Sunday, April 30, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 4-30-23

Articles:

5 things to know about Detroit Lions seventh-round pick Antoine Green:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-seventh-round-pick-antoine-green.html

Lions aren’t concerned about Jameson Williams after 6-game suspension for gambling:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/lions-arent-concerned-about-jameson-williams-after-6-game-suspension-for-gambling.html

Lions’ Brad Holmes calls D’Andre Swift trade to Eagles a ‘win-win’ for everyone:  https://www.mlive.com/sports/2023/04/lions-brad-holmes-calls-dandre-swift-trade-to-eagles-a-win-win-for-everyone.html




Big takeaways from the NFL draft: A historic QB class, the rebuilt AFC South and new GMs thriving (Return of the running back - It turns out some NFL teams do think there's value to drafting a running back in the first round. A year after no running backs were selected in the first round, two were taken in the first half of the first round, as Texas' Bijan Robinson went No. 8 overall to the Atlanta Falcons, and Alabama's Jahmyr Gibbs followed shortly after at No. 12 to the Lions. It marked the first time that two running backs were selected in the top 12 since Christian McCaffrey and Leonard Fournette in 2017. Meanwhile, the first wide receiver didn't come off the board until four in a row were taken from Nos. 20 to 23.  Though Robinson had only 19 receptions for 314 yards and two touchdowns to 1,580 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns last season, Atlanta coach Arthur Smith pointed to Robinson's versatility in explaining the decision to draft him.  "His background, playing in the slot, was another big piece of it," Smith told local media. "That's intriguing. We feel he is an explosive weapon, a home run hitter however he gets the football in his hands."  Likewise, Gibbs' versatility was behind the Lions' decision to draft him at No. 12 after acquiring the pick from the Cardinals in a package that also included the No. 34 overall pick in exchange for the sixth overall pick. ESPN's Draft Predictor gave more than a 99% chance that Gibbs would be on the board for the Lions' No. 18 pick, but the organization made the unexpected decision to take him at No. 12.  "He's bringing a value also in the passing game that's a large, large value," Lions running backs coach Scottie Montgomery said. "Then you add that to what he can do from a dynamic standpoint and in the run game, and at the end of the day, it is about value. It's one of those situations where you looked at it and as [GM] Brad [Holmes] and [coach] Dan [Campbell] looked at it, there was a value that they saw in this young man. There was a value that they saw in him, and we made the decision to go get him.  "That value is on the player and what it can mean for our team. We placed a high value on what he could do for our team from an explosive standpoint, creating more 'explosives,' but not being limited to creating those explosives in the running game."  Both Robinson and Gibbs were surprise picks by their organizations because neither team was perceived as having a glaring need at the position. While the Falcons rushed for 2,718 yards in 2022 -- the second most in franchise history -- the Lions entered the NFL draft with a running back tandem of 2020 third-round pick D'Andre Swift and David Montgomery, who signed a three-year deal in the offseason. That didn't stop either organization from pulling maverick moves and drafting a seemingly devalued position. The Lions dealt Swift to the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday to signal their new backfield direction.  "It's a personal opinion," Smith said of his choice of Robinson. "I think he is a valuable football player. The impact you can have on your team, that's the value. The value, the impact he makes, does he help you win games? I mean, there are a lot of guys that can stuff the stat sheet. You can have a lot of receptions, and you are playing a lot of two-minute and getting your teeth kicked in. You can have a great year. You can have 90-something catches and feel really great, but what was your impact on winning? ... The impact he has on winning is what we're really fired up about."):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2023/story/_/id/36321746/nfl-draft-2023-takeaways-learned-quarterbacks-georgia-draft-picks-afc-south-new-gms

NFC North draft takeaways: Picks and notes on Bears, Lions, Packers, Vikings (One thing is clear: the Lions don't care about your draft board. And if you can forget exactly where these players were taken, especially in the first round, Detroit's draft in totality looks pretty darn good. Gibbs figures to be a factor in both the run and receiving game for Detroit. He's a playmaker from a fantastic program, which general manager Brad Holmes stressed in his press conference on Thursday evening. Even Campbell seems to fit the bill perfectly in Detroit, classified as a tough, smart player by a former teammate to FOX Sports. At his size (6-foot-5, 250 pounds), he also figures to be part of the pass rush, coming up the middle on occasional blitz packages.  The Lions' second-round picks conformed more with conventional boards, as they took Iowa TE Sam LaPorta and DB Brian Branch out of Alabama. They replaced T.J. Hockenson, who was traded to the Vikings last season, with another Hawkeye tight end. Branch should be an excellent (and versatile) addition to the Lions' defense. He's a safety who can also play slot corner, allowing them to use him in a variety of packages.  Taking quarterback Hendon Hooker in the third round was another surprise after the Lions addressed obvious needs in the second. Hooker is on track to be able to participate in training camp, according to a doctor's note on Wednesday, when the QB was able to start dropping back and throw for the first time. Regardless, the Lions still have Jared Goff, which will allow Hooker to sit for at least one year. At worst, Detroit now has a viable backup. At best, they now have their quarterback of the future.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfc-north-draft-takeaways-picks-and-notes-on-bears-lions-packers-vikings

Draft Debrief: Winners and losers from all three days (Brad Holmes' confidence: The Lions GM cares not for your opinion on positional value. Detroit acted like the fantasy football manager on tilt after the Seahawks took Witherspoon fifth overall, getting marginal value for the move back from No. 6 to No. 12 before taking pass-catching Alabama back Jahmyr Gibbs. I like Gibbs. Who doesn't like a big-play back? But I'm not convinced the backfield of David Montgomery and Gibbs is appreciably different than last year's duo of Jamaal Williams (who left in free agency) and D'Andre Swift (who was traded to the Eagles on Saturday).  The rest of the Lions' draft was similarly surprising, but the return was better. Off-ball linebacker Jack Campbell (picked 18th overall) pushes Hard Knocks star Malcolm Rodriguez down the depth chart, unfortunately, but adds a core piece at a weak position. I loved the value of safety/slot cornerback Brian Branch in the second round (No. 45 overall). Sam LaPorta was my favorite value tight end in this class, and the Lions agreed, taking him 34th overall, one spot before Notre Dame's Michael Mayer.   At age 25, Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker, taken in the third round, is somehow only three years younger than Jared Goff, who has logged 100 career starts. Still, I like the team having a younger option to develop in case it turns out Goff peaked with last year's performance. Any team that has six picks in the first three rounds should look better after the draft, but the Lions got those picks due to Holmes' ingenuity. He showed this weekend he sees things differently than most evaluators, and it's hard not to give Holmes the benefit of the doubt after the last two years.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-debrief-afc-south-steelers-geno-smith-up-veteran-trade-market-rum

