Articles:
Rogers: Four thoughts on the Lions’ NFL Draft haul (Return of the fullback - In that 2015 draft class, the Lions selected fullback Michael Burton in the fifth round. He did a good job in his role, including special-teams contributions, but the Lions, like many other teams around the NFL, opted to dump the position from the offensive scheme, cutting Burton last May. That decision is on track to be reversed with the selection of Nick Bawden in the seventh round on Saturday. The lead blocker for a 2,000-yard back each of the past two seasons, he could be a under-the-radar piece to the puzzle as Detroit to seeks long-lost balance on offense. Even though the Lions largely maintained continuity on the offensive coaching staff this offseason, the potential reincorporation of a fullback has Matt Patricia’s thumbprint on it. Look to New England, where the fullback remains an integral part of the team’s scheme. In 2012, the team signed James Develin, a former undrafted free agent, and he’s been on the field more than 250 snaps four of the past five seasons, missing the fifth year due to injury.) (4-29-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/29/rogers-four-thoughts-lions-nfl-draft-haul/34384147/
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
2018 NFL draft: Lions use final pick on San Diego State fullback Nick Bawden (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_use_final.html
Lions bring back eliminated position with Bawden (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-bring-back-fullback-drafting-nick-bawden/562282002/
LIONS Lions draft FB Nick Bawden in 7th round (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-nick-bawden/561204002/
Lions add 'physical presence': SDSU FB Nick Bawden (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/san-diego-state-fb-nick-bawden-lions-seventh-round-pick/34361053/
Meet Lions’ Day 3 NFL Draft picks (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/meet-lions-day-3-nfl-draft-picks/34350821/
A CLOSER LOOK: Fullback Nick Bawden (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Fullback-Nick-Bawden/a9483cc8-53c6-4170-9066-103f78d8c51d
Lions draft fullback Nick Bawden (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Lions-draft-fullback-Nick-Bawden/e3e6ac66-c114-4c6a-905a-04c19e63deac
Roster impact of the Lions drafting FB Nick Bawden (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-fb-nick-bawden/
Twitter reacts to Lions drafting fullback Nick Bawden (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/twitter-reacts-to-lions-drafting-fullback-nick-bawden/
Videos:
Watch highlights of Lions Seventh Round Draft Pick, Nick Bawden.: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Nick-Bawden-Highlights/75a96835-1d79-4a96-9c5b-d346636d3501
Conference call: Nick Bawden: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Nick-Bawden/eab03c9e-1727-40f2-816d-a4d2014d7207
Analyzing Detroit's moves on the final day of the NFL draft (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/analyzing_detroits_moves_on_th.html
Sunday, April 29, 2018
Tyrell Crosby Links from after the Draft
Articles:
Greg Gabriel: 7 NFL draft Day 3 steals (Tyrell Crosby – OT – Oregon – Detroit – Fifth Round: Crosby was an All Pac-12 performer at Oregon and a multi-year starter. He had experience as a starter at both right and left tackle. His tape was excellent, but his Senior Bowl week was a little disappointing. Still, he lasted until the fifth round, where the Detroit Lions selected him. I felt that, at worst, Crosby was a second-round talent. That said, he had a foot injury that caused him to miss most of 2016. The after effects of that injury might be the reason he lasted so late in the draft.) (5-1-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/05/01/48977298/index.xml?page=1
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Tyrell Crosby: “Showed the core and lower body strength to generate power through his hips as a drive and angle blocker. Ran his feet on contact showing the needed sustaining and finishing movement. Played low with excellent leverage and balance-body control as a run blocker. Utilized at times as an inside puller in the gap scheme run game. Efficient with compact movement working to the second level in the run game. “Much more of a power-strength pass protector than an athletic-movement pass protector. Very strong hands to control pass rushers when he engaged early in the down. Lacks top level quickness and lateral movement as a pass protector but very efficient staying square and using his hands rarely giving up the edge. “Played with physicality and competitive toughness showing a nasty edge at times. Overall an outstanding run blocker with the strength to move the defensive line. “Very desirable combination of size and power. His size and build are likely better suited to play inside at guard at the next level. His competitiveness and physical approach combined with his drive and angle blocking ability also project better inside. “There will be teams depending on run game concepts and pass game design that will project Crosby at tackle and my sense is he could be effective outside given his size-length and power, but I believe he has the physical and competitive traits to be an All-Pro OG in the NFL.”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
2018 NFL draft recap: The best and riskiest Lions picks, and what's left to do (Biggest sleeper: The Lions didn't head into Day 3 expecting to draft another offensive lineman. But they didn't expect Tyrell Crosby to last more than five picks that day either. He didn't allow a sack last year. He was named the best offensive lineman in the Pac-12. And Quinn was shocked to see him still there when Detroit was back on the clock in the fifth round. It seems Crosby's concussion history contributed to his fall, but if he's healthy -- and he insists he is -- the Lions got a lot of value here. Remember how the offense fell apart because of the injuries up front last year? In Crosby, they add a reliable pass protector with experience at both left and right tackle, and some believe could play inside as well. You just don't usually see this kind of resume in a fifth-round pick, and as long as he isn't plagued by more concussion problems, this could prove to be the underrated move of the draft.) (4-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_recap_the_best.html
Top 10 steals of the 2018 NFL draft (Tyrell Crosby: There weren’t many prospects in this draft who are ready to be a starting left tackle almost immediately in the NFL, but Crosby was one of them. That made it a huge shock when he lasted until midway through Day 3, where the Lions wisely snatched him up. He was announced as a guard, which means the Lions will likely try him there first (it’s a bigger need for them at the moment), but Crosby’s versatility only adds to his value, which should have had him off the board much earlier.) (4-29-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/29/nfl-draft-top-10-steals/7/
NFL Draft: A Round 5 to Remember (The Lions halted Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby's fall at pick No. 153. It's unclear why a first-round talent plummeted but it's easy to see how he fits in Detroit's drafting of power players to help a one-dimensional offense develop an edge. Crosby was a second-rounder in Gabriel's estimation and could fight for early playing time inside or be the eventual heir to T.J. Lang.) (4-28-17): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-a-round-5-to-remember/a65dut9/
2018 NFL draft: Biggest steals and reaches from Day 3 (Steal - Crosby: No matter if you play him inside or on the edge, Crosby has the potential to be a high-end starter at multiple positions on the offensive line. Crosby was considered by many analysts to be a top-100 selection and come into a locker room to compete for starting reps. Instead, Crosby fell to the middle of Day 3 and landed in an excellent position for the long-term future of the Detroit Lions. Long arms with great lower body strength, Crosby will begin his career as a swing tackle with the opportunity to compete for a starting role sooner rather than later.) (4-28-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/2018-nfl-draft-biggest-steals-and-reaches-from-day-3/2/
Roster impact of the Lions drafting OL Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-ol-tyrell-crosby/
Twitter reacts to Lions selecting OL Tyrell Crosby in fifth round (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/twitter-reacts-to-lions-selecting-ol-tyrell-crosby-in-fifth-round/
Lions draft OT Tyrell Crosby in 5th round (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-2018-nfl-draft-ot-tyrell-crosby-5th-round/
Some believe Lions landed one of the steals of the NFL draft in fifth round (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/bbb696f83e2084/some_believe_lions_landed_one.html
Lions fifth-rounder Tyrell Crosby ducks questions about concussion history (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/lions_fifth-round_pick_tyrell.html
2018 NFL Draft: Lions draft Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby in fifth round (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_draft_ore.html
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
Lions end OT Crosby's frustration in 5th round (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-ot-tyrell-crosby/561681002/
Lions draft Tyrell Crosby: 'Bad-bodied assassin' (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-oregon-tyrell-crosby-bad-bodied-assassin/561515002/
Lions take Oregon OT Crosby in fifth round (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-tyrell-crosby-2018-nfl-draft/561202002/
New Lions OT Tyrell Crosby: No concussion worries (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/lions-boost-ol-again-oregons-tyrell-crosby-fifth-round/34353267/
Meet Lions’ Day 3 NFL Draft picks (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/meet-lions-day-3-nfl-draft-picks/34350821/
A CLOSER LOOK: Tackle Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Tackle-Tyrell-Crosby/839e5978-0337-405f-aa9c-723a580e84bc
Lions draft tackle Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Lions-draft-tackle-Tyrell-Crosby/a6ce0bd6-b43d-46af-88ac-6cfe0d1b62e7
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon: Some analysts had Crosby as a second-round pick. He’s a big-bodied prospect with a good anchor and a mean streak in the run game. Some team will covet his size, strength and length in Day 3. The Lions could be on the lookout for a young swing tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
Videos:
Daniel Jeremiah's player comparison for Tyrell Crosby : Michael Oher: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap3000000929936/Daniel-Jeremiah-s-player-comparison-for-Tyrell-Crosby-Michael-Oher
Analyzing Detroit's moves on the final day of the NFL draft (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/analyzing_detroits_moves_on_th.html
Tyrell Crosby's introductory conference call after being selected by the Lions in the fifth round of the 2018 draft: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Tyrell-Crosby/db54a18d-1875-4438-9e0c-ffd9c425ce26
Tyrell Crosby highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tyrell-Crosby-highlights/1382b9ed-799d-431b-bc0c-f448bbde887a
Tyrell Crosby's full Combine workout: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tyrell-Crosbys-full-Combine-workout/9b1423df-fe26-4890-9e9d-b14d6edeb513
Greg Gabriel: 7 NFL draft Day 3 steals (Tyrell Crosby – OT – Oregon – Detroit – Fifth Round: Crosby was an All Pac-12 performer at Oregon and a multi-year starter. He had experience as a starter at both right and left tackle. His tape was excellent, but his Senior Bowl week was a little disappointing. Still, he lasted until the fifth round, where the Detroit Lions selected him. I felt that, at worst, Crosby was a second-round talent. That said, he had a foot injury that caused him to miss most of 2016. The after effects of that injury might be the reason he lasted so late in the draft.) (5-1-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/05/01/48977298/index.xml?page=1
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Tyrell Crosby: “Showed the core and lower body strength to generate power through his hips as a drive and angle blocker. Ran his feet on contact showing the needed sustaining and finishing movement. Played low with excellent leverage and balance-body control as a run blocker. Utilized at times as an inside puller in the gap scheme run game. Efficient with compact movement working to the second level in the run game. “Much more of a power-strength pass protector than an athletic-movement pass protector. Very strong hands to control pass rushers when he engaged early in the down. Lacks top level quickness and lateral movement as a pass protector but very efficient staying square and using his hands rarely giving up the edge. “Played with physicality and competitive toughness showing a nasty edge at times. Overall an outstanding run blocker with the strength to move the defensive line. “Very desirable combination of size and power. His size and build are likely better suited to play inside at guard at the next level. His competitiveness and physical approach combined with his drive and angle blocking ability also project better inside. “There will be teams depending on run game concepts and pass game design that will project Crosby at tackle and my sense is he could be effective outside given his size-length and power, but I believe he has the physical and competitive traits to be an All-Pro OG in the NFL.”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
2018 NFL draft recap: The best and riskiest Lions picks, and what's left to do (Biggest sleeper: The Lions didn't head into Day 3 expecting to draft another offensive lineman. But they didn't expect Tyrell Crosby to last more than five picks that day either. He didn't allow a sack last year. He was named the best offensive lineman in the Pac-12. And Quinn was shocked to see him still there when Detroit was back on the clock in the fifth round. It seems Crosby's concussion history contributed to his fall, but if he's healthy -- and he insists he is -- the Lions got a lot of value here. Remember how the offense fell apart because of the injuries up front last year? In Crosby, they add a reliable pass protector with experience at both left and right tackle, and some believe could play inside as well. You just don't usually see this kind of resume in a fifth-round pick, and as long as he isn't plagued by more concussion problems, this could prove to be the underrated move of the draft.) (4-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_recap_the_best.html
Top 10 steals of the 2018 NFL draft (Tyrell Crosby: There weren’t many prospects in this draft who are ready to be a starting left tackle almost immediately in the NFL, but Crosby was one of them. That made it a huge shock when he lasted until midway through Day 3, where the Lions wisely snatched him up. He was announced as a guard, which means the Lions will likely try him there first (it’s a bigger need for them at the moment), but Crosby’s versatility only adds to his value, which should have had him off the board much earlier.) (4-29-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/29/nfl-draft-top-10-steals/7/
NFL Draft: A Round 5 to Remember (The Lions halted Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby's fall at pick No. 153. It's unclear why a first-round talent plummeted but it's easy to see how he fits in Detroit's drafting of power players to help a one-dimensional offense develop an edge. Crosby was a second-rounder in Gabriel's estimation and could fight for early playing time inside or be the eventual heir to T.J. Lang.) (4-28-17): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-a-round-5-to-remember/a65dut9/
2018 NFL draft: Biggest steals and reaches from Day 3 (Steal - Crosby: No matter if you play him inside or on the edge, Crosby has the potential to be a high-end starter at multiple positions on the offensive line. Crosby was considered by many analysts to be a top-100 selection and come into a locker room to compete for starting reps. Instead, Crosby fell to the middle of Day 3 and landed in an excellent position for the long-term future of the Detroit Lions. Long arms with great lower body strength, Crosby will begin his career as a swing tackle with the opportunity to compete for a starting role sooner rather than later.) (4-28-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/2018-nfl-draft-biggest-steals-and-reaches-from-day-3/2/
Roster impact of the Lions drafting OL Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-ol-tyrell-crosby/
Twitter reacts to Lions selecting OL Tyrell Crosby in fifth round (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/twitter-reacts-to-lions-selecting-ol-tyrell-crosby-in-fifth-round/
Lions draft OT Tyrell Crosby in 5th round (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-2018-nfl-draft-ot-tyrell-crosby-5th-round/
Some believe Lions landed one of the steals of the NFL draft in fifth round (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/bbb696f83e2084/some_believe_lions_landed_one.html
Lions fifth-rounder Tyrell Crosby ducks questions about concussion history (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/lions_fifth-round_pick_tyrell.html
2018 NFL Draft: Lions draft Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby in fifth round (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_draft_ore.html
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
Lions end OT Crosby's frustration in 5th round (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-ot-tyrell-crosby/561681002/
Lions draft Tyrell Crosby: 'Bad-bodied assassin' (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-oregon-tyrell-crosby-bad-bodied-assassin/561515002/
Meet Lions’ Day 3 NFL Draft picks (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/meet-lions-day-3-nfl-draft-picks/34350821/
A CLOSER LOOK: Tackle Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Tackle-Tyrell-Crosby/839e5978-0337-405f-aa9c-723a580e84bc
Lions draft tackle Tyrell Crosby (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Lions-draft-tackle-Tyrell-Crosby/a6ce0bd6-b43d-46af-88ac-6cfe0d1b62e7
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon: Some analysts had Crosby as a second-round pick. He’s a big-bodied prospect with a good anchor and a mean streak in the run game. Some team will covet his size, strength and length in Day 3. The Lions could be on the lookout for a young swing tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
Videos:
Daniel Jeremiah's player comparison for Tyrell Crosby : Michael Oher: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap3000000929936/Daniel-Jeremiah-s-player-comparison-for-Tyrell-Crosby-Michael-Oher
Analyzing Detroit's moves on the final day of the NFL draft (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/analyzing_detroits_moves_on_th.html
Tyrell Crosby's introductory conference call after being selected by the Lions in the fifth round of the 2018 draft: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Tyrell-Crosby/db54a18d-1875-4438-9e0c-ffd9c425ce26
Tyrell Crosby highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tyrell-Crosby-highlights/1382b9ed-799d-431b-bc0c-f448bbde887a
Tyrell Crosby's full Combine workout: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tyrell-Crosbys-full-Combine-workout/9b1423df-fe26-4890-9e9d-b14d6edeb513
Da'Shawn Hand Links from after the Draft
Articles:
How the Lions' Da'Shawn Hand project was two years in the making (5-1-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/05/dashawn_hand.html
Biggest post-draft questions for all 32 teams (Detroit Lions - How are the Lions going to rush opposing quarterbacks? The Lions took the approach of fixing their run game this draft, with three of their first five picks focused on the offensive line or running back. Meanwhile, Detroit didn't address the defensive line until the fourth round with former No. 1 high school prospect Da'Shawn Hand from Alabama. Hand could be a nice piece, but his college production doesn't indicate he'll be the difference-making type of player Detroit needs to pressure quarterbacks. This puts more pressure on Ezekiel Ansah to stay healthy and Kerry Hyder to return to his pre-Achilles-injury form. -- Michael Rothstein) (4-29-18): http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/page/32for32/post-2018-nfl-draft-biggest-questions-all-32-teams
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Da'Shawn Hand: “Looks the part with his length, long arms and solid muscular build of a multi-dimensional defensive lineman, who can be effective in both 4-3 and 3-4 front alignments. Showed the hand strength to control and displace offensive linemen and make tackles in the run game. “Did not consistently play to his athleticism and at times did not look like he was playing with the demanded urgency. “Hand's tape showed a higher-level athlete with the kind of movement you don't normally see from a 297-pound defensive lineman – he ran a 4.85 40-yard dash at the Combine at 297 pounds. Hand has the traits to develop into a strong pass rusher both from the defensive end position and inside at defensive tackle, but he needs much coaching and experience to get there. "At this point Hand is the classic traits prospect, but he didn't play as many snaps or have the kind of production that those traits should have led to. There's much to work with, but coaching will be critical as will be Hand's approach as a professional.”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
2018 NFL draft: Lions add Alabama DE Da'Shawn Hand via another trade with Patriots (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/nfl_draft_2018_lions_trade_wit.html
Lions like versatility of DE Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft/561292002/
Lions draft Da'Shawn Hand: Five things to know (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-draft-alabama-dashawn-hand-five-things/561305002/
Alabama’s Da'Shawn Hand says he’ll bring ‘win’ attitude to Lions (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/lions-grab-alabamas-dashawn-hand-after-trading-into-fourth-round/34349867/
Meet Lions’ Day 3 NFL Draft picks (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/meet-lions-day-3-nfl-draft-picks/34350821/
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive end Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Defensive-end-DaShawn-Hand/a4dd927d-bc75-4ac5-b08e-8a984ddedf42
Lions trade up, draft defensive end Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Lions-trade-up-draft-defensive-end-DaShawn-Hand/2d46e65c-4865-43d0-bb2a-3176b6ccae18
Roster impact of the Lions drafting DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-dl-dashawn-hand/
Experts react to Lions trading up for Alabama DE Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/experts-react-to-lions-trading-up-for-alabama-de-dashawn-hand/
Instant analysis of the Lions drafting DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-drafting-dl-dashawn-hand/
Lions trade up with Patriots, draft DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/lions-trade-up-with-patriots-take-dashawn-hand/
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Da’Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama: Hand started nine of the 11 games he played in 2017, missing time with a minor knee injury. He’s a versatile defender who can bump inside on passing downs. He had 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks this past season.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
Videos:
Conference call: Da'Shawn Hand: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-DaShawn-Hand/9efd31bc-5de2-40f8-924f-857e26a15d12
Da'Shawn Hand's full Combine workout: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/DaShawn-Hands-full-Combine-workout/bccca527-7c7a-4964-aca0-ab79c48bd29a
Breaking down Da'Shawn Hand's college highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Breaking-down-DaShawn-Hands-college-highlights/ceb34660-613f-49a5-beb6-42be39194af0
Analyzing Detroit's moves on the final day of the NFL draft (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/analyzing_detroits_moves_on_th.html
How the Lions' Da'Shawn Hand project was two years in the making (5-1-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/05/dashawn_hand.html
