship carrying my support for Matt Patricia has sailed. Entering the 2020 season, most Lions fans knew he was on the hot seat. Currently holding a 10-25-1 record, Matt Patricia will be fired unless a magical force leads this team to at least a playoff win. Making it in as a wildcard is not enough at this point. I do believe that Patricia has matured as a head coach over his 3 years here in Detroit, but this team is on a downward spiral. Yesterday’s loss against an injured Saints team after being up 14-0 in the first shows the incompetence, lack of will, and simply horrendous display of football from the point of Golladay’s touchdown in the first quarter to the end of the game. I will say that 29 points should be enough to win. Allowing a 41-year-old QB to navigate a defense without his #1 receiver laughable. Latavius Murray and Alvin Kamara were picking up yards at will. The Saints defense generated 3 sacks, 7 QB hits, and an interception. Stafford threw for just over 200 yards against that Saints defense who were without both of their starting corners. The Lions offense looked atrocious, the defense even more so.

This leads to question whether this is a schematic issue or a management issue. To answer that, it’s both. This scheme does not work. The man coverage does not work. The lack of pressure the opposing QB does not work. The star player for the Lions is Jack Fox, the punter. The defensive line did not make the improvements I expected transitioning from last year to this year. The Lions are still not controlling the ball on offense. Their 3rd down efficiency is garbage. Their red zone efficiency is garbage. Every opponent has more 1st downs than the Lions. The Lions average over 6 penalties a game. Mitch Trubisky is not even a starter anymore and threw for 3 TD’s against the Lions in week 1. Actually looking back, he is actually 3-0 vs the Lions with 753 yards and 9 TD’s in his short career. The Lions’ lead back is Adrian Peterson, who signed with Detroit a week before their first game. Kerryon Johnson, 2nd round pick in 2018, is getting limited touches. DeAndre Swift, 2nd round pick in 2020, is getting limited touches. The Lions also drafted Ty Johnson and Jason Huntley. So with 4 picks spent on the position in the last 2 years, the Lions are using 35 year-old AP as their bell-cow back. Something isn’t adding up. Besides from week 1, as a collective, the Lions have not rushed for over 100 yards.

The passing attack hasn’t improved. This can be due to Kenny Golladay’s injury earlier in the season, however, Stafford has not thrown for over 300 yards in any of the games this year. Along with this, Stafford’s completion percentages from week 1 to week 4 are as followed: 57%, 60%, 70%, 54%. Clearly, there is an outlier. A 70% completion percentage against the Cardinals week 3, and well, they won that game. That was also the only game that Stafford didn’t throw a pick. Weird. I will say that Stafford is not the problem in my opinion. Stafford is a top QB in the NFL but is being held hostage by this disaster of a team.

My verdict for Matt Patricia is that he needs to be fired. There is no improvement. Darrell Bevell will most likely as the interim head coach for the remainder of the 2020-21 season. If 9-7 wasn’t good enough, then what is Bob Quinn thinking about Patricia’s 10-25-1 record?

Bob Quinn

 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

As much as I have liked Quinn’s drafts, it does not make up for how long he has held onto Patricia for. Quinn said himself that 9-7 is not enough, but his buddy has not even come close to 9 wins. It is a disappointment. This team is built to be a contender. It has a QB, a few solid RB’s, an underrated WR in Golladay, a future star in Hockenson, and pieces that will hopefully come together on the offensive line. The defense has question marks. First, the defensive line has been added to, just lacks production. I have liked what I have seen from LB Jamie Collins, still not a fan of his ejection week 1. We can only hope that Okudah, Walker, and Tavai end up being foundational pieces that the next GM can build off of. Other than the Davis and Tabor picks, I have been satisfied with Quinn’s drafts. Would I have liked Ed Oliver over TJ, sure. I do believe that if Josh Allen dropped past the Jaguars last year, we would have selected him. At least, that is what I hoped he would have done.