The 15 worst value picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, from Lions' Jahmyr Gibbs to 49ers' Jake Moody (Lions: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
Round 1, Pick 12 - Gibbs was one of the first picks in the 2023 NFL Draft that truly surprised those watching. Many believed that the Alabama running back would be selected late on the first day of the draft. Instead, he worked his way into the top 12 after the Lions traded down from the sixth selection to the 12th to select him.  There's no denying that Gibbs has talent. He racked up 1,370 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns on 195 touches in his lone season at Alabama and was the offense's second-best player behind quarterback Bryce Young. He will give the Lions a workhorse back who has skills akin to those of Alvin Kamara.  Even still, Gibbs was ranked 29th overall on the NFL Mock Draft Database's consensus big board. As such, it was probably a little early for Gibbs, especially considering the lack of position value in selecting a Round 1 running back.  That said, it's worth noting that NFL teams were much higher on Gibbs than most media analysts. They viewed the Alabama as one of the few blue-chip players in a top-light 2023 NFL Draft class, so while Bijan Robinson got most of the love, teams had a healthy respect for Gibbs.  In fact, WalterFootball.com's Charlie Campbell reports that the Jets would have considered Gibbs with their pick at 15 if he was still on the board. That's despite having second-year back Breece Hall on the roster. So, while Gibbs may look like a big-time reach to some, it may have only been a minor one.  Nonetheless, the Lions have gotten plenty of criticism for spending an early pick on a non-Robinson running back. That makes Gibbs a poor value pick even though he could certainly pan out at the NFL level.  Lions: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky
Round 3, Pick 96 - I swear I'm not picking on the Lions here; their board just happens to shake out a lost differently than the consensus.  Martin checked in at No. 235 on the consensus big board and barely made the cut among the top 200 prospects on Sporting News' big board at 186. Nonetheless, the Lions traded into the back end of the third round to grab the defensive tackle after he averaged 31 tackles and two sacks per season while at Western Kentucky.  Martin has a 6-5, 337-pound frame, so he should be a run-stuffing nose tackle at the next level. Still, it's hard to understand exactly why Detroit felt the need to trade up for him.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-worst-value-picks-lions-49ers-jake-moody/vv6j6ooj883e5igzbwopmqui

NFL Draft winners & losers 2023: Eagles, Steelers, Bengals find value everywhere; 49ers, Jets leave questions (Stetson Bennett and Hendon Hooker - Hooker and Bennett squared off in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown on Nov. 5, 2022. Given their landing spots, they might end up in a head-to-head start at the next level in the future. The Lions selected Hooker in the third round, and the Tennessee quarterback will have a watch-and-learn year behind Jared Goff while continuing to rehab a torn ACL. Hooker will turn 26 next season, but he is surrounded by up-and-coming talent in Detroit. Bennett landed with the Los Angeles Rams in the fourth round, and he will be able to learn from former Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford. Bennett should fit in Sean McVay's offense, especially in multiple tight end looks. That experience will pay off. Losers - Jared Goff and Ryan Tannehill:  How much are these veteran quarterbacks feeling to take their current teams to the NFL playoffs in 2023?   Goff is coming off a great season for the Lions in which he passed for 4,438 yards, 29 TDs and seven interceptions. The Lions nearly made the postseason as a feel-good story last season. In 2023, the postseason will be expected – especially with Hooker as a backup. The Lions added first-round Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs and third-round Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta to the mix in support.  Tannehill has one year left with the Titans, and this feels like the last dance with Willis and Levis both on board for the 2023 season. Tannehill was 6-6 as a starter last season, and he had a 49.3 QBR – his lowest since coming over from Miami.   Will either of these quarterbacks be with their team in 2024? That is a real question for two playoff hopefuls that will make training camp that much more interesting.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/%E2%80%8Bnfl-draft-winners-losers-2023/qc9bnyih7c3i5j8ogszdrtvg

Ranking every NFL team's 2023 draft class from 32 (sorry, 49ers) to 1 (whoa, Colts) (29.  Detroit Lions: The Lions had a draft where they took multiple second-rounders … everywhere. Even in the first round. I don’t know what went through Brad Holmes’ mind to start this class, whether he was smelling the Honolulu Blue roses or whatever, but Gibbs, Campbell, and LaPorta are all drastic reaches. Positional value is overrated in some respects, but it’s still a vital way to build a team. You can’t abandon the thought process simply because you think your team is on the brink of greatness.  Gibbs might be a good tailback, but the Lions needed a stud cornerback more. Campbell might be a good linebacker, but the Lions needed a receiver more. And so on and so forth. This was an overzealous Lions draft and I can’t but feel it set back the NFC North favorites. — RZ):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-class-rankings-best-worst-49ers-cowboys-steelers-colts

2023 NFL Draft Winners and Losers: Consensus Big Board High on Browns, Eagles, and More (Losers - Detroit Lions:  The Lions had some of the best picks in the draft with Brian Branch and Hendon Hooker, but it doesn’t make up for the enormous reach for Jahmyr Gibbs at a position with low value and without much need. Brodric Martin in the third round was almost as bad — he ranked 260th — while Colby Sorsdal wasn’t even in the top 300 at 384th. Both Iowa prospects — Jack Campbell and Sam LaPorta — were reaches of at least 20 ranks as well.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-consensus-big-board-scores-winners-and-losers/

My favorite pick by each NFL team in the 2023 NFL draft (Detroit Lions: DB Brian Branch - One of Detroit’s second-round picks, Branch offers supreme versatility and high-end skills to a revamped Lions secondary. The idea of him learning the ropes from a similar player like C.J. Gardner-Johnson is very appealing.):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/favorite-pick-selection-each-nfl-team-in-the-2023-nfl-draft/

The 10 best undrafted free agents after the 2023 NFL Draft (8
S Brandon Joseph - Who is he? Another guy with Day 2 potential who slid down draft boards thanks to missed tackles.):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-10-best-undrafted-free-agents-2023-eli-ricks-andre-carter

2023 NFL Draft: The best undrafted players in the 2023 class (Mohamed Ibrahim, RB, Minnesota):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-best-undrafted-players-in-the-2023-class/

Eagles’ interest in D’Andre Swift was sparked when they saw him in Week One of 2022:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/29/eagles-interest-in-dandre-swift-was-sparked-when-they-saw-him-in-week-one-of-2022/

Grades:


Video:

Posted by LionsFan at 4:16 AM 0 comments

Saturday, April 29, 2023

WR Antoine Green Analysis and Grades

ESPN Tracker (Antoine Green - 15
POS RK, 118
OVR RK, 65
GRADE. Pre-Draft Analysis - Green ran well at the combine and appears even faster on tape. He separates late, tracks the ball well and doesn't blink with safeties closing in on him. He flashes but is not as much of a threat after the catch and is not a polished route runner at this point. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/teams/_/name/det/detroit-lions