Biggest post-draft questions for all 32 teams (Detroit Lions - How are the Lions going to rush opposing quarterbacks? The Lions took the approach of fixing their run game this draft, with three of their first five picks focused on the offensive line or running back. Meanwhile, Detroit didn't address the defensive line until the fourth round with former No. 1 high school prospect Da'Shawn Hand from Alabama. Hand could be a nice piece, but his college production doesn't indicate he'll be the difference-making type of player Detroit needs to pressure quarterbacks. This puts more pressure on Ezekiel Ansah to stay healthy and Kerry Hyder to return to his pre-Achilles-injury form. -- Michael Rothstein) (4-29-18): http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/page/32for32/post-2018-nfl-draft-biggest-questions-all-32-teams
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Da'Shawn Hand: “Looks the part with his length, long arms and solid muscular build of a multi-dimensional defensive lineman, who can be effective in both 4-3 and 3-4 front alignments. Showed the hand strength to control and displace offensive linemen and make tackles in the run game. “Did not consistently play to his athleticism and at times did not look like he was playing with the demanded urgency. “Hand's tape showed a higher-level athlete with the kind of movement you don't normally see from a 297-pound defensive lineman – he ran a 4.85 40-yard dash at the Combine at 297 pounds. Hand has the traits to develop into a strong pass rusher both from the defensive end position and inside at defensive tackle, but he needs much coaching and experience to get there. "At this point Hand is the classic traits prospect, but he didn't play as many snaps or have the kind of production that those traits should have led to. There's much to work with, but coaching will be critical as will be Hand's approach as a professional.”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
2018 NFL draft: Lions add Alabama DE Da'Shawn Hand via another trade with Patriots (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/nfl_draft_2018_lions_trade_wit.html
Lions like versatility of DE Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft/561292002/
Lions draft Da'Shawn Hand: Five things to know (4-28-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-draft-alabama-dashawn-hand-five-things/561305002/
Meet Lions’ Day 3 NFL Draft picks (4-28-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/meet-lions-day-3-nfl-draft-picks/34350821/
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive end Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/A-CLOSER-LOOK-Defensive-end-DaShawn-Hand/a4dd927d-bc75-4ac5-b08e-8a984ddedf42
Lions trade up, draft defensive end Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Lions-trade-up-draft-defensive-end-DaShawn-Hand/2d46e65c-4865-43d0-bb2a-3176b6ccae18
Roster impact of the Lions drafting DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/roster-impact-of-the-lions-drafting-dl-dashawn-hand/
Experts react to Lions trading up for Alabama DE Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/experts-react-to-lions-trading-up-for-alabama-de-dashawn-hand/
Instant analysis of the Lions drafting DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-drafting-dl-dashawn-hand/
Lions trade up with Patriots, draft DL Da'Shawn Hand (4-28-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/lions-trade-up-with-patriots-take-dashawn-hand/
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Da’Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama: Hand started nine of the 11 games he played in 2017, missing time with a minor knee injury. He’s a versatile defender who can bump inside on passing downs. He had 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks this past season.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
Videos:
Conference call: Da'Shawn Hand: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-DaShawn-Hand/9efd31bc-5de2-40f8-924f-857e26a15d12
Da'Shawn Hand's full Combine workout: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/DaShawn-Hands-full-Combine-workout/bccca527-7c7a-4964-aca0-ab79c48bd29a
Breaking down Da'Shawn Hand's college highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Breaking-down-DaShawn-Hands-college-highlights/ceb34660-613f-49a5-beb6-42be39194af0
Analyzing Detroit's moves on the final day of the NFL draft (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/analyzing_detroits_moves_on_th.html
Tracy Walker Links from after the Draft
Articles:
Think you were surprised by the Tracy Walker pick? Imagine being Tracy Walker (5-1-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/05/even_tracy_walker_was_surprise.html
NFC NORTH: 2018 NFL Draft breakdown (Good under-the-radar pick: A lot of Lions fans might not have known who Tracy Walker was before Friday night, but they could realize what he can bring to the table sooner rather than later. Walker gives a defense a lot of position versatility with his ability to line up in different spots in sub-packages. He could see some early work in the slot or covering tight ends.) (5-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft/article-1/NFC-NORTH-2018-NFL-Draft-breakdown/d3436e05-5b34-4eae-a197-268f94ac51b4
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Tracy Walker: “He’s sort of a Matt Patricia kind of player in his ability to line up in different spots. That is so important for how (Bill) Belichick and obviously Patricia see the game defensively. I think that’s one reason he was such an attractive player for the Lions. "Walker looks the part of an NFL safety with a long sinewy build and long arms – Combine testing numbers in the athletic explosion categories were excellent. He played downhill with aggression in the run game and showed the balance and body control to square up and make tackles. Good feel for run fits both as a box safety and as a downhill alley defender. Overall there was a physical presence to his game. “Significant snaps over the slot and his matchup versus Texas A&M's Christian Kirk presents possibilities for Walker as a slot corner in sub-packages. Played some snaps at outside corner versus Ole Miss. “What consistently stood out was there was a physical toughness and competitiveness to Walker's game and he played with high energy and activity on every snap. Walker gives a defense a lot of position versatility with his ability to line up in different spots in sub-packages and be effective: 2 shell, single high, 1 robber, slot corner in both man and zone, dime LB (sack versus South Alabama), snaps at outside corner versus Ole Miss. “When I saw that pick I thought, ‘Wow, that’s a really interesting pick for the Lions given that Patricia’s there.’”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
2018 NFL draft recap: The best and riskiest Lions picks, and what's left to do (Biggest surprise: Anybody ever heard of Tracy Walker before Friday night? Anybody? Anybody? Bueller? Listen, it's common for teams to take players that are unknowns. But it usually happens on Day 3, where Walker was universally expected to go. I can't remember it ever happening in the third round in my five-plus years covering the Lions. Until Friday, anyway, when Detroit used the 82nd overall pick on the little-known safety out of Louisiana-Lafayette. A quick scan of notable mock drafts and projections shows nobody -- quite literally, nobody -- expected Walker to go earlier than the fifth round. Yet the Lions took him a full two rounds earlier, and did so before addressing the front seven everyone anticipated to be a priority. With a long wait before Detroit was due back on the clock in the fifth, this was just exceptionally surprising. But you could tell from the exuberant celebration that broke out in the Lions' war room -- there were literal fist pumps and high-fives going around after they got Walker -- that they think they got a major steal here. "We were excited about the pick because there were a few teams in front of us that we were a little nervous about," Quinn said. "Not to name any names, but we do all our research of what teams, who visited with what teams, and there were two teams I think the 10 or 12 picks above us that had visited with him on a 30-visit.") (4-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_recap_the_best.html
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
Why Tracy Walker will be worth the 82nd pick (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/why-tracy-walker-will-be-worth-the-82nd-pick/
'Who's Tracy Walker?' OnePride Twitter responds to Lions' 3rd-round pick (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/who-is-tracy-walker-onepride-twitter-responds-to-lions-3rd-round-pick/
Lions take DB Tracy Walker in 3rd round of 2018 NFL Draft (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-take-db-tracy-walker-in-3rd-round-of-2018-nfl-draft/
Who? Lions' pick of Tracy Walker has everyone heading to Google (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/957c86178c4085/no_defensive_lineman_some_lion.html
2018 NFL Draft: Lions take Louisiana-Lafayette DB Tracy Walker in third round (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_take_loui.html
Lions DB Walker thought he would go Round 5 (4-27-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-tracy-walker-darius-slay/560892002/
Meet Lions' Day 2 picks Kerryon Johnson and Tracy Walker (4-27-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/meet-lions-day-2-picks-kerryon-johnson-and-tracy-walker/34332577/
LIONS Lions add Louisiana-Lafayette safety Tracy Walker in third round (4-27-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/lions-take-louisiana-safety-tracy-walker-third-round/34336789/
Pat Caputo - Bob Quinn, Lions seem to think a lot more of 3rd round pick than anybody else (4-27-18): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20180427/pat-caputo-bob-quinn-lions-seem-to-think-a-lot-more-of-3rd-round-pick-than-anybody-else
Videos:
DRAFT REVIEW WITH CHRIS SPIELMAN: DAY 2: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Draft-review-with-Chris-Spielman-Day-2/091841d3-0ad4-40bd-8715-155670af925b
Tori Petry, Tim Twentyman and Mike O'Hara recap the Lions' second day in the 2018 NFL Draft.: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tori-Mike-and-Tim-Reacting-to-draft-day-2/13c76b18-c63b-4f1b-9bc0-2f64a9
Tracy Walker Highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tracy-Walker-Highlights/a57d6b76-f9c5-4cb2-8baa-f1938ed0859f
Bob Quinn NFL Draft Day 2 press conference: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Bob-Quinn-NFL-Draft-Day-2-press-conference/f79d72ec-64c2-4b99-9d4b-9c6f73d5067d
CONFERENCE CALL: TRACY WALKER: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Tracy-Walker/9f18dcf9-522e-42a1-a5a7-80f636d99e43
Breaking down the Lions' moves on Day 2 of the NFL draft (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/breaking_down_the_lions_moves.html
Think you were surprised by the Tracy Walker pick? Imagine being Tracy Walker (5-1-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/05/even_tracy_walker_was_surprise.html
NFC NORTH: 2018 NFL Draft breakdown (Good under-the-radar pick: A lot of Lions fans might not have known who Tracy Walker was before Friday night, but they could realize what he can bring to the table sooner rather than later. Walker gives a defense a lot of position versatility with his ability to line up in different spots in sub-packages. He could see some early work in the slot or covering tight ends.) (5-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft/article-1/NFC-NORTH-2018-NFL-Draft-breakdown/d3436e05-5b34-4eae-a197-268f94ac51b4
Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' 2018 draft picks (Tracy Walker: “He’s sort of a Matt Patricia kind of player in his ability to line up in different spots. That is so important for how (Bill) Belichick and obviously Patricia see the game defensively. I think that’s one reason he was such an attractive player for the Lions. "Walker looks the part of an NFL safety with a long sinewy build and long arms – Combine testing numbers in the athletic explosion categories were excellent. He played downhill with aggression in the run game and showed the balance and body control to square up and make tackles. Good feel for run fits both as a box safety and as a downhill alley defender. Overall there was a physical presence to his game. “Significant snaps over the slot and his matchup versus Texas A&M's Christian Kirk presents possibilities for Walker as a slot corner in sub-packages. Played some snaps at outside corner versus Ole Miss. “What consistently stood out was there was a physical toughness and competitiveness to Walker's game and he played with high energy and activity on every snap. Walker gives a defense a lot of position versatility with his ability to line up in different spots in sub-packages and be effective: 2 shell, single high, 1 robber, slot corner in both man and zone, dime LB (sack versus South Alabama), snaps at outside corner versus Ole Miss. “When I saw that pick I thought, ‘Wow, that’s a really interesting pick for the Lions given that Patricia’s there.’”) (4-30-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-2018-draft-picks/8bb4d4f2-e55a-4879-8b3f-1a7bc7b5a1e3
2018 NFL draft recap: The best and riskiest Lions picks, and what's left to do (Biggest surprise: Anybody ever heard of Tracy Walker before Friday night? Anybody? Anybody? Bueller? Listen, it's common for teams to take players that are unknowns. But it usually happens on Day 3, where Walker was universally expected to go. I can't remember it ever happening in the third round in my five-plus years covering the Lions. Until Friday, anyway, when Detroit used the 82nd overall pick on the little-known safety out of Louisiana-Lafayette. A quick scan of notable mock drafts and projections shows nobody -- quite literally, nobody -- expected Walker to go earlier than the fifth round. Yet the Lions took him a full two rounds earlier, and did so before addressing the front seven everyone anticipated to be a priority. With a long wait before Detroit was due back on the clock in the fifth, this was just exceptionally surprising. But you could tell from the exuberant celebration that broke out in the Lions' war room -- there were literal fist pumps and high-fives going around after they got Walker -- that they think they got a major steal here. "We were excited about the pick because there were a few teams in front of us that we were a little nervous about," Quinn said. "Not to name any names, but we do all our research of what teams, who visited with what teams, and there were two teams I think the 10 or 12 picks above us that had visited with him on a 30-visit.") (4-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_recap_the_best.html
Here is the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft class (4-28-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/b83ff334dc745/here_is_the_detroit_lions_2018.html
Why Tracy Walker will be worth the 82nd pick (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/why-tracy-walker-will-be-worth-the-82nd-pick/
'Who's Tracy Walker?' OnePride Twitter responds to Lions' 3rd-round pick (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/who-is-tracy-walker-onepride-twitter-responds-to-lions-3rd-round-pick/
Lions take DB Tracy Walker in 3rd round of 2018 NFL Draft (4-27-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/27/detroit-lions-take-db-tracy-walker-in-3rd-round-of-2018-nfl-draft/
Who? Lions' pick of Tracy Walker has everyone heading to Google (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/04/957c86178c4085/no_defensive_lineman_some_lion.html
2018 NFL Draft: Lions take Louisiana-Lafayette DB Tracy Walker in third round (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_lions_take_loui.html
Lions DB Walker thought he would go Round 5 (4-27-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-tracy-walker-darius-slay/560892002/
LIONS Lions add Louisiana-Lafayette safety Tracy Walker in third round (4-27-18): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/27/lions-take-louisiana-safety-tracy-walker-third-round/34336789/
Pat Caputo - Bob Quinn, Lions seem to think a lot more of 3rd round pick than anybody else (4-27-18): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20180427/pat-caputo-bob-quinn-lions-seem-to-think-a-lot-more-of-3rd-round-pick-than-anybody-else
Videos:
DRAFT REVIEW WITH CHRIS SPIELMAN: DAY 2: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Draft-review-with-Chris-Spielman-Day-2/091841d3-0ad4-40bd-8715-155670af925b
Tori Petry, Tim Twentyman and Mike O'Hara recap the Lions' second day in the 2018 NFL Draft.: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tori-Mike-and-Tim-Reacting-to-draft-day-2/13c76b18-c63b-4f1b-9bc0-2f64a9
Tracy Walker Highlights: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tracy-Walker-Highlights/a57d6b76-f9c5-4cb2-8baa-f1938ed0859f
Bob Quinn NFL Draft Day 2 press conference: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Bob-Quinn-NFL-Draft-Day-2-press-conference/f79d72ec-64c2-4b99-9d4b-9c6f73d5067d
CONFERENCE CALL: TRACY WALKER: http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Conference-call-Tracy-Walker/9f18dcf9-522e-42a1-a5a7-80f636d99e43
Breaking down the Lions' moves on Day 2 of the NFL draft (4-27-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/04/breaking_down_the_lions_moves.html
Saturday, April 28, 2018
Overall Grades and Anslysis
Grades:
NFL (B+: Hey, did anybody know the Lions haven't had a 100-yard rusher since Thanksgiving day 2013?? [Ducks four-ton haymaker from Detroit's Joe Louis fist] Yeah, every single Lions supporter is sick and tired of this go-to statistical burn. Not because it's irrelevant -- Detroit's ground game has ranked 32nd, 30th and 32nd over the past three seasons -- but because it's the exact kind of humiliating, interminable ineptitude that routinely causes proud Detroiters to shake their heads and utter those three tortured words: Same old Lions. Well, Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia say enough is enough! Detroit devoted four of its six picks to solving this problem once and for all, starting with Ragnow, Pro Football Focus' top-rated college center in each of the past two years. He immediately slots into the starting lineup at either center or guard, depending on where the Lions want to put Graham Glasgow. (The guess here is that Ragnow mans the pivot.) In Round 2, the Lions added Johnson, a powerful, jump-cutting back with a Le'Veon Bell-like patience that rewards good blocking. On Day 3, Detroit scooped up two more punishing run blockers, including a fullback. (Yes, a fullback! That 100-yard drought is squarely in the crosshairs.) So, what about replenishments for the 27th-ranked defense? Well, you can only fill so many needs in one draft. But yes, the limited haul there is what keeps Detroit out of "A" territory. Will Walker or Hand make a significant impact? Both offer intriguing size and tools. Oh, and one huge bonus for those Lions fans who back the Wolverines on Saturdays: Finally got your guy!): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000931229/article/nfc-north-draft-grades-bears-advance-slick-offseason-makeover
Rotoworld Thor's Grades (B+: In one sentence: Like what they did with their first two picks, and also the outstanding value on Hand and Crosby on Day 3.): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79566/271/
SI (Detroit Lions: Detroit’s ground game has ranked 26th or worst in yards per attempt each of the last four years—including ranking dead last in 2017—and GM Bob Quinn was determined to change that. Frank Ragnow, who boasts strength and aggression admired by many scouts, will start on Day 1, filling the hole created by Travis Swanson’s departure. Picking Ragnow and Kerryon Johnson reaffirms what e could surmise by the free-agent signing of LeGarrette Blount: the Lions want a bruising ground game. On the downside, the Lions didn’t find a pass-catching tight end to replace Eric Ebron—they simply didn’t have enough picks to address that need. The job now falls to ex-Seahawk Luke Willson, who is at least proficient going down the seams. The rest of this draft served to start remaking Detroit’s defense in new head coach Matt Patricia’s image. Tracy Walker brings depth at safety, which is something Matt Patricia used smartly in New England. Da’Shawn Hand, whom the Lions traded up to get in Round 4, is a five-technique style defensive end, meaning he wins with strength and mechanics. Patricia’s Patriots always employed this type of D-lineman as opposed to the glitzier (and more expensive) edge-benders. Grade: B): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-2018-team-grades-picks-analysis
CBS (Detroit Lions: B, The Lions need to run the ball better, and their first two picks show they know that all too well. They took interior lineman Frank Ragnow in the first round, and he will be a big part of that improvement up front. I love second-round running back Kerryon Johnson from Auburn. He will be their lead runner. Third-round safety Tracy Walker has good range, and fifth-round offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby could be a steal.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-grades-for-all-32-teams-bears-bucs-ravens-panthers-get-top-marks/
NFL (Day 1 grade: A, Day 2 grade: C, Day 3 grade: B, Overall grade: B; The skinny: Detroit got stronger in the middle by picking Ragnow, who could play guard for now, or move to center if needed. Either way, he'll move the line of scrimmage. Matthew Stafford feels better already. The Lions were so interested in Johnson that they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots. That's marginal value, though I expect Johnson will be a good back. Walker was picked two rounds earlier than expected, but he has the skills to become a starter in the league. Hand could end up a pretty good interior player, but he'll need to contribute right away to be worth giving up a 2019 third-rounder. Great value in Crosby, who should be a starter at guard or tackle very soon because of his strength. He has quick enough feet to handle pass protection duties.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000930225/article/2018-nfl-draft-final-quicksnap-grades-for-all-32-teams
Mel Kiper grades Lions 2018 NFL Draft class a B-: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Bolt/Mel-Kiper-grades-Lions-2018-NFL-Draft-class-a-B--117820206
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft Scout Rob Rang (The NFC North was long considered the NFL's so-called black and blue division, with physicality and toughness as primary characteristics. The Lions appear dedicated to regaining that image, adding a plug-and-play, lunch-stealing interior lineman in Arkansas' Frank Ragnow in the first round and the top blocker in the PAC-12 last year in tackle Tyrell Crosby (who fell due to medical red flags) in the fifth. Running back Kerryon Johnson is a classic slasher who runs hungry, also adding a physical element to a rushing attack that has been desperately in search of a bell-cow for years. He will be aided by the draft's best lead blocker in Nick Bawden, the club's seventh-round pick. Safety Tracy Walker and powerful defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand, both middle-round picks, look the part of NFL players but never proved to be the dominant prospects at their respective levels that their imposing frames suggest. Grade: C-plus): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rang-grading-the-nfc-ns8alu5hMEGh5f85MnoGkg/?full=1
USA Today (C+: Second rounder Kerryon Johnson will get the headlines, assuming he can break with recent tradition and hold up better than other highly drafted Lions tailbacks. Otherwise, new coach Matt Patricia and GM Bob Quinn were busy fortifying their lines, starting with first-round C Frank Ragnow.): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-grades-teams-2018-giants-patriots-cowboys-jets/562265002/
PFW (Detroit Lions — C+/C: We believe 20 and 43 is just too high for Frank Ragnow and Kerryon Johnson, and had both James Daniels (39) and Billy Price (21) ranked ahead of Ragnow. But we love Tyrell Crosby, think he may actually be the best left tackle in this draft and can’t believe he was still there at 153. Da’Shawn Hand was a classic and chronic underachiever at Bama, but that’s in large part because he has Pro Bowl-level talent and natural gifts. He’s a great gamble at 114; now can the Lions get it out of him?): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/30/06254883/index.xml?page=7
Draftwire (DETROIT LIONS | C: Frank Ragnow in the first may seem like a reach to some, but it really wasn’t. He would have gone quickly, maybe with the very next pick to the Bengals. Kerryon Johnson is solid, but there were better options at running back at that slot. Da’Shawn Hand is a solid player who fits this scheme, but trading a third-rounder in next year’s draft to get him was too steep. Tracy Walker is promising, but was taken a round or two early. Tyrell Crosby is my favorite pick in this group, with his versatility and upside. Where’s the edge rusher, or the off-ball linebacker? Still plenty of work to be done with this roster.): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-grades-2018-instant-analysis-every-team/2/