My verdict of Bob Quinn is that he will be gone at the conclusion of the 2020-21 season. The only way he survives is by firing Patricia this week and allows Bevell to showcase the talent this team has.

Replacements

via Colts.com

I’m in the belief that if you want someone fired, you should mention who you want to replace them. In saying so, I will be compiling a list of possible hires that Detroit will make, and who I believe will lead this team in the right direction. First, the GM position needs to be filled. There are a few names circulating, however, I was hoping that Bob Quinn would have been fired last year and be replaced with Ed Dobbs, the assistant GM for the Colts. Luckily, Dobbs remained in Indy, and unfortunately, Quinn remained in Detroit. I think Dobbs is the best case scenario for this team. Again, I will be making a separate article highlighting why I like Dobbs, while also adding a couple of other candidates.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Once the GM job gets filled, I think it’s most likely that they will grab someone from the organization they are coming from. In the Dobb’s scenario, I would like him to bring over Matt Eberflus, the defensive coordinator in Indy. The Colts have had one of the top defenses in the NFL that last few years, and grabbing two guys that contributed to that will be monumental for Detroit. Another name to keep in mind is Robert Saleh, who has been one of the leading candidates to land a head coaching gig following his run as the 49ers defensive coordinator.

Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group

If you have any names around the NFL that you think would be great takeover in Detroit, leave a comment, and I will add them to my list, which will be posted in the coming week. Detroit is off this next week, but will return October 18th to faceoff with the Jacksonville Jaguars. If all goes well this week, it will be Bevell’s first game as head coach of the Detroit Lions.

Detroit Lions 2020 7-Round Mock Draft

After an incredibly disappointing 2019 season, the Lions find themselves drafting 3rd overall in this years draft. With there being three “elite” prospects in Burrow, Young, and Tagovailoa, the Lions could possibly be sitting on a gold-mine with teams looking to move up for Tua. Teams that are being expected to purse the Lions’ pick are the Dolpins, Chargers, Panthers, and Raiders. In this mock, the Lions will be accepting a trade with the Dolphins.

TRADE: DET sends 1.03 to MIA for MIA 1.05, 1.26 (via HOU), and 3.07

1.05 (via MIA) – Jeffery Okudah, CB, Ohio State

Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Jeffrey Okudah has the skill-set either take over duties at CB1 for the Lions if Slay is moved, or form one of the most dangerous trios in football with Slay/Okudah/Coleman. Okudah has been compared to Marshon Lattimore, both OSU alumni, and if the Lions can grab someone of Lattimore’s caliber, that is well worth a top-5 pick. With the Lions playing the most man coverage in the NFL, getting the best man-to-man corner is a no-brainer. Okudah showcases his ability to mirror routes with his insane statistics, coming from PFF. He has only allowed six 15+ yard completions over 400 snaps. While on the boundary, Okudah has only allowed first downs on 20% of his 93 targets since 2018.

1.26 (via MIA) – Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU

Julie Toles, TCU Athletics

Blacklock is a 6’4, 305lb monster. He is able to use his strength to power through gaps and get after opposing QB’s. The Lions struggles to apply pressure on passers last season was evident. With the departures of Damon ‘Snacks’ Harrison and possibly A’Shawn Robinson, the Lions will need to fill a massive hole on the defensive line. Using the draft capital gained from trading out of the 3rd overall pick allows the Lions to get a high end talent.

2.35 – Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame

Rick Kimball/ISD

With the third pick for the Lions, we are going to bolster the defense again with a pass rushing specialist. Julian Okwara is has the speed and bend to get around the edge and produce sacks. Experts suggest that he would be best used in a 3-4 front with flexibility, which would be a perfect fit for the Lions. I would like to get an instant starter this early in the second round, but plugging in an edge rusher day one is not that common. Rotating Okwara into the game on passing downs would allow him to shine best in 2020, while he develops into a true three down defender improving his run defense.