NFL.com Brooks Analysis (Antoine Green
North Carolina · WR - Green looks more like an athlete than a polished route runner, and he'll need a crash course on NFL route trees, but he's had pretty good production and possesses good length and burst.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-3-rounds-6-7

ESPN Analysis (Round 7, No. 219: Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina - My take: The Lions add depth to a receiving corps that seemed well-rounded earlier this offseason before taking a hit with recent suspensions to 2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams and Stanley Berryhill, who both will miss six games for violating the NFL's gambling policy after an investigation by the league. Detroit also released wide receiver Quintez Cephus for betting on NFL games, so they’ve added a weapon with Green, who averaged 17.1 air yards per target last year, which was the fourth highest in the FBS and gives the Lions a deep vertical threat to stretch the field until Williams is cleared to return.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/39077/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2023-analysis-for-every-selection

PFF ((R7) 219 DETROIT LIONS (VIA PHI): WR ANTOINE GREEN, NORTH CAROLINA (Pick Grade: Average):  Green brings size at 6-foot-2 and earned a 75.1 receiving grade in 2022 with 2.34 yards per route run. Detroit is smart to continue to add depth at receiver, and Green’s 18.1-yard average depth of target could make him a good student for veteran Marvin Jones Jr. to take under his wing as the downfield contested catch option in Detroit.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-grades-all-day-3-picks

Grades:

CBS (219. Lions: Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina - Grade: A.  Draft crush of mine. Tall, decently filled out, explosive YAC specialist on the outside who showcased plus ball-tracking skill as a leaper down the field. Has all the talent and nuance to be a more productive pro than he was in college.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-day-2-grades-tracker-analysis-and-projections-for-all-third-round-picks-nfl-draft-order/

PFN (Round 7, Pick 219: Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina - It made sense for the Lions to draft at least one wide receiver in the 2023 NFL Draft. They settled on North Carolina WR Antoine Green in Round 7.  Green specializes as a vertical threat. He’s 6’2”, 200 pounds, with over 32” arms, and ran a 4.47 at the Combine. Green’s long-strider explosiveness is valuable, but at the Shrine Bowl, he flashed an even more complete skill set. He has the twitch to separate and off-set DBs, and he’s a very instinctive finisher.  Grade: A-):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades-2023/

Draft grade for Detroit Lions selection of WR Antoine Green (Grade: B):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/draft-grade-for-detroit-lions-selection-of-wr-antoine-green/

Walter football (Detroit Lions: Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina - B- Grade - Antoine Green was an inconsistent player at North Carolina. He has some deep speed ability, but he'll need to be a more consistent player to make it in the pros.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades.php












Posted by LionsFan at 6:29 PM 0 comments

Lions Draft Pick WR Antoine Green

Scouting Reports:

North Carolina:  https://goheels.com/sports/football/roster/antoine-green/23330






2023 NFL Draft Player Profiles: North Carolina WR Antoine Green:  https://steelersdepot.com/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-player-profiles-north-carolina-wr-antoine-green/

Articles:

Pete Prisco's 2023 NFL Draft Better-Than Team (Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina:  Green is the "other" receiver at North Carolina, with Josh Downs a likely second-round pick. But there is a lot to like about Green. He has good size at 6-foot-2 and 198 pounds to go along with the deep speed for a longer receiver, getting timed at 4.44 in the 40. Green is a long strider who can get down the field in a hurry. He averaged 18.6 yards on his 43 catches last season after averaging 19.1 yards per catch the previous season. He is far from a polished receiver, and there are drops. But he has the raw ability to be a guy who can come in and compete for a fourth- or fifth-receiver spot as a rookie. If he gets with the right receiver coach, one who can improve his footwork, he could develop into a deep threat who could also do something more on shorter routes. That's his problem now: his inability to be more than just a one-trick pony. But it's hard to ignore that size-speed combination. ) (4-27-28):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/better-than-team-for-2023-nfl-draft-here-are-the-prospects-pete-prisco-likes-more-than-scouts-do/

North Carolina 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Reports Include Noah Taylor, Antoine Green (Antoine Green, WR - Strengths: Dependable possession receiver with reliable hands. Displays good route discipline, tracks the pass in the air, and competes to come away with the difficult grab. Knows where he is on the field, effectively uses the sidelines, and plays with outstanding body control.  Sells routes, uses his hands to separate from defenders, and lays out or extends for the difficult catch. Quickly releases off the line of scrimmage, immediately gets to top speed, and plays faster than his 40 time. Extends and snatches the ball out of the air.  Weaknesses: Tends to gather himself into routes and slows getting into breaks. Loses out in battles. Struggles downfield and isn’t a vertical threat.  Overall: Green is a solid pass catcher with athletic limitations as well as small hands. He has enough ability to make a roster that keeps six receivers.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/north-carolina-2023-nfl-draft-scouting-reports/

NFL Combine results: 12 standouts from the wide receiver group (Antione Green, North Carolina, 6-foot-2, 199 4.48 (40), 33.5’ (VJ), 10-foot-3 (BJ), 6.99 (3C)):  Green did not actually hit any of the previously identified benchmarks—though he was close in a few—but after it was reported that he met the Lions at the Combine, I made a point to keep looking for him. In the gauntlet, he wavered off the line too much for my liking indicating possible balance concerns, but he did attack the ball in the air, which was promising. He’s a developmental late Day 3 prospect for me, but I’ll be going back to watch tape on him.) (3-5-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/5/23624920/2023-nfl-combine-results-12-standouts-wide-receiver-prospects

Lions meet with UNC wideout Antoine Green at the NFL Scouting Combine (3-3-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/03/lions-nfl-combine-draft-prospect-meeting-with-antoine-green-unc/