Walterfootball (C: Goals Entering the 2018 NFL Draft: Despite the hiring of former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as head coach, the Lions absolutely have to bolster their defense. Help is needed at every level, especially on the defensive line, where there are multiple holes that must be plugged. 2018 NFL Draft Accomplishments: While their mentor spent lots of energy trading down in this class, Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn moved up on a couple of occasions. They did so in the second round, getting running back Kerryon Johnson at No. 43. They then gave New England a 2019 third-round pick to get Da'Shawn Hand in the fourth frame. Hand should help the defensive front, but using multiple resources to get him, including a second-day choice in next year's superior class, seems like a mistake. Speaking of errors, the Lions made a horrendous pick in the third round, reaching greatly for safety Tracy Walker, who may have been available in the fifth frame. This selection alone will weigh down Detroit's overall grade. There were plenty of safeties available - teams don't value that position very highly right now, which is why they all fell - so there was no reason to make a desperation grab for a mid-round prospect. The Lions did some nice things in this draft - they bolstered their offensive line with center Frank Ragnow, and they found a great bargain in tackle Tyrell Crosby in the fifth round - but their unnecessary trades and reaches, as well as their reluctance to address the defensive front beyond Hand, will ensure that they won't have a positive overall grade.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgradesteam.php
SN (C-: Bob Quinn vowed to fixed the running game, and Ragnow's interior blocking will help. Trading up for Johnson, however, was questionable for the backfield, and Walker was a reach for the secondary. The Lions ignoring linebacker and tight end was not good.)http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2018-grades-winners-losers-best-worst-broncos-bills-seahawks/1wkh3jasql60m16rspf25mvqqd
Rotoworld Silva (Overview: GM Bob Quinn’s continued pass-rush avoidance is confusing. Ragnow addressed a need, but trading up for an ordinary running back in Johnson unnecessarily cost Detroit a top-120 pick. An upright runner who didn’t dominate in college, Johnson reminds of a less-explosive version of Darren McFadden stylistically. It was surprising to see Walker go in the third round after he managed third-team all-conference honors in the Sun Belt last year. Walker himself admitted after the draft he expected to go multiple rounds later. Moving up for college underachiever Hand cost Detroit its 2019 third-round pick in a trade with the Pats. Crosby is an intriguing project to develop at right tackle or guard. Bawden was the best blocking fullback in the nation the last two years. It doesn’t help that the Lions coughed up their sixth-round pick in last year’s trade for Greg Robinson, who is no longer on the team. Grade: D): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/nfl/79568/174/2018-nfc-draft-grades
Shutdown Corner (Analysis: Center Frank Ragnow is a good player, but it still feels the Lions needed to get premium pass rush help early on. Running back Kerryon Johnson didn’t seem like a good value with the 11th pick of the second round, and they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots to take him. You have to wonder if the Derrius Guice rumors scared them off the better player there. Safety Tracy Walker seemed like an even bigger reach in the third round. Alabama defensive lineman Da’shawn Hand and Oregon offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby were fine value picks, though Crosby’s reported concussion issues are an obvious concern. It’s an underwhelming class. Grade: D): https://sports.yahoo.com/final-2018-nfl-draft-grades-team-fare-dont-look-seattle-fans-184907310.html
Analysis:
Draft Analyst (Detroit Lions: Though they drafted no superstars, the Lions came away with a lot of talent that will produce at the next level. Frank Ragnow was steadily moving up draft boards and should quickly break into the starting lineup. Tyrell Crosby could be a bargain if his takes his game to the next level.Da'Shawn Hand will be a steal for the Lions.): http://draftanalyst.com/18-nfl-draft-overview-nfc
Schefter: Lions have robbed other NFL teams with every pick so far: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/schefter-lions-have-robbed-other-nfl-teams-with-every-pick-so-far/
Arthur Arkush's 5 least favorite NFL draft classes (Bob Quinn cares not for style but substance, and doubling up at OL and RB sends a clear message that this offense is eschewing finesse for a more power-based approach. Tyrell Crosby might turn out to be one of the draft's bigger steals, but they had to trade up Johnson, albeit an underrated back who'll carry the mail often with an edge, and Hand is a talented wildcard. Pass rush remains a big concern, and where does the lesser-known Walker fit in an already talented secondary? Quinn has invested a lot in the offensive line without the desired returns; even as a fast riser, Ragnow is a bit rich there for my liking.): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/28/4089964b72714df2900eea83c429045b/index.xml?page=1
PFF (Day 1: The Lions selected one of the players that PFF has been championing as a potential dominant force throughout the pre-draft process in Arkansas C Frank Ragnow. With a new coaching staff in the building, the Lions are making a concerted effort to get better at the line of scrimmage, and become a more powerful team, and Ragnow achieves that. He was a dominant run-blocker and did not allow a sack in pass protection throughout his entire college career. He was one of a few players that have distanced themselves as the best player we have seen at their respective positions since we have been grading college football, and those players typically translate very well to the next level. Ragnow should plug in to the middle of that offensive line and anchor it immediately, but he has shown the ability to play guard as well, starting at right guard against Alabama in 2017 and still grading very well. Day 2: The Lions shook up the draft board at the running back position by taking Kerryon Johnson out of Auburn over a couple of more celebrated prospects. Johnson only really has one excellent season of performance, with an overall grade of 87.8 in 2017, and he has an interesting style of running the ball, gliding to the hole and accelerating through it like Arian Foster. They also added Tracy Walker from Louisiana to the secondary. Walker is a safety who has covered the slot and has been a better run defender than he has been in coverage. Day 3: Tyrell Crosby’s slide was halted by the Lions who bring in a monstrous offensive lineman. At Oregon, he allowed only seven total pressures and no sacks in 2017 at left tackle, but has the size and power to move inside to guard and dominate. Completing their power-focus, they grabbed one of the few fullbacks in the draft with Nick Bawden in the seventh round. Bawden played the second-most snaps of any fullback in 2017 with 588, none of which were him carrying the ball. Overall grade: Below average): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-all-32-nfl-teams-2018-nfl-draft-grades
2018 NFL Draft, Rules Of Thumb (Thumbs Twiddling - To the Detroit Lions. I love adding two offensive linemen, including landing my No. 2 tackle Tyrell Crosby in the fifth round. Frank Ragnow makes the Lions interior OL one of the best in football if everyone is healthy, and Crosby can play guard or tackle and gives the unit real depth for the first time I can remember. Kerryon Johnson is a great fit at running back, and Tracy Walker could eventually take over for Glover Quin at safety. But the thumbs are twiddling because the No. 1 need on the team is pass rush, and GM Bob Quinn ignored it almost completely. Trading next year’s third rounder for an enigmatic complementary DE in DaShawn Hand is a poor choice, and a fullback for the final pick seems wasteful. Even so, the Lions landed five players in my top 90 overall talents (Hand included) and have devoted major resources to fixing the league’s worst rushing offense.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3047/2018-NFL-Draft-Rules-Of-Thumb
NFC NORTH: 2018 NFL Draft breakdown (Twentyman's take: It’s pretty clear from this draft that Quinn and Patricia value toughness and position versatility. Ragnow, Walker, Hand and even Crosby can play multiple positions. They all have a physical element to their games as well. I'd add Johnson to that list in terms of toughness. The Lions got tougher and more physical via this draft.) (5-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft/article-1/NFC-NORTH-2018-NFL-Draft-breakdown/d3436e05-5b34-4eae-a197-268f94ac51b4
Ranking every team's 2018 NFL draft class - The Broncos nail it while the Patriots stumble (22. Detroit Lions: The Lions reached for both Ragnow and Johnson, but Hand and Crosby were value picks who could make this ranking look foolish in a couple of years. We’ve ranked Detroit 23rd but would not be surprised if this is a top-15 class when all is said and done.): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/04/2018-nfl-draft-grades-rankings-analysis-broncos-giants-raiders-packers-redskins
NFL (B+: Hey, did anybody know the Lions haven't had a 100-yard rusher since Thanksgiving day 2013?? [Ducks four-ton haymaker from Detroit's Joe Louis fist] Yeah, every single Lions supporter is sick and tired of this go-to statistical burn. Not because it's irrelevant -- Detroit's ground game has ranked 32nd, 30th and 32nd over the past three seasons -- but because it's the exact kind of humiliating, interminable ineptitude that routinely causes proud Detroiters to shake their heads and utter those three tortured words: Same old Lions. Well, Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia say enough is enough! Detroit devoted four of its six picks to solving this problem once and for all, starting with Ragnow, Pro Football Focus' top-rated college center in each of the past two years. He immediately slots into the starting lineup at either center or guard, depending on where the Lions want to put Graham Glasgow. (The guess here is that Ragnow mans the pivot.) In Round 2, the Lions added Johnson, a powerful, jump-cutting back with a Le'Veon Bell-like patience that rewards good blocking. On Day 3, Detroit scooped up two more punishing run blockers, including a fullback. (Yes, a fullback! That 100-yard drought is squarely in the crosshairs.) So, what about replenishments for the 27th-ranked defense? Well, you can only fill so many needs in one draft. But yes, the limited haul there is what keeps Detroit out of "A" territory. Will Walker or Hand make a significant impact? Both offer intriguing size and tools. Oh, and one huge bonus for those Lions fans who back the Wolverines on Saturdays: Finally got your guy!): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000931229/article/nfc-north-draft-grades-bears-advance-slick-offseason-makeover
Rotoworld Thor's Grades (B+: In one sentence: Like what they did with their first two picks, and also the outstanding value on Hand and Crosby on Day 3.): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79566/271/
SI (Detroit Lions: Detroit’s ground game has ranked 26th or worst in yards per attempt each of the last four years—including ranking dead last in 2017—and GM Bob Quinn was determined to change that. Frank Ragnow, who boasts strength and aggression admired by many scouts, will start on Day 1, filling the hole created by Travis Swanson’s departure. Picking Ragnow and Kerryon Johnson reaffirms what e could surmise by the free-agent signing of LeGarrette Blount: the Lions want a bruising ground game. On the downside, the Lions didn’t find a pass-catching tight end to replace Eric Ebron—they simply didn’t have enough picks to address that need. The job now falls to ex-Seahawk Luke Willson, who is at least proficient going down the seams. The rest of this draft served to start remaking Detroit’s defense in new head coach Matt Patricia’s image. Tracy Walker brings depth at safety, which is something Matt Patricia used smartly in New England. Da’Shawn Hand, whom the Lions traded up to get in Round 4, is a five-technique style defensive end, meaning he wins with strength and mechanics. Patricia’s Patriots always employed this type of D-lineman as opposed to the glitzier (and more expensive) edge-benders. Grade: B): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-2018-team-grades-picks-analysis
CBS (Detroit Lions: B, The Lions need to run the ball better, and their first two picks show they know that all too well. They took interior lineman Frank Ragnow in the first round, and he will be a big part of that improvement up front. I love second-round running back Kerryon Johnson from Auburn. He will be their lead runner. Third-round safety Tracy Walker has good range, and fifth-round offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby could be a steal.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-grades-for-all-32-teams-bears-bucs-ravens-panthers-get-top-marks/
NFL (Day 1 grade: A, Day 2 grade: C, Day 3 grade: B, Overall grade: B; The skinny: Detroit got stronger in the middle by picking Ragnow, who could play guard for now, or move to center if needed. Either way, he'll move the line of scrimmage. Matthew Stafford feels better already. The Lions were so interested in Johnson that they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots. That's marginal value, though I expect Johnson will be a good back. Walker was picked two rounds earlier than expected, but he has the skills to become a starter in the league. Hand could end up a pretty good interior player, but he'll need to contribute right away to be worth giving up a 2019 third-rounder. Great value in Crosby, who should be a starter at guard or tackle very soon because of his strength. He has quick enough feet to handle pass protection duties.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000930225/article/2018-nfl-draft-final-quicksnap-grades-for-all-32-teams
Mel Kiper grades Lions 2018 NFL Draft class a B-: https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Bolt/Mel-Kiper-grades-Lions-2018-NFL-Draft-class-a-B--117820206
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft Scout Rob Rang (The NFC North was long considered the NFL's so-called black and blue division, with physicality and toughness as primary characteristics. The Lions appear dedicated to regaining that image, adding a plug-and-play, lunch-stealing interior lineman in Arkansas' Frank Ragnow in the first round and the top blocker in the PAC-12 last year in tackle Tyrell Crosby (who fell due to medical red flags) in the fifth. Running back Kerryon Johnson is a classic slasher who runs hungry, also adding a physical element to a rushing attack that has been desperately in search of a bell-cow for years. He will be aided by the draft's best lead blocker in Nick Bawden, the club's seventh-round pick. Safety Tracy Walker and powerful defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand, both middle-round picks, look the part of NFL players but never proved to be the dominant prospects at their respective levels that their imposing frames suggest. Grade: C-plus): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rang-grading-the-nfc-ns8alu5hMEGh5f85MnoGkg/?full=1
USA Today (C+: Second rounder Kerryon Johnson will get the headlines, assuming he can break with recent tradition and hold up better than other highly drafted Lions tailbacks. Otherwise, new coach Matt Patricia and GM Bob Quinn were busy fortifying their lines, starting with first-round C Frank Ragnow.): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-grades-teams-2018-giants-patriots-cowboys-jets/562265002/
PFW (Detroit Lions — C+/C: We believe 20 and 43 is just too high for Frank Ragnow and Kerryon Johnson, and had both James Daniels (39) and Billy Price (21) ranked ahead of Ragnow. But we love Tyrell Crosby, think he may actually be the best left tackle in this draft and can’t believe he was still there at 153. Da’Shawn Hand was a classic and chronic underachiever at Bama, but that’s in large part because he has Pro Bowl-level talent and natural gifts. He’s a great gamble at 114; now can the Lions get it out of him?): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/30/06254883/index.xml?page=7
Draftwire (DETROIT LIONS | C: Frank Ragnow in the first may seem like a reach to some, but it really wasn’t. He would have gone quickly, maybe with the very next pick to the Bengals. Kerryon Johnson is solid, but there were better options at running back at that slot. Da’Shawn Hand is a solid player who fits this scheme, but trading a third-rounder in next year’s draft to get him was too steep. Tracy Walker is promising, but was taken a round or two early. Tyrell Crosby is my favorite pick in this group, with his versatility and upside. Where’s the edge rusher, or the off-ball linebacker? Still plenty of work to be done with this roster.): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/nfl-draft-grades-2018-instant-analysis-every-team/2/
Walterfootball (C: Goals Entering the 2018 NFL Draft: Despite the hiring of former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as head coach, the Lions absolutely have to bolster their defense. Help is needed at every level, especially on the defensive line, where there are multiple holes that must be plugged. 2018 NFL Draft Accomplishments: While their mentor spent lots of energy trading down in this class, Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn moved up on a couple of occasions. They did so in the second round, getting running back Kerryon Johnson at No. 43. They then gave New England a 2019 third-round pick to get Da'Shawn Hand in the fourth frame. Hand should help the defensive front, but using multiple resources to get him, including a second-day choice in next year's superior class, seems like a mistake. Speaking of errors, the Lions made a horrendous pick in the third round, reaching greatly for safety Tracy Walker, who may have been available in the fifth frame. This selection alone will weigh down Detroit's overall grade. There were plenty of safeties available - teams don't value that position very highly right now, which is why they all fell - so there was no reason to make a desperation grab for a mid-round prospect. The Lions did some nice things in this draft - they bolstered their offensive line with center Frank Ragnow, and they found a great bargain in tackle Tyrell Crosby in the fifth round - but their unnecessary trades and reaches, as well as their reluctance to address the defensive front beyond Hand, will ensure that they won't have a positive overall grade.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgradesteam.php
SN (C-: Bob Quinn vowed to fixed the running game, and Ragnow's interior blocking will help. Trading up for Johnson, however, was questionable for the backfield, and Walker was a reach for the secondary. The Lions ignoring linebacker and tight end was not good.)http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2018-grades-winners-losers-best-worst-broncos-bills-seahawks/1wkh3jasql60m16rspf25mvqqd
Rotoworld Silva (Overview: GM Bob Quinn’s continued pass-rush avoidance is confusing. Ragnow addressed a need, but trading up for an ordinary running back in Johnson unnecessarily cost Detroit a top-120 pick. An upright runner who didn’t dominate in college, Johnson reminds of a less-explosive version of Darren McFadden stylistically. It was surprising to see Walker go in the third round after he managed third-team all-conference honors in the Sun Belt last year. Walker himself admitted after the draft he expected to go multiple rounds later. Moving up for college underachiever Hand cost Detroit its 2019 third-round pick in a trade with the Pats. Crosby is an intriguing project to develop at right tackle or guard. Bawden was the best blocking fullback in the nation the last two years. It doesn’t help that the Lions coughed up their sixth-round pick in last year’s trade for Greg Robinson, who is no longer on the team. Grade: D): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/nfl/79568/174/2018-nfc-draft-grades
Shutdown Corner (Analysis: Center Frank Ragnow is a good player, but it still feels the Lions needed to get premium pass rush help early on. Running back Kerryon Johnson didn’t seem like a good value with the 11th pick of the second round, and they gave up a fourth-round pick to move up eight spots to take him. You have to wonder if the Derrius Guice rumors scared them off the better player there. Safety Tracy Walker seemed like an even bigger reach in the third round. Alabama defensive lineman Da’shawn Hand and Oregon offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby were fine value picks, though Crosby’s reported concussion issues are an obvious concern. It’s an underwhelming class. Grade: D): https://sports.yahoo.com/final-2018-nfl-draft-grades-team-fare-dont-look-seattle-fans-184907310.html
Analysis:
Draft Analyst (Detroit Lions: Though they drafted no superstars, the Lions came away with a lot of talent that will produce at the next level. Frank Ragnow was steadily moving up draft boards and should quickly break into the starting lineup. Tyrell Crosby could be a bargain if his takes his game to the next level.Da'Shawn Hand will be a steal for the Lions.): http://draftanalyst.com/18-nfl-draft-overview-nfc
Schefter: Lions have robbed other NFL teams with every pick so far: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/04/28/schefter-lions-have-robbed-other-nfl-teams-with-every-pick-so-far/
Arthur Arkush's 5 least favorite NFL draft classes (Bob Quinn cares not for style but substance, and doubling up at OL and RB sends a clear message that this offense is eschewing finesse for a more power-based approach. Tyrell Crosby might turn out to be one of the draft's bigger steals, but they had to trade up Johnson, albeit an underrated back who'll carry the mail often with an edge, and Hand is a talented wildcard. Pass rush remains a big concern, and where does the lesser-known Walker fit in an already talented secondary? Quinn has invested a lot in the offensive line without the desired returns; even as a fast riser, Ragnow is a bit rich there for my liking.): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/28/4089964b72714df2900eea83c429045b/index.xml?page=1
PFF (Day 1: The Lions selected one of the players that PFF has been championing as a potential dominant force throughout the pre-draft process in Arkansas C Frank Ragnow. With a new coaching staff in the building, the Lions are making a concerted effort to get better at the line of scrimmage, and become a more powerful team, and Ragnow achieves that. He was a dominant run-blocker and did not allow a sack in pass protection throughout his entire college career. He was one of a few players that have distanced themselves as the best player we have seen at their respective positions since we have been grading college football, and those players typically translate very well to the next level. Ragnow should plug in to the middle of that offensive line and anchor it immediately, but he has shown the ability to play guard as well, starting at right guard against Alabama in 2017 and still grading very well. Day 2: The Lions shook up the draft board at the running back position by taking Kerryon Johnson out of Auburn over a couple of more celebrated prospects. Johnson only really has one excellent season of performance, with an overall grade of 87.8 in 2017, and he has an interesting style of running the ball, gliding to the hole and accelerating through it like Arian Foster. They also added Tracy Walker from Louisiana to the secondary. Walker is a safety who has covered the slot and has been a better run defender than he has been in coverage. Day 3: Tyrell Crosby’s slide was halted by the Lions who bring in a monstrous offensive lineman. At Oregon, he allowed only seven total pressures and no sacks in 2017 at left tackle, but has the size and power to move inside to guard and dominate. Completing their power-focus, they grabbed one of the few fullbacks in the draft with Nick Bawden in the seventh round. Bawden played the second-most snaps of any fullback in 2017 with 588, none of which were him carrying the ball. Overall grade: Below average): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-all-32-nfl-teams-2018-nfl-draft-grades