 

3.67 – Ben Bartch, OT, St. John’s

AJ Shulte/Pro Football Network

D-III athlete in the third round? Bartch is more than capable playing at the next level. He was able to elevate his draft stock with his outstanding performance at the Senior Bowl, which Matt Patricia witnessed first-hand. Although he was on the South team, it was evident that Bartch held his own against some of the premier pass-rushers entering this year’s draft. Bartch is not going to be a plug and play OT off the rip, but he can develop into a solid tackle for the Lions if Decker/Crosby do not take a positive step in 2020.

3.70 – Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports, USA TODAY Sports)

The first of my two receivers the Lions taking is an excellent talent, who if were in year’s prior drafts, would likely be a late first/early second prospect. Denzel Mims can be a QB’s best friend with his ability to catch nearly every ball you throw his way. An aging Marvin Jones and Danny Amendola leaves question marks on the future of the receiving group for Matt Stafford, but giving him Mims will provide a future WR2 who can fill Jones’ role.

4.99 – Shane Lemieux, IOL, Oregon

Andrew Doughty, Oregon Athletics

Since the departure of TJ Lang, the Lions offensive line has not been up to par with where it needs to be to make a step at being a serious contender. Lemieux is at the worst, a depth piece. He can contribute best in a power run scheme, which is great for Kerryon and Bo. Just as there are question marks at RT, there are also concerns with both of the guard spots. Shane has great power and shows it off on film. He has a place in the NFL as a future starter.

5.131 – David Woodward, LB, Utah State

Wade Denniston, USU Athletic Media Relations

This has potential to be an awesome pick or a wasted pick with Woodward’s injury history. He suffered a vertebrae fracture and several concussions in college, which will raise concerns for NFL GM’s. However, his upside is worth the risk. If taken, the Lions can sit on Woodward, allow his body to full heal for another year, and then plug him into the MIKE spot after they get rid of the disappointment that is Jarad Davis. Scouts recommend providing him with a solid interior line that will prevent blockers reaching him, which I do not believe will be a problem given that the Lions should grab some DT’s in free agency, along with drafting Blacklock.

5.154 – Antoine Brooks, S, Maryland

Maryland Football

Trading Quandre Diggs mid-2019 season showed serious concerns over who is going to take his place, but also showed how much the front office believes in Tracy Walker and Will Harris. Adding depth here in the fifth round with Brooks gives the Lions a safety that has incredible tackling ability with the added trait of being able to be a solid nickel defender.

6.162 – Anthony Gordon, QB, Washington State

Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

One can dream that Gordon falls this far. The thing about Gordon is that he will be lumped in as a system QB, similar to how Minshew was last season. Last year, I mocked Minshew to the Lions. I enjoyed Minshew’s personality and game. What I see in Gordon is a guy that can exploit defenses WHEN he is on fire. Being a one year starter, he still needs time to acclimate himself to the speed of the game, especially moving from the PAC-12 to the NFL. However, I believe he will be able to come in and be a better back-up to Stafford than those who have been the last few years.

 

 

The Trials and Tribulations of Michigan Sports

Last October I address my thoughts on Michigan sports as a whole, and I feel like I should revisit and explain my updated stance on our local teams.

Detroit Lions

Every year, I have hope. I pray to the supernatural that just maybe the Lions will make a run for it all. All I think now is the 30 for 30 that will come out about how the Lions are cursed without even being cursed. You had great terrible teams come out of the muck, the Cubs won a World Series, the Red Sox turned it around, the damn Browns are now Super Bowl contenders. Where are the Lions? No where, that’s where. The Lions did the right things this off-season, but I hate saying how great we drafted without seeing any of these guys actually play on Sunday. We have an aging QB, absolutely no receiving depth, have no idea who is playing our other guard position, no opposite corner to Slay, and praying to the heavens that Tavai works out to be a great linebacker and Tracy Walker being a great safety. Our defensive line looks great, but other than that, the only thing I can look forward to is the memes on r/NFL to another possible failed 1st round tightend. It’s a shame, but I can’t look away. This team hypes me up only to break my heart.