Tuesday 2023 Shrine Bowl East Team Practice Report: Antoine Green, John Ojukwu Finish Strong (Tuesday’s Shrine Bowl Practice Report Headlined by John Ojukwu and Antoine Green - It was the final practice of Shrine Bowl week, and it didn’t disappoint — at least, not for a few opportunistic prospects. The last practice before the game is often more of a walkthrough, and such was the case today. The tempo was a little slower. There was an alleviated sense of pressure, as players worked to preserve themselves ahead of the main event. But nonetheless, several prospects took advantage of their chance to end on a high note.  The top performers of the day were both rostered on the offensive side of the ball. Many players had their bright moments, but Boise State offensive tackle John Ojukwu and North Carolina wide receiver Antoine Green were both truly phenomenal in the week’s final action.  What’s exciting about Ojukwu and Green ending on a high note is that both prospects have the natural tools. Ojukwu is an athletic 6’5 1/2″, 317-pound tackle with 34 3/8″ arms, 10 5/8″ hands, and a wingspan over seven feet. Green, meanwhile, is an explosive long-strider at 6’2″, 201 pounds, with arms nearly 33″ long.  Ojukwu, in particular, has dominating size. And it’s not hyperbole to say he was dominant on Tuesday. He kicked off the day with a brutal pancake in 1-on-1 run-blocking drills, swallowing up his man against the turf. Later in 1-on-1s, he effortlessly directed Ochaun Mathis outside the pocket with smooth footwork, good knee bend, and active hands.  Synergy was a common theme for Ojukwu in pass protection, which is very encouraging given that he struggled with balance earlier in the week. In team drills, he locked up multiple rushers with fast, steady feet and independent hands, including Derek Parish — a smaller, faster type of rusher that Ojukwu can struggle to lower his pads for.  It’s only one practice, and there weren’t as many reps to go around today. But every time Ojukwu came onto the field, he did something great. With his size, if he can continue to maintain leverage, keep his technique sound, and maximize his length with hand usage, he can be a very good player.  Just like Ojukwu, Green was opportunistic, both in 1-on-1s and team drills. He kicked off the day on an extremely strong note, beating the arguable East Team MVP Kei’Trel Clark on an end-zone fade. Green set up the route with smooth throttle control, then exploded to the corner and made a fantastic focus catch with Clark crowding him in recovery.  Later in the practice, Green won again in team drills, this time against Cincinnati’s Arquon Bush. Green’s explosive athleticism and length proved to be a deadly combination for opposing cornerbacks, but he’s very good at using pace adjustments to make the best use of space.  Green flashed all week, but Tuesday was his most complete performance yet. He won’t go nearly as high as his teammate Josh Downs in the 2023 NFL Draft, but there’s a good chance he upped his stock a fair amount in Las Vegas.) (1-31-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tuesday-2023-shrine-bowl-east-team-practice-report-antoine-green-john-ojukwu-finish-strong/

2022 ACC Championship Game: Top NFL Draft Prospects To Watch Include Bryan Bresee, Josh Downs (WR Antoine Green - The sheer presence of Downs helps open up the UNC passing attack, but he also has a very capable complement in senior WR Antoine Green. Green is embarking on a career season, with 38 catches for 745 yards and seven touchdowns — averaging almost 20 yards per catch.  At 6’2″, 200 pounds, Green brings the size and length that Downs lacks, but he also has underrated foot speed and burst. He uses those traits, along with his smooth catching instincts, to be a high-level big-play threat.) (12-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-acc-championship-game-top-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-include-bryan-bresee-josh-downs/

Antoine Green available only in emergency situation due to a lower body injury (12-28-23):  https://tarheelswire.usatoday.com/2022/12/28/antoine-green-available-only-in-emergency-situation/

College Football Week 9: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK - Offense.  WR: Antoine Green, North Carolina Tar Heels) (10-31-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-9-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

Week 9 College Football Team of the Week: J.T. Tuimoloau Flashes Brilliance for Ohio State (Wide Receiver: Antoine Green, North Carolina - Every top quarterback needs a top receiver and it appears that Maye has two top receivers in Antoine Green and Josh Downs. Green utilized all 6’2″ of his frame very well in this outing, dominating the catch point and using strong, late hands on other occasions.  Green finished with 10 receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns, seemingly open on every play. Since returning to the lineup in late September, Green now has three 100-yard games and has recorded 23 receptions, 564 yards, and six touchdowns in just five games.) (10-30-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-week-9-2022/

UNC WR Antoine Green Suffers Collar Bone Injury in Scrimmage, Out 6-10 Weeks (8-6-22):  https://chapelboro.com/sports/unc-wr-antoine-green-suffers-injury-in-scrimmage-out-6-10-weeks

Top 10 returning players at North Carolina are led by WR Josh Downs (7. Antoine Green, WR:  The bigger target for the UNC passing attack, Antoine Green finally had his moment last season. Green finished with 612 yards and five touchdowns as the 6’2″, 207-pounder had a terrific complementary season to Downs. Handling the business as a No. 1 wide receiver on the outside, Green bodies smaller defensive backs and has great skills at the catch point.) (July 29, 2022):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-returning-north-carolina-football-players-2022/

North Carolina’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Josh Downs and Storm Duck (Antoine Green, WR - North Carolina’s downfield threat, Antoine Green is back for his fifth season in Carolina Blue. Green is a master at the catch point and understands how to use his size to his advantage over smaller defensive backs. Honing his craft after the catch will be key, but he already averages nearly two first downs per reception over his career.) (May 27, 2022):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-north-carolina-draft-prospects/

Posted by LionsFan at 5:41 PM 0 comments

OT Colby Sorsdal Analysis and Grades

ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Sorsdal is a team captain and five-year starter with adequate length and good range for an offensive tackle. He didn't test well at his Pro Day and maybe a better fit at guard, but he moves well on tape. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/teams/_/name/det/detroit-lions

NFL.com Brooks Analysis (Colby Sorsdal
William & Mary · OT:  This is the first player picked in the 2023 NFL Draft I didn't at least watch one game's worth of tape on. NFL Network colleague Lance Zierlein likes Sorsdal's fit as a guard after playing mostly tackle for the Tribe, although he's not massive or powerful.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-3-rounds-6-7

ESPN Analysis (Round 5, No. 152: Colby Sorsdal, OT, William & Mary - My take: Detroit adds depth to its offensive line with a 6-foot-6, 301-pound tackle who had 46 career starts at William & Mary. Sorsdal, 23, is another under-the-radar prospect who played right tackle as a senior. He wasn’t invited to the NFL combine but participated in the 2023 East-West Shrine Bowl. The Lions continue to invest in protection for Goff as Sorsdal didn’t allow any sacks this past season and is viewed as a strong run-blocker.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/39077/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2023-analysis-for-every-selection

PFF ((R5) 152 DETROIT LIONS: T COLBY SORSDAL, WILLIAM & MARY (Pick Grade: Below Average):   Sorsdal wasn’t on either the PFF big board or the consensus big board. He doesn’t have high-end measurables but is coming off comfortably his best college season in 2022 for William and Mary, earning a 91.3 PFF run-blocking grade.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-grades-all-day-3-picks

Grades:

PFN (Round 5, Pick 152: Colby Sorsdal, OL, William & Mary - On Day 3, shoring up the offensive line with versatile, high-upside players isn’t a bad mode of operation. Colby Sorsdal has great functional athleticism at 6’5”, 304 pounds, with 33” arms. He has the foot speed and knee bend to stay at tackle, but his range as a blocker also translates well at guard, where he can torque opponents on contact.  Grade: B+):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/overall-nfl-draft-grades-2023/

Instant grade for the Detroit Lions selection of OL Colby Sorsdal (Grade: B+): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/detroit-lions-colby-sorsdal-draft-grade/