2018 NFL Draft, Rules Of Thumb (Thumbs Twiddling - To the Detroit Lions. I love adding two offensive linemen, including landing my No. 2 tackle Tyrell Crosby in the fifth round. Frank Ragnow makes the Lions interior OL one of the best in football if everyone is healthy, and Crosby can play guard or tackle and gives the unit real depth for the first time I can remember. Kerryon Johnson is a great fit at running back, and Tracy Walker could eventually take over for Glover Quin at safety. But the thumbs are twiddling because the No. 1 need on the team is pass rush, and GM Bob Quinn ignored it almost completely. Trading next year’s third rounder for an enigmatic complementary DE in DaShawn Hand is a poor choice, and a fullback for the final pick seems wasteful. Even so, the Lions landed five players in my top 90 overall talents (Hand included) and have devoted major resources to fixing the league’s worst rushing offense.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3047/2018-NFL-Draft-Rules-Of-Thumb
NFC NORTH: 2018 NFL Draft breakdown (Twentyman's take: It’s pretty clear from this draft that Quinn and Patricia value toughness and position versatility. Ragnow, Walker, Hand and even Crosby can play multiple positions. They all have a physical element to their games as well. I'd add Johnson to that list in terms of toughness. The Lions got tougher and more physical via this draft.) (5-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft/article-1/NFC-NORTH-2018-NFL-Draft-breakdown/d3436e05-5b34-4eae-a197-268f94ac51b4
Ranking every team's 2018 NFL draft class - The Broncos nail it while the Patriots stumble (22. Detroit Lions: The Lions reached for both Ragnow and Johnson, but Hand and Crosby were value picks who could make this ranking look foolish in a couple of years. We’ve ranked Detroit 23rd but would not be surprised if this is a top-15 class when all is said and done.): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/04/2018-nfl-draft-grades-rankings-analysis-broncos-giants-raiders-packers-redskins
Day 3 Grades and Analysis
Da'Shawn Hand:
Grades:
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Hand: The Lions gave up a third-round pick next year to get some help for the defensive line now. That’s the standard price to pay, and with an extra sixth-rounder already in pocket it’s a worthwhile gamble for a Lions team that needed to add some beef up front. Hand said at the Senior Bowl that he’d play primarily three-technique if he ended up with the Lions. He’s a solid player who fits the scheme, though far from a sure thing. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Hand: The Lions got their fourth-round pick back from the Patriots by trading a 2019 third-rounder in order to draft Hand, who could be a versatile player and provide much-needed help on the defensive line. Hand only started one season and didn’t have a ton of production, but he’s reuniting with his old ’Bama coach, Bo Davis, who could get the most out of him. B-minus): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
CBS (114. Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama - Grade: C. - Two-gapper. Strong. Very limited as a pass rusher.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-teams-pick-in-the-fourth-round/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Da'Shawn Hand, DE/DT, Alabama C Grade: The Lions just gave up a third-round pick to New England for this selection. Da'Shawn Hand better be worth it. He's a great fit for Detroit's new defense under Matt Patricia, but I don't think I would've dealt a 2019 third-rounder for him. There are some decent five-techniques still available, so this almost seemed like a panic move after the Lions failed to address their defensive line earlier.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades4.php
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: 2017 was supposed to be a breakout year for the one-time top recruit in the nation, but Hand didn’t deliver in his only season as a full-time starter at Alabama. It might have been due to a nagging knee injury he played through for most of the season, but he was too often stale-mated by inferior opponents. The talent is undeniable though, as Hand is a quick and fluid mover at nearly 300 pounds, capable of moving laterally to cover gaps, or exploding upfield. He could be molded into a 5-technique or 3-technique, and there will be plenty of coaching staffs willing to take on the challenge of unleashing his potential.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=4
NFL (Matt Patricia wants to instill more toughness to a defense that struggled to control the line of scrimmage last season. He wants to be multiple up front and Hand provides the versatility to fit that need. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=14&round=4
Detroit News (14 (114). Detroit (from Green Bay through Cleveland and New England): Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama - The Lions traded up to snag a talented pass-rusher in Hand. The future of DE Ziggy Ansah is unclear after this year and Hand could help fill the void if Ansah leaves. Hand was a five-star recruit that never really became elite in the SEC. He played well in the Senior Bowl and has all the physical tools to become a contributor.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
Tyrell Crosby:
Grades:
CBS (153. Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon,
Grade: A, Awesome value here. Nasty mauler. Plus athlete. Needs to get stronger. Tremendous depth. Can play guard.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-fifth-round-grades-and-analysis-for-every-teams-pick/
Walterfootball (Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon,
A Grade: The Lions had major problems whenever one of their tackles went down with an injury, so they had to find a solid reserve. Tyrell Crosby could end up being more than solid. He was a second-day prospect who would've gone much earlier if it weren't for some concussion concerns. Those might re-surface, but the fifth round is a nice time to take a chance.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Crosby: The interior of the offensive line wasn’t the only need the Lions had up front entering the draft. They didn’t have a viable backup tackle last season, and that came back to bite them when Taylor Decker and Rick Wagner went down with injuries. Crosby should back up both tackle spots this fall and has some flexibility to play inside at guard if needed. He missed most of the 2016 season with a foot injury, but started every game last season and at 6-feet-5 has great length with 35 ¼-inch arms. A-minus): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Crosby: He’s the perfect pick in the fifth round to add some badly needed depth at either tackle spot. He’s not an elite athlete, but he somehow found a way to not allow a single sack his senior year. He never played guard, so he lacks some flexibility, and he’s reportedly had some concussion issues. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: A mauling run blocker, Crosby also got the job done pass-protecting as a left tackle at Oregon, even if it didn’t always look beautiful. He’s a likely starter—and potentially a good one—for a team looking to set the tone with a physical run game.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=5
NFL (This is a nice value pick for the Lions, taking one of the better run blocking tackles in the draft. There's a learning curve coming from Oregon's passing scheme, but the traits are there to develop into a starter down the line. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=16&round=5
Detroit News (16 (153). Detroit: Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon - Crosby was a 2017 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer at Oregon and started 13 games last year. He has the requisite size for right tackle at 6-foot-5 and 309 pounds, but if that doesn't work out he may be moved to guard. He missed some time during his college years due to a broken left foot. He still needs to learn some technique, but he's got great length and run-blocks well. His ceiling is limited due to consistency issues.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
Nick Bawden:
Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State A Grade: A smart player and a stellar blocker, Nick Bawden will help inject some life into Detroit's dead running game. Kerryon Johnson has to be thrilled about this pick, and I happen to think that it deserves an "A" grade.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades7.php
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Bawden: It wasn’t even 12 months ago that the Lions got rid of Michael Burton and eliminated the fullback from their offense. Now, apparently, they’ve had a change of heart. Bawden was considered one of the two or three best fullbacks in the draft. He’s got decent enough hands to catch the ball out of the backfield and has blocked for 2,000-yard rushers each of the last two seasons, but has a bit of an injury history. The Lions probably wouldn’t have been able to sign him as priority free agent given the composition of their backfield, so I have no problem taking him with their final pick. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Bawden: He converted from quarterback after his freshman season and was the lead blocker for Donnel Pumphrey, the country’s top rusher in 2016, and Rashaad Penny in 2017. Could eventually fit in the mold of Patriots Pro Bowl fullback James Develin. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
CBS (237. Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State,
Grade: C-, Former quarterback who converted to fullback. Very willing to find someone to hit but isn't very accurate at the second level. When he finds his target, he delivers a major pop.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-round-7-draft-order-grades-for-picks-219-through-256/
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: A converted quarterback (he made two starts at QB as a freshman), Bawden bulked up and became one of the nation’s best fullbacks. He’s a classic lead blocker—physical but also a fluid-enough player to land blocks on the move. He’s limited as a receiver, but he has reliable enough hands when it’s dumped off to him. He’s the best option in this draft class for any team looking for a true lead blocker.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=7
NFL (You have to love the approach Detroit is taking to improving an abysmal run game. Matt Patricia understands the value of establishing physicality in the run game and closing out games. Bawden is the best blocking fullback in this class. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=19&round=7
Detroit News (19 (237). Detroit: Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego St. - Fullbacks are a dying breed in the NFL, and Bawden started his career at San Diego St. as a quarterback before becoming the lead blocker for the nation's top runner in 2016 (Donnel Pumphrey) and 2017 (Rashaad Penny). He can catch out of the backfield, make adjustments and engages potential tacklers well. The Lions are maybe showing a willingness to get creative on offense with this pick.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
Grades:
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Hand: The Lions gave up a third-round pick next year to get some help for the defensive line now. That’s the standard price to pay, and with an extra sixth-rounder already in pocket it’s a worthwhile gamble for a Lions team that needed to add some beef up front. Hand said at the Senior Bowl that he’d play primarily three-technique if he ended up with the Lions. He’s a solid player who fits the scheme, though far from a sure thing. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Hand: The Lions got their fourth-round pick back from the Patriots by trading a 2019 third-rounder in order to draft Hand, who could be a versatile player and provide much-needed help on the defensive line. Hand only started one season and didn’t have a ton of production, but he’s reuniting with his old ’Bama coach, Bo Davis, who could get the most out of him. B-minus): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
CBS (114. Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama - Grade: C. - Two-gapper. Strong. Very limited as a pass rusher.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-teams-pick-in-the-fourth-round/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Da'Shawn Hand, DE/DT, Alabama C Grade: The Lions just gave up a third-round pick to New England for this selection. Da'Shawn Hand better be worth it. He's a great fit for Detroit's new defense under Matt Patricia, but I don't think I would've dealt a 2019 third-rounder for him. There are some decent five-techniques still available, so this almost seemed like a panic move after the Lions failed to address their defensive line earlier.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades4.php
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: 2017 was supposed to be a breakout year for the one-time top recruit in the nation, but Hand didn’t deliver in his only season as a full-time starter at Alabama. It might have been due to a nagging knee injury he played through for most of the season, but he was too often stale-mated by inferior opponents. The talent is undeniable though, as Hand is a quick and fluid mover at nearly 300 pounds, capable of moving laterally to cover gaps, or exploding upfield. He could be molded into a 5-technique or 3-technique, and there will be plenty of coaching staffs willing to take on the challenge of unleashing his potential.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=4
NFL (Matt Patricia wants to instill more toughness to a defense that struggled to control the line of scrimmage last season. He wants to be multiple up front and Hand provides the versatility to fit that need. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=14&round=4
Detroit News (14 (114). Detroit (from Green Bay through Cleveland and New England): Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama - The Lions traded up to snag a talented pass-rusher in Hand. The future of DE Ziggy Ansah is unclear after this year and Hand could help fill the void if Ansah leaves. Hand was a five-star recruit that never really became elite in the SEC. He played well in the Senior Bowl and has all the physical tools to become a contributor.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
Tyrell Crosby:
Grades:
CBS (153. Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon,
Grade: A, Awesome value here. Nasty mauler. Plus athlete. Needs to get stronger. Tremendous depth. Can play guard.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-fifth-round-grades-and-analysis-for-every-teams-pick/
Walterfootball (Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon,
A Grade: The Lions had major problems whenever one of their tackles went down with an injury, so they had to find a solid reserve. Tyrell Crosby could end up being more than solid. He was a second-day prospect who would've gone much earlier if it weren't for some concussion concerns. Those might re-surface, but the fifth round is a nice time to take a chance.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Crosby: The interior of the offensive line wasn’t the only need the Lions had up front entering the draft. They didn’t have a viable backup tackle last season, and that came back to bite them when Taylor Decker and Rick Wagner went down with injuries. Crosby should back up both tackle spots this fall and has some flexibility to play inside at guard if needed. He missed most of the 2016 season with a foot injury, but started every game last season and at 6-feet-5 has great length with 35 ¼-inch arms. A-minus): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Crosby: He’s the perfect pick in the fifth round to add some badly needed depth at either tackle spot. He’s not an elite athlete, but he somehow found a way to not allow a single sack his senior year. He never played guard, so he lacks some flexibility, and he’s reportedly had some concussion issues. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: A mauling run blocker, Crosby also got the job done pass-protecting as a left tackle at Oregon, even if it didn’t always look beautiful. He’s a likely starter—and potentially a good one—for a team looking to set the tone with a physical run game.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=5
NFL (This is a nice value pick for the Lions, taking one of the better run blocking tackles in the draft. There's a learning curve coming from Oregon's passing scheme, but the traits are there to develop into a starter down the line. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=16&round=5
Detroit News (16 (153). Detroit: Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon - Crosby was a 2017 1st Team All-Pac-12 performer at Oregon and started 13 games last year. He has the requisite size for right tackle at 6-foot-5 and 309 pounds, but if that doesn't work out he may be moved to guard. He missed some time during his college years due to a broken left foot. He still needs to learn some technique, but he's got great length and run-blocks well. His ceiling is limited due to consistency issues.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
Nick Bawden:
Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State A Grade: A smart player and a stellar blocker, Nick Bawden will help inject some life into Detroit's dead running game. Kerryon Johnson has to be thrilled about this pick, and I happen to think that it deserves an "A" grade.): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades7.php
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Birkett - Bawden: It wasn’t even 12 months ago that the Lions got rid of Michael Burton and eliminated the fullback from their offense. Now, apparently, they’ve had a change of heart. Bawden was considered one of the two or three best fullbacks in the draft. He’s got decent enough hands to catch the ball out of the backfield and has blocked for 2,000-yard rushers each of the last two seasons, but has a bit of an injury history. The Lions probably wouldn’t have been able to sign him as priority free agent given the composition of their backfield, so I have no problem taking him with their final pick. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
Draft grades: B from Birkett, C+ from Monarrez (Monarrez - Bawden: He converted from quarterback after his freshman season and was the lead blocker for Donnel Pumphrey, the country’s top rusher in 2016, and Rashaad Penny in 2017. Could eventually fit in the mold of Patriots Pro Bowl fullback James Develin. B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-grades/561721002/
CBS (237. Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State,
Grade: C-, Former quarterback who converted to fullback. Very willing to find someone to hit but isn't very accurate at the second level. When he finds his target, he delivers a major pop.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-round-7-draft-order-grades-for-picks-219-through-256/
Analysis:
SI (Scouting Report: A converted quarterback (he made two starts at QB as a freshman), Bawden bulked up and became one of the nation’s best fullbacks. He’s a classic lead blocker—physical but also a fluid-enough player to land blocks on the move. He’s limited as a receiver, but he has reliable enough hands when it’s dumped off to him. He’s the best option in this draft class for any team looking for a true lead blocker.): https://www.si.com/draft/nfl/2018/draft-tracker?round=7
NFL (You have to love the approach Detroit is taking to improving an abysmal run game. Matt Patricia understands the value of establishing physicality in the run game and closing out games. Bawden is the best blocking fullback in this class. --Mark Dulgerian): https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks?pick=19&round=7
Detroit News (19 (237). Detroit: Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego St. - Fullbacks are a dying breed in the NFL, and Bawden started his career at San Diego St. as a quarterback before becoming the lead blocker for the nation's top runner in 2016 (Donnel Pumphrey) and 2017 (Rashaad Penny). He can catch out of the backfield, make adjustments and engages potential tacklers well. The Lions are maybe showing a willingness to get creative on offense with this pick.): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/04/28/live-updates-nfl-draft-day-3/34345839/
ESPN: http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33713/detroit-lions-2018-draft-analysis-for-every-selection
DB Tracy Walker Links from before the Draft
Scouting Reports:
Louisiana Lafayette Bio: http://www.ragincajuns.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5886
NFL: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/tracy-walker?id=32462018-0002-5600-361c-bcf96286cf5e
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/players/playerpage/2064676/tracy-walker
Draft analyst: http://draftanalyst.com/tracy-walker
Draft Scout: http://www.draftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=1007667&draftyear=2018&genpos=SS
Overall rankings (Average ranking is 190):
CBS (102. Tracy Walker): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Gil Brandt top 150 ( 113. Tracy Walker): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926643/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-top-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-101150
Draft Countdown (154. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/
Draft Scout (159. Tracy Walker): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=150
Rotoworld Thor (270. Tracy Walker): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board
Draft Tek (342. Tracy Walker): https://www.drafttek.com/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018-Page-4.asp
Positional rankings (Average Ranking is 13):
CBS (SS - 4. Tracy Walker): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/strong-safeties/
Draft Scout (SS - 7. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_players.php?genpos=SS&draftyear=2018&sortby=tsxpos&order=ASC
Draft Countdown (S - 12. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-safety-rankings/
Draft Tek (S - 27. Tracy Walker): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-Safeties-2018-Draft.asp
Articles:
PFW's Draft Options: Safety (Mid-round value: The depth of the safety class of 2018 isn't great. Penn State's Troy Apke made a name for himself with a blazing 40 at the Combine and uses that speed to close on plays in game action. Virginia Tech's Terrell Edmunds has impressive measurables and versatile upside for the back end. Louisiana's Tracy Walker plays with an aggressive style and has enough speed to at least be an option in the kicking game, while Texas' DeShon Elliot is more of a physical presence at the position.) (4-25-18): http://www.patriots.com/news/2018/04/25/pfws-draft-options-safety
NFL Draft: Tier 3 Safeties (11. TRACY WALKER, Louisiana-Lafayette (6-1, 206): Walker was a four-year starter who finished his career with 276 tackles, eight interceptions, 34 passes defensed and two forced fumbles. As a senior, he had a career-high 97 tackles, 3.5 tackles for losses, eight passes defensed and two interceptions. The tackles and passes defensed set career highs; Walker’s career high for interception came as a junior with three. Despite all of the college experience, he’s still relatively new to the sport, having not played it until his junior year of high school. At the Combine, he ran his 40 in 4.51 but put up more modest numbers on the bench (14), vertical (33), shuttle (4.28) and three-cone (7.00). He was effective in regular action in the slot. With 33 1/2-inch arms, he might be worth a look at corner. “Definitely me coming from a smaller school, definitely I have to show a lot more,” he said. “I don’t come from a Florida State or Texas A&M, so I’m here for a reason and I’m definitely going to use the time here to showcase my talents. I feel like I’m just as good as any other safety, so I just got to prove it now.”) (4-25-18): https://www.scout.com/Article/Green-Bay-Packers-NFL-Draft-Preview-Tier-3-Safeties-117677630
UL's Walker considers pre-NFL Draft position 'a blessing' (4-25-18): https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/ul/2018/04/25/uls-tracy-walker-calls-pre-nfl-draft-position-blessing/550426002/
His Ragin' Cajuns track days over, Brazil still chasing NFL dream (4-7-18): http://www.theadvocate.com/acadiana/sports/ul_lafayette/article_006f4378-3aba-11e8-a752-3f8e1c9774f5.html