Detroit Pistons

Can anyone explain to me what is going on here. Again, people are telling me it’s a great draft but come on. No way of knowing, at all, until the season starts. And I can’t help but recall that the Pistons were about to trade for Mike Conley, what a joke. Let’s put all of our cap space towards 3 players, who other than Blake Griffen, are not worth the check. I feel bad for Blake if I’m being honest. I don’t see how the Pistons will make a legitimate run in the East, and considering all of the stars are moving to the West, what a disaster. This team is a disaster.

Detroit Tigers

Check this out, the Tigers have a chance to not even get to 50 wins this year. Losing 100 games is sad, but losing 110 games, that’s another joke. A joke that we may be laughing about. I don’t give a shit about a rebuild, you should be able to win more than 50 games. The Tigers have won less than I’d say 6 series this season. I don’t even bother paying attention anymore because I’m better off watching a little league game. If tickets were free, I’d still probably not go.

Detroit Red Wings

Yay, Steve Yzerman is back. Maybe we can show up to play a game other than in the last month when we’re locked in on a top 3 pick. Who’s brain told them, you know what, instead of us giving ourselves a better chance next season with a higher rated prospect, lets win some games to completely destroy that. But hey, young team, Stevie Y, I’ll have to check with the hockey experts to find out how I should feel.

Michigan Wolverines

Yes, I’m aware that the baseball team is in the World Series. I’m talking about the football team running away from the College Football Playoff as fast as they could. Getting absolutely embarrassed by the Buckeyes, only to get even more embarrassed by the Gators. Jim Harbaugh finally passed the offense down to his offensive coordinator, so hopefully we can actually throw the ball more than 15 times a game. Oh, and the entire defense left so let’s see how that’s going to treat us. Maybe another 10 win season with some shitty bowl game will suffice. It’s unfortunate that fans are okay with that. Still baffles me.

Michigan State Spartans

I’m clearly a Wolverine fan but I hope that the Spartans can score more than 10 points a game. I wish that the Michigan vs State game would be more special than what it is now. Granted, the weather has caused the games to be a shit show that last few years, but can you imagine Lewerke throwing for 300 yards with that great defense behind him? State would be easily a top 10 team in the nation, but whoever is running that offense over there is either blind or incompetent because numbers don’t lie.

All in all, I feel like this is an accurate overview of our local teams. Not much to be excited for other than to be pissed off that we suck at the end of each season.

Brain Dead Local Sports Media (Inner Monologue vol. 5)

After the 2019 NFL Draft, all of the arm chair draft experts and Facebook general managers emerged out of their caves to create chaos. Don’t get me wrong, the draft could’ve been a lot prettier. Personally, I think this is a make or break draft for Bob Quinn. Regardless, I’m not going to act like I’ve scouted these kids for hundreds of hours. I’ve scouted them for a couple hours making my own mock drafts, but I’m not the expert. I pick who I want and who I think is best for the team. I picked Brian Burns to be a Lion, but I’m not upset with Hockenson. I picked Greedy in the second, but I’m not upset with the Tavai pick, just scratching my head a little bit.

Too many times I’ve seen, “But no tightend should be picked that high” or “No linebackers are good from the second round historically” or “Ebron didn’t work” or “We have no idea who that player is”. There is a reason you’re at home drinking beer and watching the games on TV and not in the front office, and I’m very glad that’s the way it is. You have to understand that you’re kind of a dumbass sometimes. I am as well, I own it. But I’m not going to be ignorant like saying Tavai won’t be good because I don’t know who he is. I didn’t know Kamara real well coming out of the draft two years ago, I didn’t know Darius Leonard last year, and this year I don’t know Tavai. Am I going to judge him based on that? No, I’m going to go watch his film and base my decision off that. I’m not going to listen to dumbasses on the radio or the paper tell me this was a reach because they have no damn clue. These “grades” on the draft have to do with made up mock drafts. No the Lions didn’t draft a guard. They picked one up after the draft. No they didnt grab a tackle, oh wait, they did, after the draft. They drafted a running back in the sixth round. I’m certain that no matter what the Lions did in the draft, people would still find a way to bitch about something, because that’s what Lions fans do, bitch.