Walter football (Detroit Lions: Colby Sorsdal, OT, William & Mary - C+ Grade.  This is a bit early for Colby Sorsdal, whom I never had in my mocks. However, Sorsdal was a solid right tackle and a team captain. He could provide good depth on the offensive line.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades.php

CBS (152. Lions: Colby Sorsdal, Ol, William & Mary - Grade: C.  College OT who will probably bump inside to guard at the next level. Zone-blocking type athlete. Has to get much stronger and improve his grip strength. Seems a little early. ):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-day-2-grades-tracker-analysis-and-projections-for-all-third-round-picks-nfl-draft-order/










Posted by LionsFan at 4:52 PM 0 comments

Evening Lions Links for Saturday 4-29-23

Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: How Holmes feels about 2023 draft class, Swift trade & more:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-how-holmes-feels-about-2023-draft-class-swift-trade-more

A CLOSER LOOK: Wide receiver Antoine Green:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-wide-receiver-antoine-green

Lions draft wide receiver Antoine Green: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-wide-receiver-antoine-green


Lions draft offensive lineman Colby Sorsdal:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-draft-offensive-lineman-colby-sorsdal


5 things to know about Detroit Lions fifth-round pick Colby Sorsdal:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-fifth-round-pick-colby-sorsdal.html

2023 NFL draft: Detroit Lions pick North Carolina WR Antoine Green in Round 7:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-pick-north-carolina-wr-antoine-green-in-round-7.html

5 things to know about Detroit Lions fifth-round pick Colby Sorsdal:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-fifth-round-pick-colby-sorsdal.html

‘I think I’ve got hives’: William & Mary OL tickled to be drafted by Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/i-think-ive-got-hives-william-mary-ol-tickled-to-be-taken-by-lions.html

2023 NFL draft: Detroit Lions pick William & Mary OL Colby Sorsdal in fifth round:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-pick-william-mary-ot-colby-sorsdal-in-fifth-round.html

Report: Detroit Lions trade RB D’Andre Swift to Eagles for draft compensation:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/report-detroit-lions-trade-rb-dandre-swift-to-eagles-for-draft-compensation.html





Lions give undrafted RB Mohamed Ibrahim a big signing bonus:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/lions-udfa-mohamed-ibrahim-signing-bonus/



Brodric Martin shores up Detroit’s interior defensive line depth:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/brodric-martin-lions-draft-depth-chart-fit/


Brad Holmes: Trading D'Andre Swift 'Win-Win For All Parties Involved':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/trading-swift-win-win-for-all-parties-involved


Lions Add WR Antoine Green with Pick No. 219:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-draft-antoine-greene

Lions Select OT Colby Sorsdal with Pick No. 152:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-select-colby-sorsdal










Lions were 'jacked' to land Brian Branch, a potential star at a discount:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/detroit-lions-jacked-to-draft-potential-star-brian-branch



The 17 best value picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, including Will Levis, Michael Mayer & Jalin HyattLions: Brian Branch, DB, Alabama - Round 2, Pick 45.  The Lions made some head-scratching picks in the first round, and even their decision to take Sam LaPorta over Michael Mayer was questionable.  That said, the team got a steal in Brian Branch with the 45th pick. He has positional versatility and will be able to play safety and slot corner, much like free-agent acquisition C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Branch is also an excellent tackler and posted 90 tackles, 14 TFL, three sacks and two interceptions during his final year at Alabama.  Many had Branch projected as a first-round pick. He was the 17th-ranked player on SN's big board and 24th on the consensus big board, so Detroit got him at least 20 picks after he should have been chosen. He should fit well into Aaron Glenn's defense and could ultimately be the top player Detroit selected in this year's draft.  Lions: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee - Round 3, Pick 68.  Levis wasn't the only Day 2 value pick at quarterback. Hooker was another player that received some consideration as first-round buzz and was actually favored to be selected late in the round.  Instead, he lasted until the early stages of the third round before the Lions snapped him up. That was a smart move for Detroit, who needed a developmental quarterback behind Jared Goff and can afford to let Hooker recover from the torn ACL he suffered at the end of the 2022 college season.  Hooker has good mobility and accuracy, as he threw for 27 touchdowns and just two interceptions in his final year at Tennessee. He could eventually become a starter as he learns how to thrive in a pro-style system.  Considering that Hooker held a rank of 33 on the consensus big board, this was another strong value pick by the Lions.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-best-value-picks-will-levis-michael-mayer-jalin-hyatt/glcizyzh1ewoigaod7so35sg

Falcons first-rounder Bijan Robinson thinks how RBs are 'being valued now' is headed in right direction:  https://www.nfl.com/news/falcons-first-rounder-bijan-robinson-thinks-how-rbs-are-being-valued-now-is-head

Ranking all 31 Round 1 picks: Eagles, Seahawks impress (26. Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions, RB, No. 12):  Did the Lions panic here, thinking Gibbs wasn't going to be available for their second pick at No. 18? An explosive athlete who's an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield, Gibbs will be an excellent asset in Detroit. The Lions are also paying David Montgomery a lot of money and currently have D'Andre Swift. This certainly went against the grain.  31. Jack Campbell (Lions, LB, No. 18):  The Lions could have used help at linebacker, but did they really need to pick Campbell at No. 18? Campbell is excellent in awareness against the pass and his athleticism trumps inconsistently at tackling, yet this pick felt like a reach. He immediately starts at the MIKE in Detroit.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-ranking-all-31-first-round-picks-as-eagles-steelers-rewarded-for-trades-up-seahawks-impress/

Biggest steals of NFL Draft: Eagles load up on defense (Brian Branch to Lions (Draft selection: No. 45 overall):  Branch is another player that had first-round buzz throughout the pre-draft process, but found himself falling to Day 2. While that may not have been what Branch had hoped for, it's a tremendous find for the Lions, who were able to snag him off the board at No. 45 overall. The Alabama product was CBS Sports' No. 1-ranked safety prospect and a top-20 player in this class. CBS Sports draft analyst Chris Trapasso, who gave this selection an "A" grade, called Branch the "best tacking defensive back I've ever scouted." The combination of Branch in a secondary with C.J. Gardner-Johnson will be a fascinating pairing in 2023.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-joey-porter-jr-to-steelers-eagles-taking-nolan-smith-among-five-biggest-steals/