Pro Day (there is a picture of Lions DB coach working out Walker) (Defensive back Tracy Walker did not take part in the 40-yard dash or the shuttle drills as he opted to let his numbers from February’s NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis stand for themselves. Walker, who was the only Cajun invited to the Combine and only one who took part in the East-West Shrine Game, is projected to be a late-round draft pick but he isn’t the only one that could receive an invite to a camp or be signed as an undrafted free agent.) (4-6-18): https://www.iberianet.com/sports/pro-day/article_f258d596-394d-11e8-9e26-6b53b5556bca.html
UL Pro Day (Lions DB coach in the beginning of the video) (4-6-18): https://kadn.com/ul-football-nfl-pro-day/
Tracy Walker Dishes On His NFL Scouting Combine Experience[Audio] (3-7-18): http://espn1420.com/tracy-walker-dishes-on-his-nfl-scouting-combine-experience-audio/
Former UL Safety Tracy Walker On Preparing For NFL (1-31-18): https://kadn.com/ul-football-nfl-pro-day/
5 Shrine Game week standouts who can help Texans right away (Tracy Walker, safety, Louisiana Lafayette: A productive tackler for the Ragin’ Cajuns who logged starting reps all four years, Walker proved more responsible and rangier in coverage than he showed on film. He’s athletic enough to have taken some reps at running back, and it’s easy to see how he uses that to sniff out where the RB is looking to run. Walker’s performance in the actual game was uneven: a dropped INT and a facemask penalty on the same drive, but two strong tackles and another PD otherwise. Even more appealing for the Texans: at this point, it seems unlikely Walker will be drafted, but rather a priority free agent.) (1-20-18):
https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2018/01/20/5-shrine-game-week-standouts-who-can-help-texans-right-away/amp/
Walker meteoroid-Like' at East-West Shrine Game (1-20-18): http://www.katc.com/story/37307723/walker-meteoroid-like-at-east-west-shrine-game
2018 Shrine Game: East Practice (Monday-Tuesday) (1-16-18): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3027/2018-Shrine-Game-East-Practice-(monday-Tuesday)
Brunswick High grad to play in Shrine Game (1-16-18): https://thebrunswicknews.com/sports/local_sports/brunswick-high-grad-to-play-in-shrine-game/article_6c3cf85d-f4d9-5ee7-a6b3-03210bd8076f.html
Former UL DB Tracy Walker Impressing At Shrine Game (1-13-18): http://espn1420.com/former-ul-db-tracy-walker-impressing-at-shrine-game/
Week 11 risers and Sliders (Sliders - Tracy Walker/S/Louisiana-Lafayette: Walker was graded as a potential second-day pick by scouts before the season, but on film he looks like a last-day player. There’s nothing outstanding about his game. Walker is a solid run defender (59 tackles in nine games) and a solid pass defenders (two INTs this season), yet his play does not warrant a second-day grade.) (11-13-18): http://draftanalyst.com/week-11-risers-sliders
Cajuns safeties Tracy Walker and Travis Crawford get sharper (8-21-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/acadiana/sports/ul_lafayette/article_7c4da688-837c-11e7-ad0c-e764f08f8455.html
UL's Tracy Walker: A loud leader of the defense (8-12-18): https://www.theadvertiser.com/videos/sports/college/ul/2017/08/12/uls-tracy-walker-loud-leader-defense/104528092/
Louisiana Lafayette Bio: http://www.ragincajuns.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5886
NFL: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/tracy-walker?id=32462018-0002-5600-361c-bcf96286cf5e
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/players/playerpage/2064676/tracy-walker
Draft analyst: http://draftanalyst.com/tracy-walker
Draft Scout: http://www.draftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=1007667&draftyear=2018&genpos=SS
Overall rankings (Average ranking is 190):
CBS (102. Tracy Walker): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Draft Countdown (154. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/
Draft Scout (159. Tracy Walker): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=150
Rotoworld Thor (270. Tracy Walker): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board
Draft Tek (342. Tracy Walker): https://www.drafttek.com/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018-Page-4.asp
Positional rankings (Average Ranking is 13):
CBS (SS - 4. Tracy Walker): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/strong-safeties/
Draft Scout (SS - 7. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_players.php?genpos=SS&draftyear=2018&sortby=tsxpos&order=ASC
Draft Countdown (S - 12. Tracy Walker): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-safety-rankings/
Draft Tek (S - 27. Tracy Walker): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-Safeties-2018-Draft.asp
Articles:
PFW's Draft Options: Safety (Mid-round value: The depth of the safety class of 2018 isn't great. Penn State's Troy Apke made a name for himself with a blazing 40 at the Combine and uses that speed to close on plays in game action. Virginia Tech's Terrell Edmunds has impressive measurables and versatile upside for the back end. Louisiana's Tracy Walker plays with an aggressive style and has enough speed to at least be an option in the kicking game, while Texas' DeShon Elliot is more of a physical presence at the position.) (4-25-18): http://www.patriots.com/news/2018/04/25/pfws-draft-options-safety
NFL Draft: Tier 3 Safeties (11. TRACY WALKER, Louisiana-Lafayette (6-1, 206): Walker was a four-year starter who finished his career with 276 tackles, eight interceptions, 34 passes defensed and two forced fumbles. As a senior, he had a career-high 97 tackles, 3.5 tackles for losses, eight passes defensed and two interceptions. The tackles and passes defensed set career highs; Walker’s career high for interception came as a junior with three. Despite all of the college experience, he’s still relatively new to the sport, having not played it until his junior year of high school. At the Combine, he ran his 40 in 4.51 but put up more modest numbers on the bench (14), vertical (33), shuttle (4.28) and three-cone (7.00). He was effective in regular action in the slot. With 33 1/2-inch arms, he might be worth a look at corner. “Definitely me coming from a smaller school, definitely I have to show a lot more,” he said. “I don’t come from a Florida State or Texas A&M, so I’m here for a reason and I’m definitely going to use the time here to showcase my talents. I feel like I’m just as good as any other safety, so I just got to prove it now.”) (4-25-18): https://www.scout.com/Article/Green-Bay-Packers-NFL-Draft-Preview-Tier-3-Safeties-117677630
UL's Walker considers pre-NFL Draft position 'a blessing' (4-25-18): https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/ul/2018/04/25/uls-tracy-walker-calls-pre-nfl-draft-position-blessing/550426002/
His Ragin' Cajuns track days over, Brazil still chasing NFL dream (4-7-18): http://www.theadvocate.com/acadiana/sports/ul_lafayette/article_006f4378-3aba-11e8-a752-3f8e1c9774f5.html
Pro Day (there is a picture of Lions DB coach working out Walker) (Defensive back Tracy Walker did not take part in the 40-yard dash or the shuttle drills as he opted to let his numbers from February’s NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis stand for themselves. Walker, who was the only Cajun invited to the Combine and only one who took part in the East-West Shrine Game, is projected to be a late-round draft pick but he isn’t the only one that could receive an invite to a camp or be signed as an undrafted free agent.) (4-6-18): https://www.iberianet.com/sports/pro-day/article_f258d596-394d-11e8-9e26-6b53b5556bca.html
UL Pro Day (Lions DB coach in the beginning of the video) (4-6-18): https://kadn.com/ul-football-nfl-pro-day/
Tracy Walker Dishes On His NFL Scouting Combine Experience[Audio] (3-7-18): http://espn1420.com/tracy-walker-dishes-on-his-nfl-scouting-combine-experience-audio/
Former UL Safety Tracy Walker On Preparing For NFL (1-31-18): https://kadn.com/ul-football-nfl-pro-day/
5 Shrine Game week standouts who can help Texans right away (Tracy Walker, safety, Louisiana Lafayette: A productive tackler for the Ragin’ Cajuns who logged starting reps all four years, Walker proved more responsible and rangier in coverage than he showed on film. He’s athletic enough to have taken some reps at running back, and it’s easy to see how he uses that to sniff out where the RB is looking to run. Walker’s performance in the actual game was uneven: a dropped INT and a facemask penalty on the same drive, but two strong tackles and another PD otherwise. Even more appealing for the Texans: at this point, it seems unlikely Walker will be drafted, but rather a priority free agent.) (1-20-18):
https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2018/01/20/5-shrine-game-week-standouts-who-can-help-texans-right-away/amp/
Walker meteoroid-Like' at East-West Shrine Game (1-20-18): http://www.katc.com/story/37307723/walker-meteoroid-like-at-east-west-shrine-game
2018 Shrine Game: East Practice (Monday-Tuesday) (1-16-18): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3027/2018-Shrine-Game-East-Practice-(monday-Tuesday)
Brunswick High grad to play in Shrine Game (1-16-18): https://thebrunswicknews.com/sports/local_sports/brunswick-high-grad-to-play-in-shrine-game/article_6c3cf85d-f4d9-5ee7-a6b3-03210bd8076f.html
Former UL DB Tracy Walker Impressing At Shrine Game (1-13-18): http://espn1420.com/former-ul-db-tracy-walker-impressing-at-shrine-game/
Week 11 risers and Sliders (Sliders - Tracy Walker/S/Louisiana-Lafayette: Walker was graded as a potential second-day pick by scouts before the season, but on film he looks like a last-day player. There’s nothing outstanding about his game. Walker is a solid run defender (59 tackles in nine games) and a solid pass defenders (two INTs this season), yet his play does not warrant a second-day grade.) (11-13-18): http://draftanalyst.com/week-11-risers-sliders
Cajuns safeties Tracy Walker and Travis Crawford get sharper (8-21-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/acadiana/sports/ul_lafayette/article_7c4da688-837c-11e7-ad0c-e764f08f8455.html
UL's Tracy Walker: A loud leader of the defense (8-12-18): https://www.theadvertiser.com/videos/sports/college/ul/2017/08/12/uls-tracy-walker-loud-leader-defense/104528092/
Nick Bawden Links from before the Draft
RB Nick Bawden:
Scouting Reports:
SDSU Profile: http://www.goaztecs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/nick_bawden_890414.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/nick-bawden?id=2559893
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131612&draftyear=2018&genpos=FB
Draft Analyst: http://draftanalyst.com/nick-bawden
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/player-blurb-nick-bawden-fb-san-diego-state/
Overall Rankings:
Draft Scout (224. FB Nick Bawden): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=200
Draft Tek (339. FB Nick Bawden): https://www.drafttek.com/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018-Page-4.asp
Positional Rankings (Average FB Ranking is 4):
Draft Scout (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_players.php?genpos=FB&draftyear=2018&sortorder=tsxpos&order=ASC
Draft Analyst (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=FB&year=
Draft Countdown (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-fullback-rankings/
Walterfootball (FB - 5. Nick Bawden: 4/24/18: It isn't easy for a fullback to earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl, as the event only has a very limited number of them competing in Mobile. There are fullbacks all across college football striving to get one of those few spots at the Senior Bowl. One of the fullbacks who earned one of those elusive invitations year was Bawden. He had a decent week in Mobile. Bawden has the size to be a lead blocker in the NFL and played quarterback early in his collegiate career. Bawden caught 15 passes per season over the last two years, totaling 240 yards and a touchdown.): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018FB.php
Draft Tek (FB - 5. Nick Bawden): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-COllege-Fullbacks-2018-Draft.asp
Articles:
O'HARA'S 2018 DRAFT PREVIEW: Running backs (Fullback: The position’s value has been diminished in recent seasons as teams have turned to using players at other positions to take limited snaps at fullback. The Lions are an example of that. They did not carry a fullback last season. Linebacker Nick Bellore was used often in short-yardage situations. He caught a TD pass against the Ravens. Nick Bawden of San Diego State is the top-rated fullback this year. He played more than 500 offensive snaps last year, primarily as a lead blocker for Rashaad Penny. Bawden had 15 catches for 103 yards and a TD, but did not have a carry from scrimmage.) (4-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/road-to-the-draft/article-1/OHARAS-2018-DRAFT-PREVIEW-Running-backs/8eff737f-df88-467d-903c-b5ad1399e2ec
SDSU Pro Day: Fullback Nick Bawden gets chance to shine for pro day (3-23-18): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-sdsu-pro-day-nick-bawden-0323-story.html
Combine Notes: Day 3 Evening Report (On the injury front, I was informed that Nick Bawden, the powerful fullback from San Diego State, was diagnosed with a Jones fracture in his foot and will not work out at the combine.) (3-2-18): http://draftanalyst.com/combine-notes-day-3-evening-report
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Bawden is a strong lead blocker, but don’t pigeon hole him completely—he’s a former quarterback who can catch the ball.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: More of a blocker than a receiving threat, Bawden stood out for his awareness picking up the blitz and his strength and fundamentals as a run blocker. As a result, a team planning to run a traditional backfield may look his way at the end of the third day.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Bawden isn't much of a threat as a receiver but shows good blocking ability and awareness, picking off free runners off the edge to allow an extra blocker to stay in the box on run plays.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Bawden continued to look good as a blocker, showing good strength and working with a solid base in pass protection.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
11 observations from Senior Bowl Day 1 (8. San Diego State fullback Nick Bawden runs well for a large individual. I watched him during running back drills and he’s, shall we say, acceptable, if that’s the right way of saying it. But, he’s going to get paid to mash some linebackers. I saw him sift through the trash to find a South linebacker during an inside run drill and introduce himself with authority. In fact, a couple of plays later, in a similar matchup that same linebacker tried to slip the block and Bawden caught him in the chops again.) (1-23-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/11-observations-from-Senior-Bowl-Day-1/b42730b7-997f-4792-8fc9-4f0d75a9b617
Senior Bowl Top 20: South squad (6. I love San Diego State fullback/H-back Nick Bawden (6-3, 245). Why were Donnel Humphrey and Penny record setting running backs at San Diego State? Well, they were very good, but Bawden was instrumental in opening lanes for those two backs the past four years.) (1-22-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/Senior-Bowl-Top-20-South-squad-/02410200-e536-4793-bad7-cc6685b6d2c5
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 2 Bowls (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State: It isn't easy for a fullback to earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl as the event only has a very limited number of them competing in Mobile. There are fullbacks all across college football striving to get one of those few spots at the Senior Bowl. One of the fullbacks who earned one of those elusive invitations year is Bawden. The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder has the size to be a lead blocker in the NFL and is a good athlete, having played quarterback early in his collegiate career. Bawden has caught 15 passes per season over the last two years, totaling 240 yards and a touchdown. He could work himself into being a third-day pick in the 2018 NFL Draft with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.) (12-26-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_17.php
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State - 2016 Pro Football Focus First-Team All-American. Began his career at quarterback before switching to fullback to become the lead blocker for one of the nation's best ground games.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
3 Things We Learned in the Aztecs' Win over New Mexico (2. Nick Bawden found a home at fullback. Senior Nick Bawden came to SDSU four years ago as a quarterback. He even made two starts among five appearances during the 2014 season as a true freshman before being switched three years ago to fullback. Obviously, he found his true calling. Bawden is a bruising blocker who led the interference for first D.J. Pumphrey and now Rashaad Penny to become 2,000-yard running backs. They are the first teammates in NCAA history to accomplish it in back-to-back years, making Bawden the only fullback who has ever cleared the way. Beyond that, Bawden proved an able receiver — even with his right hand wrapped like a club most of the season. Three weeks ago, he hurdled a San Jose State defender to reach the end zone for his first career touchdown. On Friday, with his right hand healed and unencumbered he used it to impressively throw a would-be New Mexico tackler off him to gain extra yardage. “I'm having so much fun doing what I'm doing now,” said Bawden, whose clean-cut media guide mugshot looks nothing like the long-haired guy who sat for a postgame press conference looking like he was ready to head right back out for another four quarters. “I can't imagine still being at quarterback, honestly. I don't know what that would be like. I get to play real football now. “No offense to (Christian) Chapman. Chapman is one of the toughest guys on the team. I get to go around and hit people, man. I have so much fun doing that. Blocking for guys like (Penny) and Pumph the past couple of years have been a blessing. I couldn't be in a better position now.” Professional scouts have taken note of Bawden the past two years and he’s expected to have an opportunity at the next level that likely wouldn’t have been there if he was still playing quarterback.) (11-25-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-azfoot-3-things-learned-vs-new-mexico-1126-story.html
Converted QB Bawden becoming beast at fullback (10-19-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-aztecs-20161018-story.html
Scouting Reports:
SDSU Profile: http://www.goaztecs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/nick_bawden_890414.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/nick-bawden?id=2559893
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131612&draftyear=2018&genpos=FB
Draft Analyst: http://draftanalyst.com/nick-bawden
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/player-blurb-nick-bawden-fb-san-diego-state/
Overall Rankings:
Draft Scout (224. FB Nick Bawden): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=200
Draft Tek (339. FB Nick Bawden): https://www.drafttek.com/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018-Page-4.asp
Positional Rankings (Average FB Ranking is 4):
Draft Scout (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_players.php?genpos=FB&draftyear=2018&sortorder=tsxpos&order=ASC
Draft Analyst (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=FB&year=
Draft Countdown (FB - 3. Nick Bawden): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-fullback-rankings/
Walterfootball (FB - 5. Nick Bawden: 4/24/18: It isn't easy for a fullback to earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl, as the event only has a very limited number of them competing in Mobile. There are fullbacks all across college football striving to get one of those few spots at the Senior Bowl. One of the fullbacks who earned one of those elusive invitations year was Bawden. He had a decent week in Mobile. Bawden has the size to be a lead blocker in the NFL and played quarterback early in his collegiate career. Bawden caught 15 passes per season over the last two years, totaling 240 yards and a touchdown.): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018FB.php
Draft Tek (FB - 5. Nick Bawden): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-COllege-Fullbacks-2018-Draft.asp
Articles:
O'HARA'S 2018 DRAFT PREVIEW: Running backs (Fullback: The position’s value has been diminished in recent seasons as teams have turned to using players at other positions to take limited snaps at fullback. The Lions are an example of that. They did not carry a fullback last season. Linebacker Nick Bellore was used often in short-yardage situations. He caught a TD pass against the Ravens. Nick Bawden of San Diego State is the top-rated fullback this year. He played more than 500 offensive snaps last year, primarily as a lead blocker for Rashaad Penny. Bawden had 15 catches for 103 yards and a TD, but did not have a carry from scrimmage.) (4-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/road-to-the-draft/article-1/OHARAS-2018-DRAFT-PREVIEW-Running-backs/8eff737f-df88-467d-903c-b5ad1399e2ec
SDSU Pro Day: Fullback Nick Bawden gets chance to shine for pro day (3-23-18): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-sdsu-pro-day-nick-bawden-0323-story.html
Combine Notes: Day 3 Evening Report (On the injury front, I was informed that Nick Bawden, the powerful fullback from San Diego State, was diagnosed with a Jones fracture in his foot and will not work out at the combine.) (3-2-18): http://draftanalyst.com/combine-notes-day-3-evening-report
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Bawden is a strong lead blocker, but don’t pigeon hole him completely—he’s a former quarterback who can catch the ball.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: More of a blocker than a receiving threat, Bawden stood out for his awareness picking up the blitz and his strength and fundamentals as a run blocker. As a result, a team planning to run a traditional backfield may look his way at the end of the third day.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Bawden isn't much of a threat as a receiver but shows good blocking ability and awareness, picking off free runners off the edge to allow an extra blocker to stay in the box on run plays.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Bawden continued to look good as a blocker, showing good strength and working with a solid base in pass protection.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
11 observations from Senior Bowl Day 1 (8. San Diego State fullback Nick Bawden runs well for a large individual. I watched him during running back drills and he’s, shall we say, acceptable, if that’s the right way of saying it. But, he’s going to get paid to mash some linebackers. I saw him sift through the trash to find a South linebacker during an inside run drill and introduce himself with authority. In fact, a couple of plays later, in a similar matchup that same linebacker tried to slip the block and Bawden caught him in the chops again.) (1-23-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/11-observations-from-Senior-Bowl-Day-1/b42730b7-997f-4792-8fc9-4f0d75a9b617
Senior Bowl Top 20: South squad (6. I love San Diego State fullback/H-back Nick Bawden (6-3, 245). Why were Donnel Humphrey and Penny record setting running backs at San Diego State? Well, they were very good, but Bawden was instrumental in opening lanes for those two backs the past four years.) (1-22-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/Senior-Bowl-Top-20-South-squad-/02410200-e536-4793-bad7-cc6685b6d2c5
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 2 Bowls (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State: It isn't easy for a fullback to earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl as the event only has a very limited number of them competing in Mobile. There are fullbacks all across college football striving to get one of those few spots at the Senior Bowl. One of the fullbacks who earned one of those elusive invitations year is Bawden. The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder has the size to be a lead blocker in the NFL and is a good athlete, having played quarterback early in his collegiate career. Bawden has caught 15 passes per season over the last two years, totaling 240 yards and a touchdown. He could work himself into being a third-day pick in the 2018 NFL Draft with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.) (12-26-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_17.php