Lastly, how the hell does anyone know how these players will end up in the NFL? If Tavai or Hock don’t work out, then fire Bob Quinn and hire me. I’m okay with that. Regardless, let’s put the bottle down, sober up a little bit, and stop bitching in April. We’ll have no idea until September. Thank you, god bless.

Who is Will Harris?

The Detroit Lions moved up from their pick in the third round at 88 to Minnesota’s 81st to grab Boston College’s safety Will Harris. I’m familiar with Harris, only because I bet on Boston College three times last fall. Though we need help at corner and edge, an inbox safety like Will Harris will be an incredible asset to the Lions secondary and special teams unit. The Lions were in the running for former New York Giant Landon Collins, but the deal fell through. With the loss of Glover Quin, the Lions needed some added depth and a possible solution if Tracy Walker doesn’t work out, although I’m certain he will be a solid starter.

Will Harris played four years at Boston College. In 47 total games, he accumulated 225 tackles, 7.5 of those being for loss, and 1 career sack. He also had 5 interceptions, 7 passes defended, 6 fumble recoveries, and a touchdown. I watched film on Will Harris against Florida State and NC State. My takeaways from what I saw was that Harris can be an effective hybrid safety/linebacker, best playing on or near the line of scrimmage. He has okay pass coverage skills, but nothing to be blown away with. The best thing about Harris is when he pressures the QB, he delivers a blow. This may or may not be a problem with the changing NFL rules to protect QB’s. The main problem I have with Harris is his open field tackling is iffy, and he is more of a hitter than a form tackler. Not a bad thing, but something to consider.

Overall, not a bad pick at 81. I think he will be a special teams star for us, before developing into a positive strong safety. I think we can see Harris be used similarly to how the Chargers use Derwin James. I’m happy about this pick.

Who is Jahlani Tavai?

I said the same thing honestly. I’ve been playing close attention to Day 1 and 2 players, but Tavai has not been one to be on my scouting list. I was ready, I was excited, I was going to be happy to hear Greedy Williams’ name said when our pick was announced. I was ready for Mack Wilson. I was ready for AJ Brown/DK Metcalf/Parris Campbell. Instead, Bob Quinn decided to go with Jahlani Tavai. I’ve done my research and am ready to give you some insight on who our 2nd round pick is.

Jahlani Tavai is a LB/EDGE from Hawaii where he played all four years, in 47 games. He recorded 390 total tackles in his career, with 41 of those being for a loss, and recording 16.5 sacks. He’s had a few All-Conference awards, and was 10th in the FBS in tackles in 2017 with 124. He’s obviously able to make tackles, but I have some concerns with him. First of all, he was arrested last June for assault at a night club. Secondly, he had a shoulder injury last year which kept him out for a some games. I watched his film from this year against Wyoming and San Jose State. I’m guessing 2018 was not his best season, so I went back to 2016 and watched him against Middle Tennessee. I’m not saying he is a bad player but I think taking him 43 is a bit of a reach. Here are my takeaways on Tavai.

Tavai has a nice frame at just under 6’3 and a solid 250lbs. He gets to his top speed quickly, but his top speed is not quick. Tavai is under the “quick but not fast” category. He’s one of those players that plays with a swagger, you’ll know what I mean when you see him. What I find interesting is his ability to rush the passer effectively and also his ability to drop back in coverage. What makes me scratch my head is that we need help covering backs and tight ends at linebacker, which Tavai is a zone cover linebacker. Regardless, the kid can tackle, no doubt about it. However, I see some serious redflags while watching him. He lines up as an edge occasionally, and he does well at mixing moves at the point of attack. What I find concerning is how stiff he is coming off the line. Another thing, which also impacts his inside linebacker play, is his lack of ability to get off blocks. Too many times I see him engage a blocker and is slow to get off the block to make a tackle. I’m worried about whether he will be able to chase a running back to the sideline and up the field. Lastly, he gets caught up at the line of scrimmage and can lose the ball carrier, which is really frustrating to watch.