Biggest reaches from the 2023 NFL Draft (Jahmyr Gibbs to Lions (Draft selection: No. 12 overall):  No one is questioning Gibbs' talent. He is CBS Sports' No. 14-ranked prospect overall and the No. 2 running back in this class behind Bijan Robinson. This is more about positional value and whether or not you believe a running back should be taken in the top half of the first round in today's NFL. Detroit decided to turn its head to the line of thinking and took the Alabama back with the No. 12 overall pick. CBS Sports NFL Draft Analyst Ryan Wilson didn't even have Gibbs as a first-rounder in his final mock draft and was given a "D" grade by CBS Sports' Pete Prisco precisely for the reasoning we illustrated. There were talented players on the board who play positions much harder to identify later in the draft, so this was a puzzling decision here by the Lions even if Gibbs is as talented as they come. Jack Campbell to Lions (Draft selection: No. 18 overall):  Feels like I'm picking on the Lions here a bit, but their first-round decisions were a bit head-scratching (I did like their Day 2 moves!). Similar to the Gibbs selection, taking an off-ball linebacker at No. 18 felt like more of a luxury pick and could have found comparable players to Campbell on Day 2. He was the No. 2-ranked linebacker in this class and the No. 40 prospect overall. CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson also didn't have Campbell as a first-rounder in his final mock draft. While you can commend Detroit for identifying the guys it liked and going after them, the Lions probably could have moved back down the board, gained value and still came away with the player.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-order-grades-tracker-analysis-and-projections-for-all-sixth-round-picks-nfl-draft-order/

2023 NFL Draft: Seven teams that changed the most (Detroit Lions (Most notable picks: QB Hendon Hooker, RB Jahmyr Gibbs, TE Sam LaPorta, LB Jack Campbell, S Brian Branch):  They didn't draft in a conventional way, prioritizing devalued positions in Round 1 before halting Hooker's slide in the third. The end results, however, are actually quite appealing (and transformative). Hooker gives Detroit a low-risk, high-reward insurance plan behind Jared Goff. Gibbs adds electricity to a backfield now without D'Andre Swift. LaPorta restores faith in the tight end spot after T.J. Hockenson's 2022 trade. And both Campbell and Branch are tough, instinctive bonuses for an improving "D."):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-draft-eagles-lions-among-seven-teams-that-changed-the-most-during-the-draft/

QB Power Rankings 2023: Where Do Rookies Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson Land? (Tier 4 | Useful, But Limited22) - Jared Goff, Detroit Lions:  Like Brock Purdy and Garoppolo, Jared Goff takes advantage of an excellent supporting cast to help produce on offense. He doesn’t process as quickly as the other two, and his accuracy is not quite up to their standards, but Goff does have a good arm and an understanding of what he needs to do. If he could create off-book as well as Purdy or some of the other quarterbacks on this list, he’d be ranked much higher.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/grading-dandre-swift-trade-eagles-lions/

Trade Grade:

D'Andre Swift trade grades: Eagles earn 'A' for move (Lions: C-.  The return isn't exactly a blockbuster for Detroit. It gains a high-end Day 3 pick in 2025 and swaps seventh rounders in this year's draft, so it doesn't exactly get the juices flowing, especially when it's a player who was a borderline first-rounder just a few years ago. That said, the Lions were clearly done with the player judging by the moves they made this offseason, which likely didn't do themselves any favors when trying to negotiate the best return for Swift, who also only has a year left on his deal. They gain a future asset while starting a new era in the backfield with Gibbs and Montgomery.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/dandre-swift-trade-grades-eagles-receive-a-for-low-risk-high-reward-move-lions-gm-calls-trade-win-win/

Grading the D’Andre Swift Trade: Eagles Add High-Upside RB to Backfield:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/grading-dandre-swift-trade-eagles-lions/

2024 NFL Draft:

Detroit is on the clock! 6 names to know before 2024 NFL draft hits downtown:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/29/2024-nfl-draft-coming-to-detroit-6-names-to-know/70165873007/

Video:




Podcast:

Posted by LionsFan at 4:49 PM 0 comments

Lions Draft Pick Sorsdal

Scouting Reports:

William and Mary:  https://tribeathletics.com/sports/football/roster/colby-sorsdal/15051




Articles:

FCS 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Reports Include Jadakis Bonds, Justin Ford, and Jaleel McLaughlin (Colby Sorsdal, OT | William & Mary (Scouting report by Ian Cummings):  FCS offensive linemen can separate themselves just by looking the part, and William & Mary blocker Colby Sorsdal certainly does that. At the Shrine Bowl, he looked like he belonged against top competition, and he no doubt won over a few teams in Vegas.  Sorsdal stands at 6’5 3/8”, and 304 pounds, with 33” arms. He’s big, well-proportioned, and a stellar athlete, with a documented 5.17 40-yard dash, a 27.5” vertical, and a 9’4” broad jump in the 93rd percentile.  Sorsdal stands out on tape with his easy mobility in space. He has range as a pulling blocker, but is also very nimble and well-leveraged in pass protection. He’s flexible and has good knee bend, can gather rushers with successive strikes, and actively finishes opponents with torque. Sorsdal can be a hidden gem in the 2023 class with his tools and temperament.”) (4-27-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/fcs-2023-nfl-draft-scouting-reports/

NFL Draft: Hunt's top small-college players on offense (OT Colby Sorsdal (William & Mary) (Height: 6-5, Weight: 301):  Sorsdal turned in stellar East-West Shrine Bowl performance, excelling equally in the run game as he did in pass pro. He gets off the ball really well in the run game, showing some explosiveness in that regard. In pass pro, he has the athleticism to run the hoop with the defender while also getting hands on him and being able to dance with him out on the perimeter.) (4-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/hunts-small-college-starting-11-offensive-prospects-to-know-at-every-position-ahead-of-2023-nfl-draft/

FCS prospects to know for the 2023 NFL draft (Colby Sorsdal | OL | William & Mary:  Colby Sorsdal started five years in college and had a fantastic season at offensive tackle last year. He was already drafted by the USFL this offseason, and the NFL could be next.) (4-24-23): https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2023-04-24/fcs-prospects-know-2023-nfl-draft




Top FCS 2023 NFL Draft Prospects Led by Cody Mauch, Tucker Kraft, and Xavier Gipson (Colby Sorsdal, OL, William & Mary:  Colby Sorsdal played exclusively at right tackle for William & Mary, but at 6’5″ and 301 pounds with 32″ arms, some might pigeonhole him to the inside at the next level. I’d give him the opportunity at tackle first, as he exhibited his prowess there while at the Shrine Bowl. He owns a steadfast anchor with heavy hands but is able to reset mid-rep if needed.  Sorsdal was a first-team All-American in 2022, and when turning on the tape, it became all too clear why. He didn’t allow a single sack, was a mauler in the ground game, and displayed efficient movement skills.)(3-6-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-fcs-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-tucker-kraft-xavier-gipson/