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State - 2016 Pro Football Focus First-Team All-American. Began his career at quarterback before switching to fullback to become the lead blocker for one of the nation's best ground games.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
3 Things We Learned in the Aztecs' Win over New Mexico (2. Nick Bawden found a home at fullback. Senior Nick Bawden came to SDSU four years ago as a quarterback. He even made two starts among five appearances during the 2014 season as a true freshman before being switched three years ago to fullback. Obviously, he found his true calling. Bawden is a bruising blocker who led the interference for first D.J. Pumphrey and now Rashaad Penny to become 2,000-yard running backs. They are the first teammates in NCAA history to accomplish it in back-to-back years, making Bawden the only fullback who has ever cleared the way. Beyond that, Bawden proved an able receiver — even with his right hand wrapped like a club most of the season. Three weeks ago, he hurdled a San Jose State defender to reach the end zone for his first career touchdown. On Friday, with his right hand healed and unencumbered he used it to impressively throw a would-be New Mexico tackler off him to gain extra yardage. “I'm having so much fun doing what I'm doing now,” said Bawden, whose clean-cut media guide mugshot looks nothing like the long-haired guy who sat for a postgame press conference looking like he was ready to head right back out for another four quarters. “I can't imagine still being at quarterback, honestly. I don't know what that would be like. I get to play real football now. “No offense to (Christian) Chapman. Chapman is one of the toughest guys on the team. I get to go around and hit people, man. I have so much fun doing that. Blocking for guys like (Penny) and Pumph the past couple of years have been a blessing. I couldn't be in a better position now.” Professional scouts have taken note of Bawden the past two years and he’s expected to have an opportunity at the next level that likely wouldn’t have been there if he was still playing quarterback.) (11-25-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-azfoot-3-things-learned-vs-new-mexico-1126-story.html
Converted QB Bawden becoming beast at fullback (10-19-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-aztecs-20161018-story.html
Tyrell Crosby Links from before the Draft
Tyrell Crosby:
Scouting Reports:
Oregon Bio: http://goducks.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7238
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/tyrell-crosby?id=2559836
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131240&draftyear=2018&genpos=OT
Draft Wire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/15/tyrell-crosby-nfl-draft-profile/
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018tcrosby.php
Overall Rankings (Average Ranking is 53):
PFW (35. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/03/22/nfl-draft-profile-no-35-oregon-ot-tyrell-crosby/apyz9jh/
CBS (40. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Rotoworld Thor (40. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board
Rotoworld Norris (41. Tyrell Crosby. Where He Wins: Left tackle. Squares shoulders towards his opponent and delivers a strong punch. If that punch puts the opposition off balance, Crosby finishes him with a nasty demeanor. Functional strength is there, so when footwork or punch is off, he can still complete his block. His goal in the running game is to create movement. Comparison: T Donald Penn, Raiders. Forecast: Not the testing athlete of some of his peers, but he plays within himself and can help a team early on. Coaches will love his on-field mentality.): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79419/325/norris-top-150-draft-board
Gil Brandt's Top 150 (42. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby missed most of 2016 with an injury but was named Pac-12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2017, when he did not allow a sack. He has very long arms (35 1/4 inches) and big hands (10 3/4 inches), but he needs to get stronger. He has the toughness and mental acuity to be very good in the NFL.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926642/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft
Dan Jeremiah's Top 50 (45. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby lined up at left tackle for the Ducks. He has a nice blend of size, power and instincts. In the passing game, he lacks upper-tier quickness, but he does a nice job of staying square, shooting his hands and steering opponents. He will have some trouble with elite speed rushers, but I believe he'll benefit from a move to the right side. I love what he brings in the run game. He consistently generates movement on down blocks and he's a nasty finisher. He also takes good angles when working up to the second level before latching and controlling linebackers. I wish he were a little more athletic, but he has all of the skills to be a solid starting right tackle.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928419/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-50-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-40
Draft Countdown (47. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/
Rob Rang's Top 100 (47. Tyrell Crosby: Statistics can be bent to prove a lot of things but one statistic every quarterback will appreciate about Crosby is that he did not allow a sack (or even a QB pressure) in 2017. The frightening thing (at least for opponents) is that Crosby is even better as a run blocker, showing the raw power and aggression prove a legitimate masher at the next level.): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rob-rang-s-final-top-100-big-board-99RsZLoYnE2-8K7uQfAB-A/?full=1
ESPN Jeff Legwold (47. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby looks more comfortable in the run game than in pass protection, so he could be looking at a move to right tackle or guard. He finishes blocks with purpose and plays with rare power.): http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/23201964/2018-nfl-draft-jeff-legwold-ranking-top-100-prospects-picks
NFL Draft Scout (50. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=25
Mike Mayock's Top 150 (65. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928186/article/mike-mayocks-2018-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings
PFF (71. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-big-board-top-250-players-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Walterfootball (75. Tyrell Crosby): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Draft Tek (90. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.drafttek.com/m/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018.asp
Positional Rankings (Average Ranking is 6):
NFL Real GM (OTs - 2. Tyrell Crosby: Plays tackle like a street fighter. Has solid length and arm reach, but his punch and placement can be wild. His feet are similar; Crosby can quick-step and square his targets but sometimes sets flat-footed or doesn’t extend his legs far enough. Can lock his shoulders, sink his hips and blow people into the sidelines. Does play a little top-heavy and he relies more on upper-body strength than most tackles. Winds up out in space but not engaged with anyone in the run game far more often than he should. Must learn to use his inside shoulder and post leg more consistently in pass protection. Compares to Rick Wagner with higher ceiling but lower floor. Second rounder to me.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3042/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospecting-Offensive-Linemen
Mike Mayock (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000927595/article/mike-mayocks-2018-nfl-draft-position-rankings-30
PFF (4. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is arguably the most physical tackle in the entire class. He’s also another player who has done it on both the left and right side in the college ranks. Crosby’s not going to win any awards for his athleticism, and could ultimately end up at guard, but he’s an easy projection as a run-blocker.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-ranking-the-ot-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Draft Scout (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://nfldraftscout.com/position-rankings/
Draft Countdown (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-offensive-tackle-rankings/
CBS (6. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/offensive-tackles/
Draft Analyst (6. Tyrell Crosby): http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=T&year=
Draft Tek (8. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-Offensive-Tackles-2018-Draft.asp
Walterfootball (12. Tyrell Crosby: 4/24/18: In the early going of 2017, Crosby had to work off some rust after missing almost all of 2016, but he still opened a lot of holes for running back Royce Freeman, who racked up a lot of yards on the year. Crosby did not allow a sack or hit on the quarterback in the first five games of the season. Crosby had a quality week at the Senior Bowl, and sources said Crosby helped himself. They have concerns about his height and lack of length to go along with a bad body, but really like his feet and athleticism. If Crosby gets stronger, he could be a quality starting left tackle in the NFL. 9/1/17: There was some hype and excitement heading into the 2016 season about Crosby, but his season was dashed after he only played in two full games due to suffering a season-ending foot injury in Week 3. Crosby has a good skill set and could rise if he plays well while avoiding injury as a senior.): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018OT.php
Articles:
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon: Some analysts had Crosby as a second-round pick. He’s a big-bodied prospect with a good anchor and a mean streak in the run game. Some team will covet his size, strength and length in Day 3. The Lions could be on the lookout for a young swing tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
NFL Draft: Hurst, Crosby, Hines among best left for day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, OT, 6-5, 309, Oregon: Crosby is a steady run blocker who might be better off at guard, but he is also a player who many evaluators viewed as not far off many of offensive linemen already taken. The Packers have the first pick of the fourth round and could use help along the offensive line.) (4-28-18): http://www.espn.com/espn/wire/_/section/nfl/id/23341393
NFL draft: Shaquem Griffin, Maurice Hurst lead list of names to watch for on Day 3 (Oregon OL Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is widely considered the best lineman left in the draft with the potential to become a regular starter. A 6-5, 310 tackle with brute strength, he may project better as a guard in the NFL because of technical deficiencies. A broken left foot during his junior season caused him to miss nine games, but he returned healthy to play in 13 games as a senior.) (4-28-18): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-shaquem-griffin-maurice-hurst-lead-list-names-watch-day-3-050514230.html
NFL Draft: Gabriel's best remaining players on offense entering Rounds 4-7 (Tyrell Crosby – Oregon: I’m surprised that he is still available. Has excellent tape and should be able to play guard or tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/28/93097682/index.xml?page=1
2018 NFL Draft: Best available prospects on Day 2 after a wild first round (Top 25 - Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon: On the subject of powerful offensive linemen, Crosby is a punisher at left tackle and his compact frame helps him deal with smaller, speedier edge-rushers. He'd be a fun addition to the Bears (No. 39) or Cowboys (No. 50).) (4-27-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-best-available-prospects-on-day-2-after-a-wild-first-round/
Best Players Still Available For Day 2 Of NFL Draft (OL - Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon- Struggled with various injuries this past season, but showed well in his first two seasons with the Ducks.) (4-27-18): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2018/04/27/best-players-available-day-2-nfl-draft-2018/
An anonymous scout told Bob McGinn Football that he believes Oregon T Tyrell Crosby will be a bust. ("I think he busts when it’s all said and done," the scout said. "He’s got skinny ankles. He’s not strong (17 reps on the bench)." Crosby was an analytical darling, but he hasn't been mentioned often among the best tackles in scouting services. Another scout in the report suggests that Crosby (6'4/310) would be better off moving to guard because of his poor feet. Crosby could be a Day 2 pick, but those concerns could push him further down the board than anticipated.) (4-26-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=133739&line=82519&spln=1
Tyrell Crosby Draft capsule (4-26-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_capsule_oregon_1.html
Former Oregon LT Tyrell Crosby spent last week taking visits to the Patriots and Lions — his last two of seven visits. New England is a team to watch, as they could target Nate Solder’s replacement. (4-24-18): https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/988800570189320192
Three man-moving prospects to watch in 2018 NFL Draft (Tyrell Crosby - Draft projection: Second or third round. We could've slid a tackle in here who has a more popular name. We even could have weaved a tale of redemption for Orlando Brown. But we'll instead go to the West Coast to pluck a Duck out of Oregon.Crosby got his first taste of big-time football during Oregon's run to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, and though he didn't come away with a title, he did gain valuable experience. His college career has been a series of hurdles, with sudden and drastic shifts in program health, coaching changes, multiple injuries, and even tragedy in his hometown of Las Vegas all experienced along the way. Out comes a lineman with plenty of perseverance and intestinal fortitude, a mean streak in the run game and some hardware, too. Crosby as named First Team All-Pac-12 in 2017 to go along with the Morris Trophy as the conference's best lineman, as voted on by those he faced. He also landed a well-deserved Senior Bowl invitation. Crosby is a road grader when run blocking. He has an ideal frame, a good base, adequate feet, good eyes for targeting opponents and a drive that often takes opponents unlucky enough to end up in his clutches 15-plus yards downfield. He's an ideal tackle to run off of thanks to these abilities. One will struggle to find a more consistent run blocker in this draft. His knock is in the passing game. His drops aren't quite as quick and smooth as one would like out of a left tackle in the NFL, leading many to project him more as a right tackle. There's also a small sample size of him in these situations due to Oregon's style of offense under Mark Helfrich, before their one-year romance with Willie Taggart. He also has a slight tendency to get tall in pass protection, which could hinder him in the future. Having said that, these are minor knocks for a player who looks like he could be a very solid right tackle in this league for quite some time. His film is impressive and at times laughable due to the absurdity of his run blocking. He literally drives opponents 20 yards downfield before swallowing them whole or planting them among the rubber pellets ingrained in artificial turf. Having seen his games live and then reviewed them again on tape, I'll be excited to see where he ends up, mainly because I think he's a bit of a hidden gem.) (4-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928076/article/three-manmoving-prospects-to-watch-in-2018-nfl-draft
NFL Draft: Offensive Player Thumbnails (Tyrell Crosby, 6-5, 325, Oregon - Strengths: Gets good push off the line as a run blocker. Weaknesses: Pass protection technique could land him at guard. Fact: A foot injury cost him much of his junior season or he would likely already be in the NFL. Gone by: End of Day 2.) (4-19-18): http://www.espn.com/espn/wire/_/section/nfl/id/23247028
Three 2018 NFL Draft prospects not getting enough love (Tyrell Crosby is one of the prospects that is picked) (4-17-17): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-mock-draft-live/0ap3000000927060/Three-2018-NFL-Draft-prospects-not-getting-enough-love
NFL Draft: Greg Gabriel's top 4 OT prospects (Tyrell Crosby – Oregon: Once we get past the top two tackles, there will be debate as to which guys come next. Going into the combine, Oklahoma’s Orlando Brown would have been in consideration, but his workout was so poor that he may not get selected before the third round. After watching the tape, my pick is Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby. He is another player who has experience at both right and left tackle. He only played in two games in 2016 because of a foot injury, so he still has some inexperience as far as playing time. Crosby measured in at 6-foot-4 ½ and 309 pounds at the combine, 10 pounds lighter than his Senior Bowl playing weight of 319. In Mobile, his arms measured at 34 3/8”, and in Indianapolis that number improved to 35¼". Crosby played very well for the Ducks, showing strength and power as a run blocker by consistently getting movement, and mirroring, cutting off wide speed and anchoring in pass protection. The tape shows he plays with good bend, but Crosby was a little straight legged at the Senior Bowl. Crosby will get drafted high — probably not the first round — but he will most likely get selected in Round Two. Once in the NFL, he should be able to play tackle or guard. It wouldn’t surprise me if he starts out at guard and then gets moved out to tackle after gaining experience.) (4-15-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/15/16268b9813394bbdaaf0aa8e7c759157/index.xml?page=1
Prospect Profile: Tyrell Crosby - ESPN Video (4-14-18): http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=23170251
Rang’s Gang a bounty of middle and late-round stealsRang’s Gang a bounty of middle and late-round steals (OT - Tyrell Crosby: Crosby dominated Pac-12 competition in 2017, not surrendering a sack or QB pressure and consistently clearing holes in the running game. Along with a prototypical frame and physical playing style, the reigning Morris Trophy Award winner — given to the league’s top offensive lineman as voted by the defensive linemen — possesses ideal intangibles, choosing to compete at the Senior Bowl and opting to switch his jersey number from 73 to 58 in the Las Vegas Bowl to honor the victims slain during a music festival held in his hometown a few months earlier.) (3-31-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rang-s-gang-a-bounty-of-middle-and-late-round-steals-O0xms0A76023mko8M1CQ1A?full=1
10 underrated west coast prospects (Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is our No. 5 ranked tackle and doesn’t get as much recognition as some of the other tackle prospects in the class but his production deserves attention. Crosby was an outstanding pass-protector in 2017 as he didn’t allow a sack and only two hits and five hurries on his 340 pass-blocking snaps. Crosby’s pass-blocking efficiency rating of 98.5 tied for sixth among all FBS draft-eligible offensive tackles. He is also an excellent run-blocker, especially on the move, and his 85.3 run-blocking grade ranked 10th among all FBS tackles. NFL teams will also highly value that Crosby has considerable playing time at both tackle spots, as he played 909 snaps at right tackle in 2015 and 937 snaps at left tackle in 2017.) (3-29-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-10-underrated-west-coast-prospects
5 boom-or-bust prospects for the 2018 NFL Draft (Tyrell Crosby – OT – Oregon: Tyrell Crosby was a physical force at Oregon, relying on a size and strength advantage to overwhelm defenders at the point of attack. It worked to an impressive degree and he had two seasons with an overall PFF grade of 85.0 or better, and he ended last season at a career-best mark of 87.3. Crosby allowed just seven total pressures across 13 games and was a force in the run game. The problem is, for a player who relied so much on size and strength, he tended to absorb defenders rather than overpower them and drive them out of the hole, which may call into question his biggest strength at the next level. As good as his pass-blocking numbers were, they were skewed by the system at Oregon where the quick pass was king. On average, the ball came out of the quarterbacks hands in under 2.5 seconds at Oregon last year. At the Senior Bowl, Crosby did well against almost everybody, but struggled against Oklahoma’s Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, a smaller edge rusher who was able to get Crosby off balance and work under his typical leverage. The NFL isn’t stacked with smaller pass-rushers, but there are plenty of players that can target that weakness and exploit leverage mismatches to expose Crosby more as a pass blocker. Big tackles bring an inherent tension between the positives that size brings and the negative side effect that size typically has on movement skills and agility. Crosby’s tape and numbers are impressive, but there will be concern about his capability of replicating it at the next level.) (3-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-5-boom-or-bust-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Price injured; Hernandez, Nelson impressive in OL bench press (Simple physics gives shorter-armed athletes a significant advantage in the bench press, which is why interior linemen often put up better numbers in the bench press than offensive tackles, who typically have arms 34 inches or longer. That helps explain why Oklahoma tackle Orlando Brown Jr. — who has 35-inch arms — recorded a position-worst 14 repetitions Thursday, with fellow tackles such as Pittsburgh’s Brian O’Neill (22 reps, 34 inches), Western Michigan’s Chukwuma Okorafor (19, 34 1/2), Louisville’s Geron Christian (19, 35) and Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby (17, 35 1/4) not fairing that much better.) (3-1-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/01/price-injured-hernandez-nelson-impressive-in-ol-bench-press-2/
2018 NFL combine: What we learned from RB and OL weigh-ins and measurements (OL Winners - Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon. Crosby is a fluid mover with a nasty side on the field. Hitting the 35-inch mark for arm length is huge.) (2-28-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-what-we-learned-from-rb-and-ol-weigh-ins-and-measurements/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 1 News & Notes (Kolton Miller, another top tackle target, impressed from a measurement standpoint when surpassing the 6-foot-8 mark and weighing in at 309 pounds. The UCLA tackle shared the biggest hand measurements of the day at 10.75 inches with Geron Christian, Louisville, and Tyrell Crosby, Oregon.) (2-28-17): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-1-news-notes
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Crosby is a sure thing in a tackle class that doesn’t have many. He’s thick and powerful, and if he gets his hands on you, you’re in trouble. Crosby (6’5) isn’t as long as some of his brethren, and he’s a little chunky, but his quick feet and surprising athleticism help him overcome those shortcomings. His next OL coach will have to iron out the technique. He looks like a long-time starter on the right side. His ceiling is lower than many others on this list, but the floor is high enough to comfortably make a Round 2 investment.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
NFL draft 2018: Oregon Ducks OT Tyrell Crosby's stock rising (2-13-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_draft_2018_oregon_ducks_ot.html
Prospect of the day: Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby (2-12-18): https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2018/02/12/prospect-of-the-day-oregon-ot-tyrell-crosby/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Analysis: Though Crosby had his moments, I felt he struggled most of the week. He’s a quick blocker who competes and stays square, but he gets tall in his stance, cannot handle outside speed rushers or adjust to shut down inside moves.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Report: North Team (Team sources told WalterFootball.com prior to the practice that Pitt offensive tackle Brian O'Neill and Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby helped themselves this week. They both had some nice wins in the one-on-ones to finish off their week. O'Neill has some athleticism and needs to continue to get stronger for the pro game. The height and lacking length of the 6-foot-4 Crosby worries some evaluators, but they feel his quick feet helped him to make up for it. They say Crosby doesn't have a good-looking body, but if he can develop his body he has potential for the NFL.) (1-26-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice5.php
2018 Senior Bowl: Notes From The Film Room, Including Quarterback Charting (On the offensive line, Brian O’Neill showed he’s a bit further away as a prospect than initially hoped. I compared him to Lane Johnson before the week, but his lack of hand timing and overall comfort as a pass blocker, especially on the right side, is a work in progress. He still will likely be a first-round prospect. Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby looked good this week, and his only issue is protecting inside leverage as a pass protector. His inside foot (especially his right when working at left tackle) needs to improve, as multiple inside counter rushes beat him this week. Virginia Tech’s Wyatt Teller improved greatly over the week.) (1-26-18): www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-notes-from-the-film-room-includin
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Thurs: Better day for Crosby but still needs a lot of work. Sets up quickly in pass pro and does a nice job staying square. Competes. Was beaten by inside moves, outside speed and got too tall in his blocks.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from Wednesday's practices highlighted by Josh Allen's vintage performance (Okoronkwo again utilized his long reach and pass-rushing moves in one-on-one and team drills. He had a would-be sack of Baker Mayfield -- on a rep against Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby.) (1-25-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-wednesdays-practices-highlighted-by-josh-allens-vintage-performance/?irgwc=1
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (Oregon left tackle Tyrell Crosby stood out in the North team practice not only in run blocking drills but also one-on-one pass blocking drills.) (1-25-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
2018 Senior Bowl: Thursday Rumor Mill (Some team sources like Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby as well. However, they have concerns about Crosby's height at 6-foot-4. Teams like their offensive tackles to be an inch or two taller, but Crosby has impressed evaluators with his quick feet. In a draft weak at the offensive tackle, Crosby could end up being a second-day pick.) (1-25-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018rumors4.php
Video - Which Senior Bowl participants are most pro-ready? (Dan Jeremiah picks Tyrell Crosby) (1-24-18): http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000910316
North Practice Report (In yesterday’s report I mentioned how impressive Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby looked at the weigh-in and now it’s time to highlight his on-field exploits. Crosby had another very good practice, physically dominating opponents at times. I’ve already noted what a massive human being Crosby is and he plays just like you’d expect. Powerful. Physical. Aggressive. On at least one rep in 1-on-1’s I saw Crosby put his pass rusher directly into the dirt with authority. Even though Crosby worked at left tackle as a senior and has gotten reps on the blindside down here as well, I still question whether he has the feet and agility to stick there at the next level. Some feel he can and only time will tell who’s right, but I tend to believe his best fit will come on the right side. After beginning the year with a late round grade, Crosby now appears to be firmly in Day 2. There might be a ceiling on how far he can climb due to the aforementioned athletic limitations, but with so much uncertainty at the offensive tackle position this year all bets could be off. If nothing else he should have a shot close the gap on, if not leapfrog, some of the guys he’s competing for draft position with. For instance, Martinas Rankin of Mississippi St. and Chukwuma Okorafor of Western Michigan who missed this opportunity in Mobile due to injuries.) (1/24/18): www.draftcountdown.com/north-practice-report-1-24-18/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Struggled all day. Makes good use of blocking angles but looks and plays like a marginal athlete, often finding himself off balance, and he was beaten on several occasions throughout practice.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 1 recap (Oregon tackle Tyrell Crosby also looked strong in drills and didn’t lose a single one-on-one battle.) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-1-recap
North Practice Report (Finally, Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby wasn’t the tallest or heaviest and didn’t have the top hand size, arm length or wingspan. With that said, he fared well in every one of those categories and is just a very large human being. Crosby has a big opportunity to help his stock this week, with a number of guys he’s competing with for draft position not participating for one reason or another.) (1/23/18): www.draftcountdown.com/north-practice-report-1-23-18/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: I was impressed with Crosby's footwork and ability to get off the edge, but he bends at the waist, lacks balance and was all over the place.) (1-23-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl: 7 potential breakout players (Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon, #73, North: Quarterbacks get all of the attention, but the NFL is every bit as desperate for help among pass blockers. The physically imposing Crosby, who was voted the Morris Trophy winner by Pac-12 defensive linemen as the best blocker in the conference, did not allow a sack in 2017 after missing almost off of the previous season with a broken foot. Agile, powerful and tenacious, the 6-5, 320-pounder checks in as NFLDraftScout.com’s sixth-rated tackle and No. 58 prospect.) (1-22-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/22/senior-bowl-7-potential-breakout-players/
2018 Senior Bowl Week (Oregon T Tyrell Crosby - With other prospects backing out, Crosby has a real chance to secure his place in the tackle rankings. It might not always look great, but Crosby consistently gets the job done and has natural strength. He can force defenders to the ground and also sustain against bigger opponents. Again, he is not visually appealing, but Crosby seems athletic and has plenty of left tackle experience.) (1-22-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77476/351/2018-senior-bowl-week
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Offensive Line (Tyrell Crosby: This year’s offensive tackle class brings the depth that was lacking in last year’s draft, and Crosby is one of the best prospects headed for the Day 2 range. A physical, athletic blocker with ideal size and arm length, Crosby could climb a few spots on the draft board with a strong week in Mobile. This 6-5, 320-pounder has all the physical tools to be a quality starter at left tackle in the NFL, and this is a perfect chance for him to prove that.) (1-21-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/21/2018-senior-bowl-preview-offensive-line/
At Senior Bowl, Oregon's Tyrell Crosby preparing for turn in NFL's spotlight (1-20-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2018/01/oregons_tyrell_crosby_preparin.html
NFL draft prospects to watch in Saturday's bowl games (OT Tyrell Crosby: Kiper position rank: No. 7 OT, Scouts Inc. ranking: No. 44 overall, Crosby is from the Las Vegas area and returns home for his final game in a season in which he has not allowed a sack, according to Pro Football Focus. He was named first-team All-Pac-12 a year after missing all but two games because of injury.) (12-16-17): http://www.espn.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/139784/nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-saturday-bowl-games
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 1 (Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby: Crosby leads all tackle prospects this year in pass blocking efficiency, as he has yet to surrender a sack or a hit and is responsible for just three total pressures against. He also has a run blocking grade of 84.3, making him one of the most impressive tackle prospects in the country in terms of all-around production.) (12-15-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-going-bowling-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-week-1
Scouting the Las Vegas Bowl: Boise State vs. Oregon (Our first Day 3 prospect in the Las Vegas Bowl is offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby. Crosby has incredible size, standing at 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, which is paired with great length. I’m not completely convinced Crosby has the athleticism to stay at left tackle in the NFL, as his feet don’t always look to have the speed to keep up with NFL-level edge rushers. He uses his size well and is an aggressive blocker, when he’s able to gain hand placement.) (12-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-las-vegas-bowl-boise-state-vs-oregon
Oregon Senior T Tyrell Crosby was the highest rated pass-blocker in the Pac-12, according to Pro Football Focus. (12-11-17): https://twitter.com/PFF_College/status/940370689948778497
10 takeaways (and more) after Oregon Ducks' bounce-back win over Arizona (3. Tyrell Crosby's own awards candidacy rolls on - Crosby, the senior left tackle, is in contention to join select company as just the fifth Oregon offensive lineman to earn first-team all-America honors, joining Hroniss Grasu (2014), Jake Fisher (2014), Gary Zimmerman (1983) and Steve Barnett (1961-62). Crosby had not allowed a sack or hit on the quarterback this season entering Saturday and was part of a line that helped UO rush for 353 yards and gave up one sack. There's a video in the link of Crosby pushing an edge defender out of the way of Royce Freeman's running lane. Linemen are notorious for being forgotten, but Crosby also had one of the game's sneaky-good highlights when his block on a Herbert run wiped out three Wildcats defenders. Video inside) (11-19-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/11/takeaways_from_oregons_bounce-.html
Willie Taggart's experience with losses key to pulling Oregon Ducks out of skid (Offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby, who missed that game with an injury and watched from the sideline, said that game had a "snowball" feeling. Once things started going poorly, it just kept getting worse. This year, Crosby said they've done better at minimizing negative momentum.) (11-2-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/11/taggarts_experience_with_losse.html
Oregon Ducks drop 3rd in a row, falling to UCLA Bruins: Game at a glance (Injury report: Defensive end Jalen Jelks had trainers look at what appeared to be his shoulder early in the second half but later re-entered and played. Safety Tyree Robinson was helped off the field in the third quarter after trainers looked at his right knee but later returned to play, too. Starting right guard Jake Pisarcik and running back Tony Brooks-James did not travel, due to concussions suffered one week ago. Left tackle Tyrell Crosby, who also suffered a concussion against Stanford, made the trip and started.) (10-21-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/10/oregon_ducks_football_ucla_bru.html
Left tackle Tyrell Crosby, right guard Jake Pisarcik and running back Tony Brooks-James are still going through concussion protocol after being injured against Stanford. (10-18-17): http://registerguard.com/rg/sports/football/36063105-69/oregon-ducks-coach-willie-taggart-says-qb-braxton-burmeister-will-start-at-ucla.html.csp
Nice guy off the field, mess with Oregon's Tyrell Crosby on it at your own peril (9-28-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/09/you_dont_want_to_mess_with_nic.html
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 4 (Tyrell Crosby: Tyrell Crosby’s 2016 season was cut short with a Week 3 foot injury but he has been a highly effective both as a run blocker and a pass protector in 2017 showing that his injury is behind him. Crosby has yet to surrender a sack or hit and has only yielded one pressure on his 137 pass-blocking snaps. Crosby’s pass blocking efficiency rating of 99.4 ranks No. 3 among all FBS tackles with at least 100 pass blocking snaps. Crosby has been equally impressive as a run blocker in 2017 and his 89.6 run blocking grade ranks No. 5 among all FBS offensive tackles.) (9-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-4
Oregon Ducks' Tyrell Crosby looking forward to facing Nebraska, one year after season-ending injury (9-5-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/09/oregons_tyrell_crosby_looking.html
Scouting Reports:
Oregon Bio: http://goducks.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7238
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/tyrell-crosby?id=2559836
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131240&draftyear=2018&genpos=OT
Draft Wire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/15/tyrell-crosby-nfl-draft-profile/
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018tcrosby.php
Overall Rankings (Average Ranking is 53):
PFW (35. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/03/22/nfl-draft-profile-no-35-oregon-ot-tyrell-crosby/apyz9jh/
CBS (40. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Rotoworld Thor (40. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79406/325/top-400-nfl-draft-big-board
Rotoworld Norris (41. Tyrell Crosby. Where He Wins: Left tackle. Squares shoulders towards his opponent and delivers a strong punch. If that punch puts the opposition off balance, Crosby finishes him with a nasty demeanor. Functional strength is there, so when footwork or punch is off, he can still complete his block. His goal in the running game is to create movement. Comparison: T Donald Penn, Raiders. Forecast: Not the testing athlete of some of his peers, but he plays within himself and can help a team early on. Coaches will love his on-field mentality.): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79419/325/norris-top-150-draft-board
Gil Brandt's Top 150 (42. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby missed most of 2016 with an injury but was named Pac-12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2017, when he did not allow a sack. He has very long arms (35 1/4 inches) and big hands (10 3/4 inches), but he needs to get stronger. He has the toughness and mental acuity to be very good in the NFL.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000926642/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft
Dan Jeremiah's Top 50 (45. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby lined up at left tackle for the Ducks. He has a nice blend of size, power and instincts. In the passing game, he lacks upper-tier quickness, but he does a nice job of staying square, shooting his hands and steering opponents. He will have some trouble with elite speed rushers, but I believe he'll benefit from a move to the right side. I love what he brings in the run game. He consistently generates movement on down blocks and he's a nasty finisher. He also takes good angles when working up to the second level before latching and controlling linebackers. I wish he were a little more athletic, but he has all of the skills to be a solid starting right tackle.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928419/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-50-prospects-for-2018-nfl-draft-40
Draft Countdown (47. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-top-300-overall/
Rob Rang's Top 100 (47. Tyrell Crosby: Statistics can be bent to prove a lot of things but one statistic every quarterback will appreciate about Crosby is that he did not allow a sack (or even a QB pressure) in 2017. The frightening thing (at least for opponents) is that Crosby is even better as a run blocker, showing the raw power and aggression prove a legitimate masher at the next level.): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rob-rang-s-final-top-100-big-board-99RsZLoYnE2-8K7uQfAB-A/?full=1
ESPN Jeff Legwold (47. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby looks more comfortable in the run game than in pass protection, so he could be looking at a move to right tackle or guard. He finishes blocks with purpose and plays with rare power.): http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/23201964/2018-nfl-draft-jeff-legwold-ranking-top-100-prospects-picks
NFL Draft Scout (50. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_top1000.php?draftyear=2018&sortby=rateall&order=ASC&startspot=25
Mike Mayock's Top 150 (65. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928186/article/mike-mayocks-2018-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings
PFF (71. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pff-big-board-top-250-players-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Walterfootball (75. Tyrell Crosby): http://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard
Draft Tek (90. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.drafttek.com/m/Top-100-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2018.asp
Positional Rankings (Average Ranking is 6):
NFL Real GM (OTs - 2. Tyrell Crosby: Plays tackle like a street fighter. Has solid length and arm reach, but his punch and placement can be wild. His feet are similar; Crosby can quick-step and square his targets but sometimes sets flat-footed or doesn’t extend his legs far enough. Can lock his shoulders, sink his hips and blow people into the sidelines. Does play a little top-heavy and he relies more on upper-body strength than most tackles. Winds up out in space but not engaged with anyone in the run game far more often than he should. Must learn to use his inside shoulder and post leg more consistently in pass protection. Compares to Rick Wagner with higher ceiling but lower floor. Second rounder to me.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3042/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospecting-Offensive-Linemen
Mike Mayock (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000927595/article/mike-mayocks-2018-nfl-draft-position-rankings-30
PFF (4. Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is arguably the most physical tackle in the entire class. He’s also another player who has done it on both the left and right side in the college ranks. Crosby’s not going to win any awards for his athleticism, and could ultimately end up at guard, but he’s an easy projection as a run-blocker.): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-ranking-the-ot-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Draft Scout (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://nfldraftscout.com/position-rankings/
Draft Countdown (4. Tyrell Crosby): http://www.draftcountdown.com/nfl-draft-ranking/2018-offensive-tackle-rankings/
CBS (6. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/offensive-tackles/
Draft Analyst (6. Tyrell Crosby): http://draftanalyst.com/ranking?position=T&year=
Draft Tek (8. Tyrell Crosby): https://www.drafttek.com/2018-NFL-Draft-Prospect-Rankings/Top-College-Offensive-Tackles-2018-Draft.asp
Walterfootball (12. Tyrell Crosby: 4/24/18: In the early going of 2017, Crosby had to work off some rust after missing almost all of 2016, but he still opened a lot of holes for running back Royce Freeman, who racked up a lot of yards on the year. Crosby did not allow a sack or hit on the quarterback in the first five games of the season. Crosby had a quality week at the Senior Bowl, and sources said Crosby helped himself. They have concerns about his height and lack of length to go along with a bad body, but really like his feet and athleticism. If Crosby gets stronger, he could be a quality starting left tackle in the NFL. 9/1/17: There was some hype and excitement heading into the 2016 season about Crosby, but his season was dashed after he only played in two full games due to suffering a season-ending foot injury in Week 3. Crosby has a good skill set and could rise if he plays well while avoiding injury as a senior.): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018OT.php
Articles:
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon: Some analysts had Crosby as a second-round pick. He’s a big-bodied prospect with a good anchor and a mean streak in the run game. Some team will covet his size, strength and length in Day 3. The Lions could be on the lookout for a young swing tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-weekend/article-1/TWENTYMAN-10-prospects-who-could-interest-Lions-on-Day-3/46e532d0-146e-4943-9ea2-ae5e85c5132f
NFL Draft: Hurst, Crosby, Hines among best left for day 3 (Tyrell Crosby, OT, 6-5, 309, Oregon: Crosby is a steady run blocker who might be better off at guard, but he is also a player who many evaluators viewed as not far off many of offensive linemen already taken. The Packers have the first pick of the fourth round and could use help along the offensive line.) (4-28-18): http://www.espn.com/espn/wire/_/section/nfl/id/23341393
NFL draft: Shaquem Griffin, Maurice Hurst lead list of names to watch for on Day 3 (Oregon OL Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is widely considered the best lineman left in the draft with the potential to become a regular starter. A 6-5, 310 tackle with brute strength, he may project better as a guard in the NFL because of technical deficiencies. A broken left foot during his junior season caused him to miss nine games, but he returned healthy to play in 13 games as a senior.) (4-28-18): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-shaquem-griffin-maurice-hurst-lead-list-names-watch-day-3-050514230.html
NFL Draft: Gabriel's best remaining players on offense entering Rounds 4-7 (Tyrell Crosby – Oregon: I’m surprised that he is still available. Has excellent tape and should be able to play guard or tackle.) (4-28-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/28/93097682/index.xml?page=1
2018 NFL Draft: Best available prospects on Day 2 after a wild first round (Top 25 - Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon: On the subject of powerful offensive linemen, Crosby is a punisher at left tackle and his compact frame helps him deal with smaller, speedier edge-rushers. He'd be a fun addition to the Bears (No. 39) or Cowboys (No. 50).) (4-27-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-best-available-prospects-on-day-2-after-a-wild-first-round/
Best Players Still Available For Day 2 Of NFL Draft (OL - Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon- Struggled with various injuries this past season, but showed well in his first two seasons with the Ducks.) (4-27-18): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2018/04/27/best-players-available-day-2-nfl-draft-2018/
An anonymous scout told Bob McGinn Football that he believes Oregon T Tyrell Crosby will be a bust. ("I think he busts when it’s all said and done," the scout said. "He’s got skinny ankles. He’s not strong (17 reps on the bench)." Crosby was an analytical darling, but he hasn't been mentioned often among the best tackles in scouting services. Another scout in the report suggests that Crosby (6'4/310) would be better off moving to guard because of his poor feet. Crosby could be a Day 2 pick, but those concerns could push him further down the board than anticipated.) (4-26-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=133739&line=82519&spln=1
Tyrell Crosby Draft capsule (4-26-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2018/04/2018_nfl_draft_capsule_oregon_1.html
Former Oregon LT Tyrell Crosby spent last week taking visits to the Patriots and Lions — his last two of seven visits. New England is a team to watch, as they could target Nate Solder’s replacement. (4-24-18): https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/988800570189320192
Three man-moving prospects to watch in 2018 NFL Draft (Tyrell Crosby - Draft projection: Second or third round. We could've slid a tackle in here who has a more popular name. We even could have weaved a tale of redemption for Orlando Brown. But we'll instead go to the West Coast to pluck a Duck out of Oregon.Crosby got his first taste of big-time football during Oregon's run to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, and though he didn't come away with a title, he did gain valuable experience. His college career has been a series of hurdles, with sudden and drastic shifts in program health, coaching changes, multiple injuries, and even tragedy in his hometown of Las Vegas all experienced along the way. Out comes a lineman with plenty of perseverance and intestinal fortitude, a mean streak in the run game and some hardware, too. Crosby as named First Team All-Pac-12 in 2017 to go along with the Morris Trophy as the conference's best lineman, as voted on by those he faced. He also landed a well-deserved Senior Bowl invitation. Crosby is a road grader when run blocking. He has an ideal frame, a good base, adequate feet, good eyes for targeting opponents and a drive that often takes opponents unlucky enough to end up in his clutches 15-plus yards downfield. He's an ideal tackle to run off of thanks to these abilities. One will struggle to find a more consistent run blocker in this draft. His knock is in the passing game. His drops aren't quite as quick and smooth as one would like out of a left tackle in the NFL, leading many to project him more as a right tackle. There's also a small sample size of him in these situations due to Oregon's style of offense under Mark Helfrich, before their one-year romance with Willie Taggart. He also has a slight tendency to get tall in pass protection, which could hinder him in the future. Having said that, these are minor knocks for a player who looks like he could be a very solid right tackle in this league for quite some time. His film is impressive and at times laughable due to the absurdity of his run blocking. He literally drives opponents 20 yards downfield before swallowing them whole or planting them among the rubber pellets ingrained in artificial turf. Having seen his games live and then reviewed them again on tape, I'll be excited to see where he ends up, mainly because I think he's a bit of a hidden gem.) (4-23-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000928076/article/three-manmoving-prospects-to-watch-in-2018-nfl-draft
NFL Draft: Offensive Player Thumbnails (Tyrell Crosby, 6-5, 325, Oregon - Strengths: Gets good push off the line as a run blocker. Weaknesses: Pass protection technique could land him at guard. Fact: A foot injury cost him much of his junior season or he would likely already be in the NFL. Gone by: End of Day 2.) (4-19-18): http://www.espn.com/espn/wire/_/section/nfl/id/23247028
Three 2018 NFL Draft prospects not getting enough love (Tyrell Crosby is one of the prospects that is picked) (4-17-17): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-mock-draft-live/0ap3000000927060/Three-2018-NFL-Draft-prospects-not-getting-enough-love
NFL Draft: Greg Gabriel's top 4 OT prospects (Tyrell Crosby – Oregon: Once we get past the top two tackles, there will be debate as to which guys come next. Going into the combine, Oklahoma’s Orlando Brown would have been in consideration, but his workout was so poor that he may not get selected before the third round. After watching the tape, my pick is Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby. He is another player who has experience at both right and left tackle. He only played in two games in 2016 because of a foot injury, so he still has some inexperience as far as playing time. Crosby measured in at 6-foot-4 ½ and 309 pounds at the combine, 10 pounds lighter than his Senior Bowl playing weight of 319. In Mobile, his arms measured at 34 3/8”, and in Indianapolis that number improved to 35¼". Crosby played very well for the Ducks, showing strength and power as a run blocker by consistently getting movement, and mirroring, cutting off wide speed and anchoring in pass protection. The tape shows he plays with good bend, but Crosby was a little straight legged at the Senior Bowl. Crosby will get drafted high — probably not the first round — but he will most likely get selected in Round Two. Once in the NFL, he should be able to play tackle or guard. It wouldn’t surprise me if he starts out at guard and then gets moved out to tackle after gaining experience.) (4-15-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/04/15/16268b9813394bbdaaf0aa8e7c759157/index.xml?page=1
Prospect Profile: Tyrell Crosby - ESPN Video (4-14-18): http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=23170251
Rang’s Gang a bounty of middle and late-round stealsRang’s Gang a bounty of middle and late-round steals (OT - Tyrell Crosby: Crosby dominated Pac-12 competition in 2017, not surrendering a sack or QB pressure and consistently clearing holes in the running game. Along with a prototypical frame and physical playing style, the reigning Morris Trophy Award winner — given to the league’s top offensive lineman as voted by the defensive linemen — possesses ideal intangibles, choosing to compete at the Senior Bowl and opting to switch his jersey number from 73 to 58 in the Las Vegas Bowl to honor the victims slain during a music festival held in his hometown a few months earlier.) (3-31-18): https://www.themaven.net/nfldraftscout/news/rang-s-gang-a-bounty-of-middle-and-late-round-steals-O0xms0A76023mko8M1CQ1A?full=1
10 underrated west coast prospects (Tyrell Crosby: Crosby is our No. 5 ranked tackle and doesn’t get as much recognition as some of the other tackle prospects in the class but his production deserves attention. Crosby was an outstanding pass-protector in 2017 as he didn’t allow a sack and only two hits and five hurries on his 340 pass-blocking snaps. Crosby’s pass-blocking efficiency rating of 98.5 tied for sixth among all FBS draft-eligible offensive tackles. He is also an excellent run-blocker, especially on the move, and his 85.3 run-blocking grade ranked 10th among all FBS tackles. NFL teams will also highly value that Crosby has considerable playing time at both tackle spots, as he played 909 snaps at right tackle in 2015 and 937 snaps at left tackle in 2017.) (3-29-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-10-underrated-west-coast-prospects
5 boom-or-bust prospects for the 2018 NFL Draft (Tyrell Crosby – OT – Oregon: Tyrell Crosby was a physical force at Oregon, relying on a size and strength advantage to overwhelm defenders at the point of attack. It worked to an impressive degree and he had two seasons with an overall PFF grade of 85.0 or better, and he ended last season at a career-best mark of 87.3. Crosby allowed just seven total pressures across 13 games and was a force in the run game. The problem is, for a player who relied so much on size and strength, he tended to absorb defenders rather than overpower them and drive them out of the hole, which may call into question his biggest strength at the next level. As good as his pass-blocking numbers were, they were skewed by the system at Oregon where the quick pass was king. On average, the ball came out of the quarterbacks hands in under 2.5 seconds at Oregon last year. At the Senior Bowl, Crosby did well against almost everybody, but struggled against Oklahoma’s Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, a smaller edge rusher who was able to get Crosby off balance and work under his typical leverage. The NFL isn’t stacked with smaller pass-rushers, but there are plenty of players that can target that weakness and exploit leverage mismatches to expose Crosby more as a pass blocker. Big tackles bring an inherent tension between the positives that size brings and the negative side effect that size typically has on movement skills and agility. Crosby’s tape and numbers are impressive, but there will be concern about his capability of replicating it at the next level.) (3-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-5-boom-or-bust-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft
Price injured; Hernandez, Nelson impressive in OL bench press (Simple physics gives shorter-armed athletes a significant advantage in the bench press, which is why interior linemen often put up better numbers in the bench press than offensive tackles, who typically have arms 34 inches or longer. That helps explain why Oklahoma tackle Orlando Brown Jr. — who has 35-inch arms — recorded a position-worst 14 repetitions Thursday, with fellow tackles such as Pittsburgh’s Brian O’Neill (22 reps, 34 inches), Western Michigan’s Chukwuma Okorafor (19, 34 1/2), Louisville’s Geron Christian (19, 35) and Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby (17, 35 1/4) not fairing that much better.) (3-1-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/01/price-injured-hernandez-nelson-impressive-in-ol-bench-press-2/
2018 NFL combine: What we learned from RB and OL weigh-ins and measurements (OL Winners - Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon. Crosby is a fluid mover with a nasty side on the field. Hitting the 35-inch mark for arm length is huge.) (2-28-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-what-we-learned-from-rb-and-ol-weigh-ins-and-measurements/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 1 News & Notes (Kolton Miller, another top tackle target, impressed from a measurement standpoint when surpassing the 6-foot-8 mark and weighing in at 309 pounds. The UCLA tackle shared the biggest hand measurements of the day at 10.75 inches with Geron Christian, Louisville, and Tyrell Crosby, Oregon.) (2-28-17): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-1-news-notes
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Crosby is a sure thing in a tackle class that doesn’t have many. He’s thick and powerful, and if he gets his hands on you, you’re in trouble. Crosby (6’5) isn’t as long as some of his brethren, and he’s a little chunky, but his quick feet and surprising athleticism help him overcome those shortcomings. His next OL coach will have to iron out the technique. He looks like a long-time starter on the right side. His ceiling is lower than many others on this list, but the floor is high enough to comfortably make a Round 2 investment.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
NFL draft 2018: Oregon Ducks OT Tyrell Crosby's stock rising (2-13-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_draft_2018_oregon_ducks_ot.html
Prospect of the day: Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby (2-12-18): https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2018/02/12/prospect-of-the-day-oregon-ot-tyrell-crosby/
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Senior Bowl (Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon: Sources told me that Crosby helped himself in Mobile. The height and lacking length of the 6-foot-4 Crosby worries some evaluators, but they feel his quick feet helped him to make up for it. They say Crosby doesn't have a good-looking body, but he could develop his physique in a NFL strength and conditioning program. Crosby has starting potential for the NFL with his quickness, footwork and athleticism. The Senior Bowl helped him to improve his standing with teams.) (1-30-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_21.php
Senior Bowl 2018: Marcus Davenport shines, Josh Allen stands out on Thursday (Rutgers outside linebacker Kemoko Turay exhibited hand use in Mobile he didn't show on film during his collegiate career. Turay beat steady Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby and Pittsburgh offensive tackle Brian O'Neill two times each using a swipe move and a surprisingly powerful bull rush. He's a speed-to-power rusher and had a fine week.) (1-26-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-marcus-davenport-shines-josh-allen-stands-out-on-thursday/Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Analysis: Though Crosby had his moments, I felt he struggled most of the week. He’s a quick blocker who competes and stays square, but he gets tall in his stance, cannot handle outside speed rushers or adjust to shut down inside moves.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Report: North Team (Team sources told WalterFootball.com prior to the practice that Pitt offensive tackle Brian O'Neill and Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby helped themselves this week. They both had some nice wins in the one-on-ones to finish off their week. O'Neill has some athleticism and needs to continue to get stronger for the pro game. The height and lacking length of the 6-foot-4 Crosby worries some evaluators, but they feel his quick feet helped him to make up for it. They say Crosby doesn't have a good-looking body, but if he can develop his body he has potential for the NFL.) (1-26-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice5.php
2018 Senior Bowl: Notes From The Film Room, Including Quarterback Charting (On the offensive line, Brian O’Neill showed he’s a bit further away as a prospect than initially hoped. I compared him to Lane Johnson before the week, but his lack of hand timing and overall comfort as a pass blocker, especially on the right side, is a work in progress. He still will likely be a first-round prospect. Oregon’s Tyrell Crosby looked good this week, and his only issue is protecting inside leverage as a pass protector. His inside foot (especially his right when working at left tackle) needs to improve, as multiple inside counter rushes beat him this week. Virginia Tech’s Wyatt Teller improved greatly over the week.) (1-26-18): www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-notes-from-the-film-room-includin
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Thurs: Better day for Crosby but still needs a lot of work. Sets up quickly in pass pro and does a nice job staying square. Competes. Was beaten by inside moves, outside speed and got too tall in his blocks.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from Wednesday's practices highlighted by Josh Allen's vintage performance (Okoronkwo again utilized his long reach and pass-rushing moves in one-on-one and team drills. He had a would-be sack of Baker Mayfield -- on a rep against Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby.) (1-25-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-wednesdays-practices-highlighted-by-josh-allens-vintage-performance/?irgwc=1
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (Oregon left tackle Tyrell Crosby stood out in the North team practice not only in run blocking drills but also one-on-one pass blocking drills.) (1-25-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
2018 Senior Bowl: Thursday Rumor Mill (Some team sources like Oregon offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby as well. However, they have concerns about Crosby's height at 6-foot-4. Teams like their offensive tackles to be an inch or two taller, but Crosby has impressed evaluators with his quick feet. In a draft weak at the offensive tackle, Crosby could end up being a second-day pick.) (1-25-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018rumors4.php
Video - Which Senior Bowl participants are most pro-ready? (Dan Jeremiah picks Tyrell Crosby) (1-24-18): http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=0ap3000000910316
North Practice Report (In yesterday’s report I mentioned how impressive Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby looked at the weigh-in and now it’s time to highlight his on-field exploits. Crosby had another very good practice, physically dominating opponents at times. I’ve already noted what a massive human being Crosby is and he plays just like you’d expect. Powerful. Physical. Aggressive. On at least one rep in 1-on-1’s I saw Crosby put his pass rusher directly into the dirt with authority. Even though Crosby worked at left tackle as a senior and has gotten reps on the blindside down here as well, I still question whether he has the feet and agility to stick there at the next level. Some feel he can and only time will tell who’s right, but I tend to believe his best fit will come on the right side. After beginning the year with a late round grade, Crosby now appears to be firmly in Day 2. There might be a ceiling on how far he can climb due to the aforementioned athletic limitations, but with so much uncertainty at the offensive tackle position this year all bets could be off. If nothing else he should have a shot close the gap on, if not leapfrog, some of the guys he’s competing for draft position with. For instance, Martinas Rankin of Mississippi St. and Chukwuma Okorafor of Western Michigan who missed this opportunity in Mobile due to injuries.) (1/24/18): www.draftcountdown.com/north-practice-report-1-24-18/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Struggled all day. Makes good use of blocking angles but looks and plays like a marginal athlete, often finding himself off balance, and he was beaten on several occasions throughout practice.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 1 recap (Oregon tackle Tyrell Crosby also looked strong in drills and didn’t lose a single one-on-one battle.) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-1-recap
North Practice Report (Finally, Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby wasn’t the tallest or heaviest and didn’t have the top hand size, arm length or wingspan. With that said, he fared well in every one of those categories and is just a very large human being. Crosby has a big opportunity to help his stock this week, with a number of guys he’s competing with for draft position not participating for one reason or another.) (1/23/18): www.draftcountdown.com/north-practice-report-1-23-18/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: I was impressed with Crosby's footwork and ability to get off the edge, but he bends at the waist, lacks balance and was all over the place.) (1-23-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl: 7 potential breakout players (Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon, #73, North: Quarterbacks get all of the attention, but the NFL is every bit as desperate for help among pass blockers. The physically imposing Crosby, who was voted the Morris Trophy winner by Pac-12 defensive linemen as the best blocker in the conference, did not allow a sack in 2017 after missing almost off of the previous season with a broken foot. Agile, powerful and tenacious, the 6-5, 320-pounder checks in as NFLDraftScout.com’s sixth-rated tackle and No. 58 prospect.) (1-22-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/22/senior-bowl-7-potential-breakout-players/
2018 Senior Bowl Week (Oregon T Tyrell Crosby - With other prospects backing out, Crosby has a real chance to secure his place in the tackle rankings. It might not always look great, but Crosby consistently gets the job done and has natural strength. He can force defenders to the ground and also sustain against bigger opponents. Again, he is not visually appealing, but Crosby seems athletic and has plenty of left tackle experience.) (1-22-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77476/351/2018-senior-bowl-week
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Offensive Line (Tyrell Crosby: This year’s offensive tackle class brings the depth that was lacking in last year’s draft, and Crosby is one of the best prospects headed for the Day 2 range. A physical, athletic blocker with ideal size and arm length, Crosby could climb a few spots on the draft board with a strong week in Mobile. This 6-5, 320-pounder has all the physical tools to be a quality starter at left tackle in the NFL, and this is a perfect chance for him to prove that.) (1-21-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/21/2018-senior-bowl-preview-offensive-line/
At Senior Bowl, Oregon's Tyrell Crosby preparing for turn in NFL's spotlight (1-20-18): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2018/01/oregons_tyrell_crosby_preparin.html
NFL draft prospects to watch in Saturday's bowl games (OT Tyrell Crosby: Kiper position rank: No. 7 OT, Scouts Inc. ranking: No. 44 overall, Crosby is from the Las Vegas area and returns home for his final game in a season in which he has not allowed a sack, according to Pro Football Focus. He was named first-team All-Pac-12 a year after missing all but two games because of injury.) (12-16-17): http://www.espn.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/139784/nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-saturday-bowl-games
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 1 (Oregon OT Tyrell Crosby: Crosby leads all tackle prospects this year in pass blocking efficiency, as he has yet to surrender a sack or a hit and is responsible for just three total pressures against. He also has a run blocking grade of 84.3, making him one of the most impressive tackle prospects in the country in terms of all-around production.) (12-15-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-going-bowling-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-week-1
Scouting the Las Vegas Bowl: Boise State vs. Oregon (Our first Day 3 prospect in the Las Vegas Bowl is offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby. Crosby has incredible size, standing at 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, which is paired with great length. I’m not completely convinced Crosby has the athleticism to stay at left tackle in the NFL, as his feet don’t always look to have the speed to keep up with NFL-level edge rushers. He uses his size well and is an aggressive blocker, when he’s able to gain hand placement.) (12-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-las-vegas-bowl-boise-state-vs-oregon
Oregon Senior T Tyrell Crosby was the highest rated pass-blocker in the Pac-12, according to Pro Football Focus. (12-11-17): https://twitter.com/PFF_College/status/940370689948778497
10 takeaways (and more) after Oregon Ducks' bounce-back win over Arizona (3. Tyrell Crosby's own awards candidacy rolls on - Crosby, the senior left tackle, is in contention to join select company as just the fifth Oregon offensive lineman to earn first-team all-America honors, joining Hroniss Grasu (2014), Jake Fisher (2014), Gary Zimmerman (1983) and Steve Barnett (1961-62). Crosby had not allowed a sack or hit on the quarterback this season entering Saturday and was part of a line that helped UO rush for 353 yards and gave up one sack. There's a video in the link of Crosby pushing an edge defender out of the way of Royce Freeman's running lane. Linemen are notorious for being forgotten, but Crosby also had one of the game's sneaky-good highlights when his block on a Herbert run wiped out three Wildcats defenders. Video inside) (11-19-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/11/takeaways_from_oregons_bounce-.html
Willie Taggart's experience with losses key to pulling Oregon Ducks out of skid (Offensive lineman Tyrell Crosby, who missed that game with an injury and watched from the sideline, said that game had a "snowball" feeling. Once things started going poorly, it just kept getting worse. This year, Crosby said they've done better at minimizing negative momentum.) (11-2-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/11/taggarts_experience_with_losse.html
Oregon Ducks drop 3rd in a row, falling to UCLA Bruins: Game at a glance (Injury report: Defensive end Jalen Jelks had trainers look at what appeared to be his shoulder early in the second half but later re-entered and played. Safety Tyree Robinson was helped off the field in the third quarter after trainers looked at his right knee but later returned to play, too. Starting right guard Jake Pisarcik and running back Tony Brooks-James did not travel, due to concussions suffered one week ago. Left tackle Tyrell Crosby, who also suffered a concussion against Stanford, made the trip and started.) (10-21-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/10/oregon_ducks_football_ucla_bru.html
Left tackle Tyrell Crosby, right guard Jake Pisarcik and running back Tony Brooks-James are still going through concussion protocol after being injured against Stanford. (10-18-17): http://registerguard.com/rg/sports/football/36063105-69/oregon-ducks-coach-willie-taggart-says-qb-braxton-burmeister-will-start-at-ucla.html.csp
Nice guy off the field, mess with Oregon's Tyrell Crosby on it at your own peril (9-28-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/09/you_dont_want_to_mess_with_nic.html
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 4 (Tyrell Crosby: Tyrell Crosby’s 2016 season was cut short with a Week 3 foot injury but he has been a highly effective both as a run blocker and a pass protector in 2017 showing that his injury is behind him. Crosby has yet to surrender a sack or hit and has only yielded one pressure on his 137 pass-blocking snaps. Crosby’s pass blocking efficiency rating of 99.4 ranks No. 3 among all FBS tackles with at least 100 pass blocking snaps. Crosby has been equally impressive as a run blocker in 2017 and his 89.6 run blocking grade ranks No. 5 among all FBS offensive tackles.) (9-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-4
Oregon Ducks' Tyrell Crosby looking forward to facing Nebraska, one year after season-ending injury (9-5-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/09/oregons_tyrell_crosby_looking.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)