What I can offer you is that New England was also interested in the kid, so he is wanted around the league. I don’t know about him being taken 43rd overall, because I think he’s going to be a project player. Patricia will hopefully groom him and that will allow him to be a solid inside linebacker for years to come. I’m not a big fan of this pick, so I’m praying the Lions made the right decision. Also praying we can grab David Long in the next round.

TJ Hockenson is not Eric Ebron, it’s okay

Look, I know you’re upset. Hear me out, we did not draft another Eric Ebron. TJ Hockenson is a dynamic TE. He is the “Y” TE that we need, which Ebron was an “F” TE. For reference, a Y TE is on the line next to tackles, while a F TE lines up in the slot and can line up in the backfield. Ebron was being used in Detroit as a Y, when he wasn’t much of a blocker. Since he has moved to Indy, look at what he has done since having more of an F role, it’s crazy when you use your players correctly, huh? Well now that we have Jesse James that could be an efficient F TE, Hockenson will be a great addition to our line and being a security blanket for Stafford. Now let me tell you about TJ himself.

At 6’5, 251lbs, Hockenson played TE for the Iowa Hawkeyes and was drafted by your Lions with the 8th pick of the NFL Draft. Lots of players were available here, so it would be pretty hard to fuck this up. TE is a need for the Lions, as is a CB, an EDGE, an OG, and a LB. All of these positions had players available, but having a player like Hockenson fall into your lap, it’s hard to pass on him. In 2018, Hockenson, a redshirt sophomore, played in 13 games, had 49 receptions for 760 yards and 6 touchdowns. These numbers don’t really jump off the screen at you but don’t forget that Noah Fant was drafted by the Denver Broncos 20th overall and was Hockenson’s teammate who also played TE. Fant had 39 receptions for 519 yards and 7 touchdowns. You throw half those balls to Hockenson and that’s when you’ll see how elite this kid actually is on paper. He plays at a high-level, comes from a school that has put out NFL TE talent, most notably George Kittle and Dallas Clark, and busts his ass.

Player comparisons aren’t that favorable for people, but Hockenson’s player comparison is to Kelce/Gronkowski. That’s one hell of a comparison, huh? Hockenson’s scouting report resembles Travis Kelce’s. “Good but not great athlete, big frame, physical blocker, and has the ability to stretch the field. Lacks explosive speed.” Hock will lineup next to the bigboys and block for our backs. Hell, two TE sets with James and Hock will be a deadly combination. My point is, put your pitchforks down, this is actually a decent pick for the Lions. It’s one of those that isn’t too flashy, but you’ll be glad to have him for the next 5 years. With that said, hopefully I convinced you. I will be doing more of these on each player the Lion’s draft, and then maybe some film room on each player. Thank you for your time, keep sippin that kool-aid.

Big Worm’s First 10

5 Days. That is what’s left until a kid’s dream of hearing their name called and walking across that stage in Nashville turns into a reality. A dream I once had, but lets be real. A 5’10 pulling guard…it was only just a dream. But for these 10 young men it is reality and its got me FIRED UP FOR FOOTBALL. So here is how the draft will go

Pick 1 – Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma

(Photo: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports)

Now don’t be surprised if the Cardinals trade down. If they do Kliff will have a short NFL career trying his style with Rosen. If they don’t trade, this is the pick that must be made. Cardinals pay Kliff, and then draft Bosa? What’s the point? Murray will go number 1. Murray can walk the dog, paint the back porch, fill up the gatorade coolers….oh yeah, AND HE CAN PASS.