Sunday 2023 Shrine Bowl West Team Practice Report: Colby Sorsdal and Brent Laing Improve on Day 2 (Sunday Shrine Bowl Practice Report Headlined by Small-School Offensive Linemen - The West Team switched it up with the East Team and kicked off the practice day on Sunday. It was a focused, efficient session coached by the New England Patriots staff and brought plenty of new developments on the prospect side.  On Day 1 of practice, it was noticeable how new to the environment the small-school offensive linemen appeared at times — particularly William & Mary’s Colby Sorsdal and Minnesota-Duluth’s Brent Laing. But on Sunday, both Sorsdal and Laing were two of the strongest performers on the West offensive line.  Laing was a solid performer in team drills, playing guard and center. Some of his most eye-opening reps came in 1-on-1s, however, where he was able to hold off a Saturday standout in P.J. Mustipher. Despite measuring in just under 300 pounds, Laing was able to anchor and keep his base against Mustipher on one rush, preventing the Penn State lineman from penetrating the backfield.  Sorsdal was just as impressive as Laing, if not more so. Just as Laing drew a Saturday standout, Sorsdal did as well, facing off against Pittsburgh’s Habakkuk Baldonado. Sorsdal was able to latch and stymy Baldonado’s rush early. And later in team drills, facing Andre Jones, the 6’6″, 301-pound tackle acquired leverage and used combative hands to lock his man down. Laing and Sorsdal were impressive in a vacuum on Sunday, but even more encouraging was the linear growth they showed from Day 1 to Day 2. That’s something they’ll hopefully be able to carry throughout the rest of the week.") (1-29-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/sunday-2023-shrine-bowl-west-team-practice-report-colby-sorsdal-and-brent-laing-improve-on-day-2/

Saturday 2023 Shrine Bowl West Team Practice Report: Habakkuk Baldonado and PJ Mustipher Make Waves in Las Vegas (Many blockers, like British Columbia’s Theo Benedet, Minnesota-Duluth’s Brent Laing, William & Mary’s Colby Sorsdal, and Pace’s Jacky Chen are getting their first real NFL Draft exposure at this event. For these prospects, looking the part is the first step, and while it’s not everything, it’s a notable one.  Chen looks the part. So does Benedet. Both prospects have ideal size, and they had good moments. Chen proved he could stay square and keep his hands tight in pass protection. Benedet, meanwhile, moved very well. He showcased good lateral burst, flipped his hips to redirect defenders, and reloaded his hands well on extensions.  Laing and Sorsdal have more work to do in the days to come. Sorsdal struggled to fully acquire leverage at times, and he was also slow to replace his hands. Laing visibly lacked strength against some defensive linemen, and his hands were noticeably imprecise at times. Laing also took snaps at center, and while his build fits well there, botched snaps were an issue.  Taking all this into account, this was only one practice. Prospects who impressed will have an opportunity to build on their momentum. Prospects who perhaps lacked consistency will be able to take corrective steps in the days to come and prove themselves.) (1-28-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/saturday-2023-shrine-bowl-west-team-practice-report-habakkuk-baldonado-and-pj-mustipher-make-waves-in-las-vegas/

2023 NFL Draft: Top prospects to watch at 2023 East-West Shrine Bowl (9.  Colby Sorsdal, OL, William & Mary:  Sorsdal really reminds me of Bengals rookie Cordell Volson, as a tough-minded college tackle who could shift to guard and contribute quickly because of his size and aggressive play. Sorsdal has started for five years outside, earning all-conference honors the past two seasons because, with a strong base and lateral agility, he's tough for FCS-level edge rushers to beat. He might get a shot outside in the NFL, too, but I could really see a team maximizing his skill set by moving him to the interior.) (1-27-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-prospects-to-watch-at-2023-east-west-shrine-bowl

2023 Shrine Bowl: FCS NFL Draft Prospects Led by Tim DeMorat and BJ Thompson (Colby Sorsdal, OL, William & Mary:  With 46 career starts under his belt, it’s safe to say there isn’t much Colby Sorsdal hasn’t seen on the football field. He didn’t allow a single sack in 2022 and rivaled North Dakota State’s Cody Mauch as one of the best run blockers in the country.  He has the size (6’5″) and length (32.7″ arms) to stick at tackle, where he almost exclusively played on the right side for William & Mary. One-on-one reps at the Shrine Bowl will be where Sorsdal makes or tanks his draft stock.) (1-29-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-shrine-bowl-fcs-nfl-draft-prospects/

Highest-graded players participating in the East-West Shrine Bowl (5. OT COLBY SORSDAL, WILLIAM & MARY TRIBE (89.9):  Sorsdal was the second-highest-graded FCS offensive tackle this season, trailing only North Dakota State’s Cody Mauch, who is a top-45 prospect on PFF’s big board.  The senior didn’t allow any sacks in 2022 and earned the third-best run-blocking grade among FCS tackles (89.2).) (1-23-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2023-nfl-draft-highest-graded-players-east-west-shrine-bowl

'I'll Do Anything A Team Needs': William & Mary OL Colby Sorsdal Aims To Be Latest FCS to Pro Product (1-19-23):  https://steelersdepot.com/2023/01/ill-do-anything-a-team-needs-william-mary-ol-colby-sorsdal-aims-to-be-latest-fcs-to-pro-product/
 

Posted by LionsFan at 2:56 PM 0 comments

Pre-Draft Lions Links for Saturday 4-29-23

Articles:

2023 NFL draft grades: High marks for selecting Alabama’s Brian Branch with pick No. 45:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-grades-high-marks-for-selecting-alabamas-brian-branch-with-pick-no-45.html

5 things to know about Detroit Lions third-round pick Brodric Martin:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-third-round-pick-brodric-martin.html


Detroit Lions Day 3 draft primer: Picks, needs and players to know for Saturday:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/detroit-lions-day-3-draft-primer-picks-needs-and-players-to-know-for-saturday/

Hendon Hooker ready 'to be a sponge' in learning from Jared Goff:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/hendon-hooker-lion-draft-jared-goff-sponge-rehab/

2023 NFL draft film review: Jack Campbell can become the face of the Lions defense:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/2023-nfl-draft-film-review-jack-campbell-can-become-the-face-of-the-lions-defense/


2023 NFL draft film review: Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker was always a Lion:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/04/29/2023-nfl-draft-film-review-tennessee-qb-hendon-hooker-was-always-a-lion/

What Detroit Lions Said Day 2 of NFL Draft:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-said-day-2-nfl-draft

Lions Dominate Day 2, Earn National Praise:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-dominate-day-two-nfl-draft

Grading Lions' Pick of DB Brian Branch at No. 45:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/grading-lions-2023-pick-brian-branch





Biggest winners and losers from Day 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft (Winners - DETROIT LIONS:  The Lions reached a couple of times in Round 1 for players at low-value positions, and though they kept targeting those lower-value spots on Day 2, they added some exceptional players.  Brian Branch is an elite safety talent who can cover the slot at a very high level. Only a 4.58-second 40-yard dash time prevents him from being able to play every spot in the secondary. He was a common top pick in the first round in mock drafts, but the Lions got him at Pick 45.  Tight end Sam LaPorta is elite with the ball in his hands, breaking 20 tackles last season and giving the Lions an after-the-catch weapon that doesn’t exist outside of him.  The team also added some serious bulk along the defensive line in Brodric Martin, but the crowning pick was Hendon Hooker in the third round. The Tennessee quarterback had seen an incredible hype machine go to work on him before the draft with regular talk of the first round, but in truth, he was always more like a mid-round prospect. As a developmental player, though, he has true starting potential down the line, something that can’t be said for most other quarterbacks in this draft. Hooker made just five turnover-worthy plays all last season but ran an offense that forced him to work to the other side of the field just 15 times during his entire Tennessee career.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-biggest-winners-losers-day-2-2023-nfl-draft

2023 NFL Draft:



2023 NFL Draft: One player each team should target on Day 3 (DETROIT LIONS: WR BRYCE FORD-WHEATON, WEST VIRGINIA:  Ford-Wheaton posted a 70.3 PFF receiving grade in 2022, the highest mark of his career. He failed to top 700 yards in any season in college but is the type of plus athlete that is worth taking a chance on by the time you reach Day 3.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-one-player-each-team-should-target-day-3


Podcast:

Video:

Why Pollack loves Hendon Hooker's fit with the Lions:  https://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=36319015





Posted by LionsFan at 10:38 AM 0 comments

Brodric Martin Analysis and Grades

ESPN Tracker (Brodric Martin:  15 POS RK, 164
OVR RK, 54
GRADE.  Pre-Draft Analysis - Martin is a massive nose tackle who is tough to move off the ball with one blocker. And he has the long arms to stack blockers, and he flashes the ability to disengage in time to make the play. His pad level is inconsistent, and Martin can give too much ground when he gets doubled. But he has active hands, and he's quick for his size. However, Martin doesn't have the closing burst or change-of-direction ability to get to the quarterback with any kind of regularity. -- Steve Muench.  Post-Draft Analysis- The Lions could have gone defensive tackle at either selection in the first round, but they opted to wait on the position until Round 3. Martin will be the team's future at nose tackle, and he has flashed exceptional upside with his length, short-area quickness and strength. He's a work in progress, and he's nearly 24 years old, but he has potential. -- Matt Miller): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/teams/_/name/det/detroit-lions

NFL.com Brooks Analysis (Brodric Martin - This feels like a reach for a two-down nose tackle, but there are some interesting traits here. Martin has great mass and surprising length, and he moves surprisingly well for a 340-pounder. His limited arsenal of tools suggests he'll be a rotational player mostly.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-2

USA Today Tracker (x-96. Lions (from Cardinals) – DT Brodric Martin, Western Kentucky
A 6-5, 337-pounder who adds some serious power and gap control to a defense that ranked last in the NFL a year ago.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/04/28/nfl-draft-second-third-round-pick-tracker-2023-live-updates/11747819002/

ESPN Analysis (Round 3, No. 96: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky - My take: Martin is raw, but the Lions are excited about his upside. The 6-foot-5, 337-pound defensive tackle spent his first three seasons at North Alabama before finishing his career at Western Kentucky, where he racked up 31 tackles, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble as a redshirt senior. Although he wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine, he got on the Lions’ radar during the 2023 East-West Shrine Bowl after a solid performance prompted Holmes to take a closer look.  What we're hearing about Martin: “It’s hard to find, big, athletic, big guys like that so he just has a lot of meat on the bone. He’s got a lot of upside," Holmes said after selecting Martin. "He’s a big man. He’s athletic. He plays hard. He chases to the ball. I mean, I don’t think I’ve seen many 330, 340-pound guys run to the ball like he does and so when you get that, he’s got some rawness, but we’re really excited about his upside. He’s another guy that when we brought him for a visit, he just kind of lit the room up with his personality and just his mindset. He’s a really good kid that has a pretty unique story.”):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/39077/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2023-analysis-for-every-selection

PFF (R3 (96) DETROIT LIONS (VIA ARZ; COMPENSATORY PICK): DI BRODRIC MARTIN, WESTERN KENTUCKY (Pick Grade: Below Average):  The 163rd overall player on the PFF big board, this is a bit of a reach for the Lions, but Martin is a big player who can fill a role in the middle of their defensive line at 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds. Despite his size, he graded out better as a pass-rusher than a run defender in college and won 9.4% of his pass-rushing snaps in 2022.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-grades-all-day-2-picks

Grades:

FTW (Detroit Lions from Arizona Cardinals (96): Broderic Martin, DT, Western Kentucky - Detroit had an atrocious rushing defense last season as opposing offensive lines routinely created lanes you could run a truck through. Try doing that now with the 337-pound Martin plugging holes. — RZ.  Grade: A-):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-second-round-grades-tracker-2023

Yahoo (33 (96). Detroit Lions (from Cardinals, compensatory pick): Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky — Martin is raw, but he's a big, strong dude on the interior of the defensive line. It's a gamble for the Lions at this spot. Grade: C-):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2023-nfl-draft-second-and-third-round-instant-grades-for-every-pick-of-day-2-012417512.html

CBS (96. Lions: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky - Grade: D+.  Huge, overwhelming NT with crazy length he knows how to use well. Very limited athleticism and juice up the field but he will overwhelm with power at times. Gets off blocks well against the run. Very old prospect too. High pad level saps some of his power. The trade up lowers this grade more.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-day-2-grades-tracker-analysis-and-projections-for-all-third-round-picks-nfl-draft-order/

PFN (Round 3, Pick 96 - Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky.  Grade: D+.  The Lions had a clear focus on personnel flexibility when they traded back up to the 96th pick in the third round. They gave up three Day 3 selections to get in position here, and the player they deemed worth the move was Western Kentucky DT Brodric Martin.  Martin projects as a pure nose tackle at the next level. At around 6’5”, 330 pounds, he’s a massive space-eater with elite length and reach (35” arms, 83 ⅝” wingspan). With his sheer strength and width, Martin can occupy double-teams, clog gaps, and hold the line in run defense.  The size and strength present appeal with Martin, but this is a considerable reach – perhaps larger than any of the gambles Detroit made in Round 1. Martin graded as a late-Day 3 prospect at best for me.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/overall-nfl-draft-grades-2023/

Walter football (Detroit Lions: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky - D Grade.  I don't get why the Lions surrendered resources to move up for Brodric Martin, whom I had in the middle of the third day. Detroit wanted a defensive tackle - Gervon Dexter was an option in the second round - but Martin is a reach. I love Detroit's draft, but not this pick.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades.php

SN (Grade: D.  The Lions had been making good win-now or upside picks (Hendon Hooker) before this stumble after trading up for another pick. A development late-round run-stopping nose doesn’t do much to move the needle now or later.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/draft/2023/team/detroit-lions/5dqwb6vkqhagy6no1kbg1dnga








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