Pick 2 – 49ers: Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State

(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

For the 49er fans out there I understand defense doesn’t make a splash but relax. We have yet to see a full season Jimmy G. (Needs less dinners with Kiara Mia and more film sessions) This allows you to have a top pass rush and now slide Thomas inside and woah…that is a scary D-Line. Have some faith in my boy Lynch in San Fran.

Pick 3 – The Gosh Darn New York Jets: WILL NOT GIVE PICK, JETS WILL TRADE

 (Photo: Julio Cortez, AP)

The gosh darn Jets are going to make the right decision and trade out of this pick. After making a jump to secure the future in Darnold last year. They will now look to gain draft capital, slide down the board, and find a playmaker in the secondary. Are the Jets being…I don’t know. A little Greedy?

Pick 4 – Oakland Raiders: Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky

(Photo: David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire, Getty)

Return of the Mack for Oakland. Not the same guy but close to it. Gruden pissed off every Raider fan when trading Mack and with this pick he will try to regain Raider Nation. And who doesn’t love an explosive 6’5 260 pound animal to help the defense? They sent the scouts home because they have me to help the franchise.

Pick 5 – Buccaneers: Quinnen Williams, IDL, Alabama

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

McCoy is over-paid and he under produced. To me, I smell a replacement and this team has holes all over the field. Williams has the ability to come in and be an immediate pro-bowler, and live in Qb’s face. Bucs get a steal here but everyone say a prayer for Williams. Nothing is wrong with him, this team is just a dumpster fire.

Pick 6 – Giants: Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State

(Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports)

Let’s state the obvious. The giants need a quarterback, if they don’t do this now, Saquan is done after 4 years and after that rookie season…we want to see Barkley have a long healthy career. The Giants won’t pass this kid up, 50 touchdowns and just shy of 5K passing yards? Time for New York to start MANNING up and replace him already.

Pick 7 – Jaguars: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida

(Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)

This is a team with the same core roster that reached the AFC championship just 2 seasons ago. With an upgrade at quarterback, a full season Fournette, and a new set of eyes for Foles blind side. The Jags would hit HUGE here and could find themselves back into the playoffs. Jags take Taylor and trend in the right direction.

Pick 8 – Detroit Lions: Devin White, LB, LSU

(Photo: Rick Scuteri, Associated Press)

For all my Lions fans, this may not be exciting. But what the team did in the off-season was exciting. They got a edge rusher in Flowers, snagged Jesse James at tight end, and even added Justin Coleman to create turnovers. So to bring this all together. Another do it all 3 down backer to play along Davis and solidify the defense. Devin said it himself. The 2 could work great together.

Pick 9 – Buffalo Bills: Ed Oliver, IDT, Houston

(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

Good job Buffalo, you got Ed Oliver at pick 9. Now if only we could address your running back room that is turning into a senior citizen home and the receivers you don’t have we can fix this! NOT, this team is in big trouble. I tried to have the GM keys thrown to me last season but it got picked off when they still had Peterman.

Pick 10 – Broncos: Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama

(Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports)

This makes too much sense. Elway played quarterback so he gets it. If he wants to see Flacco enter whatever prime he feels he has left, he has to at least protect the vet. He’s getting old! This is the perfect fit, the next Joe Thomas here. (Just hopefully more wins)

Can’t wait to watch the draft and see everything unfold. Stay tuned for team grades and tune in to the Suite Life of Worm & Willy to hear everything sports on Soundcloud. @WormFrayer

This article brought to you by Bud Light.

 

Don’s Top 45 Players in 2019 NFL Draft

Shoutout to The Draft Network for the easy to use tool. Here is my FINAL Big Board before the NFL Draft. My Big Board is based on who I think is the best players in the draft, not necessarily when they will be drafted. Last year I picked Derwin James to be the best player in the draft, which I was basically correct about, kind of. This year I will be going with Brian Burns. I have him mocked to the Lions, so I pray they don’t mess this up. Here it is: