Articles:
KEY QUESTIONS: What did Quinn learn from the virtual draft process?: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-what-did-quinn-learn-from-the-virtual-draft-process
Detroit Lions 2020 UDFA tracker: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-2020-udfa-tracker/3028579001/
Projecting the Detroit Lions’ new depth chart following 2020 NFL draft: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/projecting-the-detroit-lions-new-depth-chart-following-2020-nfl-draft.html
Lions’ Bob Quinn ponders more virtual work in future after eye-opening NFL draft at home: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/lions-bob-quinn-ponders-more-virtual-work-in-future-after-eye-opening-at-home-draft-with-family.html
NFC North roundup: Minnesota Vikings bolster roster with whopping 11 draft picks on Day 3: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/nfc-north-roundup-minnesota-vikings-bolster-roster-with-whopping-11-draft-picks-on-day-3.html
It's now or never: Quinn, Lions can't let this draft class go to waste: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-weekend-haul-big-return/3025877001/
Lions need transformational return out of this NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-weekend-haul-big-return/3025877001/
Albom: Despite NFL draft, we’re nowhere close to normal: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2020/04/26/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft/3028633001/
Detroit Lions showed us something amazing in 2020 NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2020/04/26/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft/3028633001/
Quinn pumps brakes on defining rookie roles, but expects Okudah to start: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-quinn-pumps-brakes-defining-rookie-roles-but-expects-okudah-start/3028815001/
Wojo: In weird draft, Lions do solid job of buying in bulk: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/bob-wojnowski/2020/04/26/wojo-weird-draft-lions-do-solid-job-buying-bulk/3029195001/
Lions stock up on Buckeyes, taking 3 in draft: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29099424/detroit-lions-stock-ohio-state-buckeyes-nfl-draft
Presenting the Detroit Lions 2020 draft class: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/gallery/presenting-the-detroit-lions-2020-draft-class/
Tracking the Lions' well-traveled, oft-traded 5th-round pick: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/tracking-the-lions-well-traveled-oft-traded-5th-round-pick/
Post-draft wrap-up: One thought for all 32 teams (Detroit Lions: From the selection of running back D'Andre Swift this year and Kerryon Johnson in 2018 to the interior line picks that GM Bob Quinn has made in the last few years, the Lions have invested a lot of capital in improving their running game -- but they have yet to see great results. Quinn needs that vision to come together this season. Swift is the type of talent who can put the team's running game over the top.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111697/article/2020-nfl-draft-one-thought-for-all-32-teams-looking-forward
Biggest surprises of the 2020 NFL Draft (Taylor, Swift Landing Spots - It would have made perfect sense to see Wisconsin’s Jonathan Taylor and Georgia’s D’Andre Swift both come off the board in the first round, but in today’s NFL, it’s also not surprising to see running backs slip on draft day. But it wasn’t the fact that Swift and Taylor waited until early in the second round to hear their names called, it’s where they ended up. Swift went to the Detroit Lions at No. 35 overall, despite the fact that Kerryon Johnson was a second-round pick just two years ago. Taylor fell to the Indianapolis Colts, who traded up to grab him at No. 41 overall, despite the presence of a productive and talented three-down back in Marlon Mack. These picks were both great values overall, and they immediately make both offenses much better. Fantasy owners expected them to land with teams that would have featured them as workhorses from Day 1, though, and that won’t happen now.): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/2020-nfl-draft-surprises-jordan-love-aaron-rodgers-jalen-hurts-carson-wentz-jerry-jeudy-ceedee-lamb/4/
Lions addressed needs and drafted RB too talented to pass up: https://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/lions-addressed-needs-and-drafted-rb-too-talented-to-pass-up
Okudah:
At age 14, Lions' Jeff Okudah called his shot: I’m a first-round pick: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/26/jeff-okudah-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-ohio-state-football/3026768001/
Jashon Cornell:
Jashon Cornell treated his Ohio State senior year like it was NFL. Now he's a Lion: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jashon-cornell-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3026240001/
Lions' Jashon Cornell nearly went to MSU because of mentor Curtis Blackwell: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-jashon-cornell-nfl-draft-curtis-blackwell/3028805001/
Grades:
PFF 2020 NFL Draft grades for all 32 teams (Day 1: You can talk all you want about how the Lions should have traded out of this pick to get more value, but the truth is we don’t know what kind of offers (if any) were on the table. Jeffrey Okudah is a special cornerback prospect, a player who has allowed a completion percentage of 50% or less in each of the past three seasons. He has nearly as many forced incompletions over the last two years as he does first downs allowed. From athletic profile to production, it would be hard to draw up a better fit for Matt Patricia’s man-heavy coverage scheme than Okudah. “Okudah really does have it all. The ‘cons’ on his scouting report were some of the most difficult to write of any prospect in the class. He not only has a high floor, but everything you want for a high ceiling.” – PFF’s lead draft analyst Mike Renner. Day 2: Swift is a complete running back, but I'm not sure there's much he does with the ball in his hands I'd deem ‘special'. If you're valuing him highly, you better have a plan to take advantage of his receiving ability. He’s the top-ranked running back on PFF’s board but just the 71st-ranked player. “Is there something wrong with Kerryon Johnson that I don’t know of? I’m lost to explain why they would draft [Swift] here.” — PFF’s Mike Renner. “Of all the players that we at PFF were high on this year, Okwara is the one who I can’t understand why he didn’t get more love. Usually, edge defenders who check-in among the top 10 on Bruce Feldman’s ‘Freaks’ list get over-drafted in the NFL and not under-drafted the way we see Okwara. Although he’s undersized, Okwara is already one of the best bull-rushers in the entire draft class and can convert speed to power exceptionally well. He played only nine games this past season before breaking his leg but earned a 90.4 pass-rushing grade in those outings.” — PFF’s Mike Renner. “Jackson is quite easily my favorite pass-protecting guard prospect in the entire draft. On 460 pass-blocking snaps last season, Jackson allowed all of 10 pressures. Of those 10, only one came via a true one-on-one pass-rushing situation. This was nothing new, though, as he allowed even fewer pressures in 2018 (seven) on 398 pass-blocking snaps at right guard for Rutgers before transferring. He should be able to replace Graham Glasgow seamlessly for Detroit.” — PFF’s Mike Renner. Day 3: One could argue that the Lions were looking to upgrade both starting options at guard heading into the draft, and after selecting Jonah Jackson in the third round, they doubled up with Logan Stenberg in the fourth. Stenberg has a mean streak that should play well into the physical play style that the Detroit Lions seem to be building towards. His solid work in pass protection is also promising. Stenberg has pass-blocking grades of 75.0 or higher in each of the past two seasons. Penisini isn’t going to get after the quarterback at a high level, but he is going to do one thing better than most — stuff the run. After notching a run-defense grade of 83.2 in 2018, he bumped that all the way up to 90.6 this past season. Draft Grade: A)
SI Grades Every Team’s Picks in the 2020 NFL Draft (Lions No team played more man coverage than the Lions last season, which is a philosophy that head coach Matt Patricia brought over from New England. In that same vein, Patricia also puts a huge emphasis on matchups, having specific corners travel almost everywhere with specific receivers week after week. You must have a true No. 1 corner to consistently do this. What reigning Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore has brought to New England, the Lions hope Jeff Okudah will bring to Detroit. He’s a slightly different style of corner than the physical Gilmore; what scouts liked most about Okudah is he has the agility to mirror wide receivers. The Lions, who like to have multiple safeties helping in coverage, often instruct their corners to play in the low hip pocket of their man. Okudah shined with that at Ohio State. The only negative here is Detroit GM Bob Quinn probably felt he could get a quality corner a few picks later in the draft, but he did not get an enticing enough package to trade down. Okudah is the first corner drafted in the top three since Seattle took Shawn Springs third in 1997. He can slide right into the role previously filled by recently traded veteran Darius Slay. The downfall of Detroit’s man coverage last season was it occurred behind an absolutely futile pass rush. Enter third-round pick Julian Okwara. Julian is a different style of defensive lineman than his older brother Romeo, with whom he’ll now be teammates in Detroit. While Romeo is a long and somewhat thick-bodied moderate NFL-caliber athlete who is highly dependent on his mechanics, Julian is more of a dynamic edge defender, with the length, burst and flexibility to turn the corner and reach the quarterback. Guys with those attributes are not usually available in Round 3. The Lions desperately needed to buttress their pass rush; you’ll likely see Julian Okwara in a passing down sub-package specialist role in 2020. Offensively, the focus was on the running game. The Lions resumed their ongoing efforts to find Barry Sanders’s replacement. The latest swing here, D’Andre Swift, was a highly refined zone runner at Georgia and will operate mainly out of those designs in coordinator Darrell Bevell’s offense. Swift has the lateral agility to create his own space, and his potential explosiveness as a receiver could do wonders for a Lions offense that must regain some aerial balance after becoming heavily skewed toward vertical throws in 2019. With sustaining third-year back Kerryon Johnson aboard, expect Swift to fill an Alvin Kamara type role. To buttress the swift pick, Detroit added third-rounder Jonah Jackson, who has a chance to start immediately at right guard ahead of middling veterans Oday Aboushi and Kenny Wiggins (who has been a quality backup but turns 32 in August). And fortifying the Jackson selection, the Lions also pursued his likely backup in Logan Stenberg, a blue-collar scrapper who might even be able to compete for a starting job with Joe Dahl. Grade: A): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/26/nfl-draft-2020-team-grades-picks-analysis
Draftwire (Detroit Lions - After all the talk of trading down from No. 3 overall, the Lions stayed put and filled their biggest need with by far the best corner in the class, Ohio State’s Jeff Okudah. He’s a worthy replacement for the recently traded Darius Slay. Bigger needs aside, Georgia running back D’Andre Swift was a great value at No. 35 overall, and gives the Lions a dangerous 1-2 punch in the backfield with Kerryon Johnson. Was there a better moment than watching Notre Dame defensive end Julian Okwara realize he would be playing with his brother in Detroit? The Lions scored big by doubling up on two of this year’s best guard prospects in the third and fourth rounds with Ohio State’s Jonah Jackson and Kentucky’s Logan Stenberg. Oh, and Wisconsin wide receiver Quintez Cephus? Okudah said he’s the best receiver he’s ever faced. Not bad for a fifth-round pick. GRADE: A): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/26/2020-nfl-draft-grades-full-every-team/11/
NFL.com Quick-snap draft grades for each team: A for 'Boys (Detroit Lions - Day 1 grade: A. Day 2 grade: A-. Day 3 grade: A-. Overall grade: A-. Draft analysis: On the first two days of the draft, the Lions secured a shutdown cornerback, explosive running back, much-needed interior offensive line help and brought together two family members in a literal sense. They hit the offensive line again with Stenberg, who has exactly the type of nastiness and strength you want up front -- at times it got the best of him during his collegiate career, though, so maturity will be a factor in how fast he can contribute. Cephus was a third-round talent with a seventh-round 40 time (4.73). He'll be a factor in the Lions' offense sooner than later. Huntley can be a special teams ace. Penisini meets the team's need for a backup nose tackle.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111711/article/2020-nfl-draft-final-quicksnap-grades-for-all-32-teams
Monarrez: Lions earned a B-plus for 2020 NFL draft haul: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/26/detroit-lions-grades-nfl-draft-2020/3026249001/
USA Today (Grade - B. Detroit Lions: Adding No. 3 overall pick Jeff Okudah to the defense and upgrading QB Matthew Stafford's arsenal with second-round RB D'Andre Swift – good luck finding a better all-purpose back in this draft – and a pair of guards to keep him off his back should equate to a pretty good weekend's work.): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/04/25/nfl-draft-grades-2020-teams-packers-eagles-cowboys-dolphins/3026362001/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: B Grade. Goals Entering the 2020 NFL Draft: The Lions are in a difficult position. Their front office and coaching staff needs to do everything in its power to win now, but that conflicts with the health and status of Matthew Stafford. The long-time Detroit quarterback has a bad back and doesn't seem like he'll be available to play much longer. It'll be tough for Detroit to balance immediate success with a long-term answer. What they can do is trade down from No. 3 to accumulate more draft capital. 2020 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Detroit fans have to be very upset that the front office couldn't move down from No. 3. It may have been difficult for teams to wheel and deal on draft day - there were just four trades in the first round - but the Lions had two months to make a trade happen. Other teams can get a pass for not trading, but not the Lions. They would have easily obtained Jeff Okudah at No. 5 or 6. They should have taken anything, even if it was a fifth-round pick or a box of doughnuts. It's a shame the Lions didn't trade down because that spoiled what was an impressive class otherwise. Okudah will be a terrific player, while De'Andre Swift was a steal atop Round 2. Julian Okwara and Logan Stenberg were also solid choices. I wasn't a fan of the Jonah Jackson pick, mostly because the Lions unnecessarily traded up for him. The Lions are better than they were prior to the draft. If Matthew Stafford can remain healthy, Detroit can take the division with the Packers and Vikings in decline. However, this draft would've been so much better had the Lions just been more aggressive in acquiring more assets.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgradesteam.php
TW Grades and analysis for every team at the end of the 2020 NFL draft (Detroit Lions: B. Only the Patriots played a higher percentage of man coverage snaps than the Lions last season, so it made all the sense in the world that Detroit would go with Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah with the third overall pick. The best pure cornerback in this class, Okudah is a plug-and-play aggressor with impeccable technique. Second-round pick D’Andre Swift out of Georgia should provide immediate juice as a rusher and receiver, and he’s an underrated run-blocker. Two good guards came in the middle rounds with Ohio State’s Jonah Jackson in the third and Kentucky’s Logan Stenberg, but the guy to watch here is Notre Dame edge-rusher Julian Okwara, who has the speed and athleticism you’d expect from a tight end, and he brings it against offensive tackles. A little refinement in his game, and Okawra could prove to be one of the steals in this class.): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grades-and-analysis-for-every-team-at-the-end-of-the-2020-nfl-draft/2/
SN Grades the draft class (24. Detroit Lions
Grade: B- (Draft picks: CB Jeff Okudah, RB De’Andre Swift, DE/LB Julian Okwara, G Jonah Jackson, G Logan Stenberg, WR Quintez Cephus, RB Jason Huntley, DT John Penisini, DT Jashon Cornell): Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia started with a bang in Okudah, and their best picks after that related to biggest need and value were Okwara and Jackson. They weren’t in a position to take Swift as a luxury pick and possible upgrade to oft-injured but talented Kerryon Johnson. They could have done more to consider the defense at linebacker and tackle vs. doubling up on guard after getting Jackson.): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-grades-2020-best-worst-classes/2bs9w101joku1lruu8r1xwt9f
THOR'S SNAP DRAFT GRADES (Grade - D. The Okudah pick made sense, of course, and I loved the Okwara and Cephus selections. Outside of that, I didn’t get it. The Lions had too many holes to use a premium pick like 2.35 on a running back … and then they turn around and use a fifth-rounder on (another) receiving back? And then there were the reaches.): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-snap-draft-grades
Dave Birkett's grades: Lions' 2020 NFL draft class still has one 'F': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-grades-nfl-draft-2020/3028175001/
Detroit Lions' 2020 NFL Draft Grades: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades
UDFA:
Ranking the best remaining players after the 2020 NFL Draft (1. TE HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON (PFF BIG BOARD: 79TH). Bryant is a tweener. He's also a starter in NFL offenses even if you called him a WR. That's the way the game is going at TE nowadays. 16. S JALEN ELLIOTT, NOTRE DAME (PFF BIG BOARD: 183RD)
Elliott is not the kind of fluid athlete you want roaming in coverage over the middle of the field. A transition to corner may suit him well with his ball skills and how physically he plays receivers. 46. EDGE AUSTIN EDWARDS, FERRIS STATE (PFF BIG BOARD: 246TH) - Edwards impressed us in the one-on-ones at the Shrine Bowl practices. He looked like he came from an FBS program with his moves.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-ranking-the-100-best-available-2020-nfl-draft-prospects
UDFA dreams: The best undrafted players in the 2020 draft class (Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington - Many outlets, such as Pro Football Focus, considered Washington tight end Hunter Bryant the top player at his position in the 2020 NFL Draft. Bryant right now is more of your move-type tight end who shows flashes of being able to take on increased inline duties in the NFL, but will need some time to grow into that role. Right now his strength is as a receiver, who can operate out of the slot or the wing and use his combination of speed and athletic ability to work himself open against safeties and linebackers. He attacks the football in flight and almost always reaches full extension reaching for the football, avoiding some of the body catch issues that other players struggle with. Bryant does not have a complete route tree on his resume, but what he runs he excels at, as you can see him running away from defenders on post routes, shallow crossers, sit routes versus zone, deep outs on sail concepts, seam routes and wheel routes from the wing. Unfortunately, also has a bit of an injury history, as a knee injury suffered in 2018 ended his season early. This might explain why he slid out of the draft.): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/udfa-dreams-the-best-undrafted-players-in-the-2020-draft-class/2/
8 NFL undrafted free agents who could makes waves (Washington TE Hunter Bryant (Lions): Though only 6-2 and 248 pounds, Bryant can use his speed to threaten defenses down the seam. A creative offensive coordinator might find him useful in creating mismatches out wide.): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/04/25/nfl-draft-undrafted-free-agents-best-teams-anthony-gordon/3028574001/
THOR'S BEST AVAILABLE UDFA: https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thors-best-available-udfa
Video:
Quinn on Day 3 of NFL Draft: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/quinn-on-day-3-of-nfl-draft-x9554
Jashon Cornell Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/jashon-cornell-highlights
Quintez Cephus Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/quintez-cephus-highlights
'Draft Tonight': Favorite Round 5 WR pick: http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000001111666/Draft-Tonight-Favorite-Round-5-WR-pick
Sunday, April 26, 2020
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Evening Lions Links for Saturday 4-25-20
Articles:
Gil Brandt's top undrafted rookie FAs by position: http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111597/article/top-undrafted-rookie-free-agents-following-the-2020-nfl-draft
Jashon Cornell:
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Ohio State DT Jashon Cornell in seventh round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-ohio-state-dt-jashon-cornell-in-seventh-round.html
4 things to know about final Lions’ draft pick Jashon Cornell: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-final-lions-draft-pick-jashon-cornell.html
Lions draft defensive lineman Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-defensive-lineman-jashon-cornell
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive lineman Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-defensive-lineman-jashon-cornell
Lions pick Ohio State DL Jashon Cornell in Round 7 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jashon-cornell-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3026240001/
For good measure, Lions take one more Buckeye in DT Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/good-measure-lions-take-one-more-buckeye-dt-jashon-cornell/3027960001/
Detroit Lions draft DT Jashon Cornell from Ohio State in 7th round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-dt-jashon-cornell-from-ohio-state-in-7th-round/
Lions select DL Jashon Cornell with the 235th pick in the seventh round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-dl-jashon-cornell-with-the-235th-pick-in-the-seventh-round/
5 things to know about Jashon Cornell: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-jashon-cornell/
DT Jashon Cornell Is Latest Pick for Detroit Lions in Seventh Round: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-jashon-cornell
John Penisini:
New Lions DT John Penisini calls himself 'most slept on' player in draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3025875001/
Meet new Detroit Lions DT John Penisini: What you need to know about him: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-picks/3028048001/
Detroit Lions draft Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-sixth-round/
Jason Huntley:
New Lions RB Jason Huntley went from two-star prospect to NFL draft pick: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-jason-huntley-nfl-draft-2020/3028038001/
Day 3:
A quick primer on all the Lions' Day 3 picks from the NFL Draft: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quick-primer-all-lions-day-3-picks-nfl-draft/3028055001/
Meet all the Lions' Day 3 draft picks: https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/meet-all-lions-day-3-draft-picks/3028334001/
Cornell Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State - A Grade. It's unclear why more attention wasn't paid to Jashon Cornell, as he may have suffered from not being able to show off at his pro day because of the pandemic. Cornell was a disruptive player last year who was able to generate a pass rush. He's a bit undersized, but he should've been chosen earlier.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades7.php
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jashon-cornell-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grade-reaction/3026247001/
Lionswire (Lions get a B): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-detroit-lions-selection-of-jashon-cornell/
CBS (235. Lions: DT Jashon Cornell, Ohio State - Grade: C+. Cornell has a unique frame which allows him to line up anywhere up front and flashes some hand-work to beat blockers at the point of attack. Just a lower-level athlete and never truly dominated.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-seventh-round-selection/
Analysis:
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 7, No. 235 overall: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State
My take: The Lions went all-in on Ohio State players in the 2020 draft. Detroit took a Buckeye on each day, from Jeff Okudah at the start to Cornell at the end. Cornell won't give the Lions a ton in terms of pass rush, notching seven career sacks, but he can be good against the run with 13.5 career tackles for loss. He's a versatile player who at 285 pounds can move between tackle and a heavier end. But he likely projects as a tackle. After ignoring the position for the first two days of the draft, the Lions use their last two picks on defensive tackles. What does it mean? Figure Danny Shelton and Nick Williams are going to get a bunch of reps unless one Cornell or Penisini surprises early.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
PFF (PICK 235: DETROIT LIONS — EDGE JASHON CORNELL, OHIO STATE
There isn’t a huge sample of play to look back on for Cornell, as he maxed out at 393 defensive snaps in 2019, but there was promise with his performance in 2019. He earned a 90.2 overall grade with 80.0-plus grades as a run defender and as a pass rusher. That pushed him into the back-end of our top-250 big board (249th).): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
PFN (235. Detroit Lions: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State - Pauline’s Ranking: #441 (DT37) | Scouting Report: PFN Consensus: #N/A | RAS: N/A. Pauline: Jashon Cornell is a defensive tackle with defensive end size and speed. He has limitation but would be effective as a three-technique tackle. DiCecco: The Lions add undersized defensive tackle Jashon Cornell. Played in nearly 50 games over his Buckeyes career, but logged just 15 starts.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
NFL.com (235) Jashon Cornell, DE, Detroit Lions - Ohio State isn't a bad place to take a late-round flier from, especially with the offensive and defensive line. Detroit adds another body to compete for a depth role at end or tackle.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111557/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-67
Video:
Logan Stenberg Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/logan-stenberg-highlights
Jason Huntley Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/jason-huntley-highlights
Lions 2020 NFL draft class: How did they fare?: https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-class/3028399001/
Gil Brandt's top undrafted rookie FAs by position: http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111597/article/top-undrafted-rookie-free-agents-following-the-2020-nfl-draft
Jashon Cornell:
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Ohio State DT Jashon Cornell in seventh round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-ohio-state-dt-jashon-cornell-in-seventh-round.html
4 things to know about final Lions’ draft pick Jashon Cornell: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-final-lions-draft-pick-jashon-cornell.html
Lions draft defensive lineman Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-defensive-lineman-jashon-cornell
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive lineman Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-defensive-lineman-jashon-cornell
Lions pick Ohio State DL Jashon Cornell in Round 7 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jashon-cornell-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3026240001/
For good measure, Lions take one more Buckeye in DT Jashon Cornell: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/good-measure-lions-take-one-more-buckeye-dt-jashon-cornell/3027960001/
Detroit Lions draft DT Jashon Cornell from Ohio State in 7th round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-dt-jashon-cornell-from-ohio-state-in-7th-round/
Lions select DL Jashon Cornell with the 235th pick in the seventh round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-dl-jashon-cornell-with-the-235th-pick-in-the-seventh-round/
5 things to know about Jashon Cornell: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-jashon-cornell/
DT Jashon Cornell Is Latest Pick for Detroit Lions in Seventh Round: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-jashon-cornell
John Penisini:
New Lions DT John Penisini calls himself 'most slept on' player in draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3025875001/
Meet new Detroit Lions DT John Penisini: What you need to know about him: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-picks/3028048001/
Detroit Lions draft Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-sixth-round/
Jason Huntley:
New Lions RB Jason Huntley went from two-star prospect to NFL draft pick: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-jason-huntley-nfl-draft-2020/3028038001/
Day 3:
A quick primer on all the Lions' Day 3 picks from the NFL Draft: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quick-primer-all-lions-day-3-picks-nfl-draft/3028055001/
Meet all the Lions' Day 3 draft picks: https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/meet-all-lions-day-3-draft-picks/3028334001/
Cornell Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State - A Grade. It's unclear why more attention wasn't paid to Jashon Cornell, as he may have suffered from not being able to show off at his pro day because of the pandemic. Cornell was a disruptive player last year who was able to generate a pass rush. He's a bit undersized, but he should've been chosen earlier.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades7.php
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jashon-cornell-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grade-reaction/3026247001/
Lionswire (Lions get a B): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-detroit-lions-selection-of-jashon-cornell/
CBS (235. Lions: DT Jashon Cornell, Ohio State - Grade: C+. Cornell has a unique frame which allows him to line up anywhere up front and flashes some hand-work to beat blockers at the point of attack. Just a lower-level athlete and never truly dominated.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-seventh-round-selection/
Analysis:
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 7, No. 235 overall: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State
My take: The Lions went all-in on Ohio State players in the 2020 draft. Detroit took a Buckeye on each day, from Jeff Okudah at the start to Cornell at the end. Cornell won't give the Lions a ton in terms of pass rush, notching seven career sacks, but he can be good against the run with 13.5 career tackles for loss. He's a versatile player who at 285 pounds can move between tackle and a heavier end. But he likely projects as a tackle. After ignoring the position for the first two days of the draft, the Lions use their last two picks on defensive tackles. What does it mean? Figure Danny Shelton and Nick Williams are going to get a bunch of reps unless one Cornell or Penisini surprises early.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
PFF (PICK 235: DETROIT LIONS — EDGE JASHON CORNELL, OHIO STATE
There isn’t a huge sample of play to look back on for Cornell, as he maxed out at 393 defensive snaps in 2019, but there was promise with his performance in 2019. He earned a 90.2 overall grade with 80.0-plus grades as a run defender and as a pass rusher. That pushed him into the back-end of our top-250 big board (249th).): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
PFN (235. Detroit Lions: Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State - Pauline’s Ranking: #441 (DT37) | Scouting Report: PFN Consensus: #N/A | RAS: N/A. Pauline: Jashon Cornell is a defensive tackle with defensive end size and speed. He has limitation but would be effective as a three-technique tackle. DiCecco: The Lions add undersized defensive tackle Jashon Cornell. Played in nearly 50 games over his Buckeyes career, but logged just 15 starts.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
NFL.com (235) Jashon Cornell, DE, Detroit Lions - Ohio State isn't a bad place to take a late-round flier from, especially with the offensive and defensive line. Detroit adds another body to compete for a depth role at end or tackle.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111557/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-67
Video:
Logan Stenberg Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/logan-stenberg-highlights
Jason Huntley Highlights: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/jason-huntley-highlights
Lions 2020 NFL draft class: How did they fare?: https://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-class/3028399001/
Late Afternoon Lions Links for Saturday 4-25-20
Articles:
5th Round Picks
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions add WR Quintez Cephus, RB Jason Huntley in fifth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-with-first-of-2-fifth-round-picks.html
DT John Penisini:
Lions draft defensive tackle John Penisini: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-defensive-tackle-john-penisini
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive tackle John Penisini: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-defensive-tackle-john-penisini
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-sixth-round.html
Lions shift back to defense, add Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-shift-back-defense-add-utah-dt-john-penisini-sixth-round/3027741001/
Lions select DT John Penisini with the 197th pick in the sixth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-dt-john-penisini-with-the-197th-pick-in-the-sixth-round/
How does the defensive tackle depth chart change with John Penisini?: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/john-penisini-lions-draft-depth-chart/
Instant analysis of the Lions selecting DT John Penisini: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-selecting-dt-john-penisini/
5 things to know about John Penisini: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-john-penisini/
Lions Select Utah DT John Penisini in Sixth Round: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-john-penisini
RB Jason Huntley:
Lions draft running back Jason Huntley: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-running-back-jason-huntley
A CLOSER LOOK: Running back Jason Huntley: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-running-back-jason-huntley
4 things to know about Jason Huntley, Lions’ speedy new back: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-jason-huntley-lions-speedy-new-back.html
Lions grab speedy, versatile RB Jason Huntley late in fifth round: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-grab-speedy-versatile-rb-jason-huntley-late-fifth-round/3027022001/
Lions pick New Mexico State RB Jason Huntley in Round 5 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-pick-round-5-2020-nfl-draft/3026237001/
Lions get 'speed guy' in New Mexico State's Jason Huntley, a return option: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-pick-round-5-2020-nfl-draft/3026237001/
Lions select RB/KR Jason Huntley with the 172nd pick in the fifth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-rb-kr-jason-huntley-with-the-172th-pick-in-the-fifth-round/
Instant analysis for the Lions selecting RB Jason Huntley: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-for-the-lions-selecting-rb-jason-huntley/
5 things to know about Jason Huntley: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-jason-huntley/
Detroit Lions draft RB/kickoff returner Jason Huntley in fifth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-rb-kickoff-returner-jason-huntley-in-fifth-round/
RB Jason Huntley is Latest Pick for Lions: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-rb-jason-huntley
WR Quintez Cephus:
Lions draft wide receiver Quintez Cephus: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-wide-receiver-quintez-cephus
A CLOSER LOOK: Wide receiver Quintez Cephus: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-wide-receiver-quintez-cephus
5 things to know about Lions’ 5th-round pick Quintez Cephus: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/5-things-to-know-about-lions-5th-round-pick-quintez-cephus.html
Lions take Quintez Cephus in NFL draft with pick from Darius Slay trade: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3017595001/
Lions' Quintez Cephus was the best WR Jeff Okudah covered in college: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3017595001/
New Lions WR Quintez Cephus was acquitted of sexual assault in college: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-quintez-cephus-acquitted-sexual-assault/3027405001/
Wisconsin WR Quintez Cephus a 'technician'; Lions take him in Round 5: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-technician-lions-take-him-round-5/3027200001/
Wisconsin's Quintez Cephus says Lions got themselves a 'complete receiver': https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-technician-lions-take-him-round-5/3027200001/
Detroit Lions draft Wisconsin WR Quintez Cephus in fifth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-in-fifth-round/
Lions select Quintez Cephus with the 166th pick in the fifth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-quintez-cephus-with-the-166th-pick-in-the-fifth-round/
Instant analysis of the Lions selecting WR Quintez Cephus: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-selecting-wr-quintez-cephus/
Meet Quintez Cephus, Wisconsin's big-play WR prospect: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/02/20/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-quintez-cephus-wisconsin-interview/
Where does fifth-round pick Quintez Cephus fit on the depth chart?: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/where-does-fifth-round-pick-quintez-cephus-fit-on-the-depth-chart/
Detroit's Latest Pick is WR Quintez Cephus: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-wr-quintez-cephus
Cephus Grades:
CBS (166. Lions: WR Quintez Cephus, Wisconsin - Grade: B+. Cephus is a battler in traffic and plays faster than his timed speed. Thick body. Could even be a big slot in the NFL. Not a separator. Quality depth for Lions at WR.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection/
Lionswire (Lions get a B-): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-fifth-round-selection-of-quintez-cephus/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a C): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grade-reaction/3026466001/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - D Grade. Speaking of receivers who can't separate, Quintez Cephus is not a player I had mocked in most of my updates. I think I had him undrafted most of April. He was productive at Wisconsin, but he doesn't look like an NFL player to me.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Huntley Grade:
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-reaction/3026245001/
Lionswire (Lions get a C): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-detroit-lions-selection-of-jason-huntley/
CBS (172. Lions: RB Jason Huntley, New Mexico St. - Grade: D+. Huntley has major juice down the field but is very small-framed. Second RB pick for Detroit in already jam-packed RB room. Weird.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - D- Grade
Jason Huntley wasn't on my radar as a draftable prospect. He was productive at New Mexico State, but that's not going to translate to the pros. Huntley is too small (5-9, 193).): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Penisini Grades:
CBS (197. Lions: DT John Penisini, Utah
Grade: A-. Penisini will boost the Lions run defense immediately and constantly battles with his hands to get an edge. Good strength and deceptive athlete. Nice value here for Detroit at position of need.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-sixth-round-selection/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: John Penisini, DT, Utah - B Grade. John Penisini is a quality pass rusher who has good technique, so he makes sense here in the sixth round, though I didn't have him drafted. The athleticism isn't good, but Penisini could end up being a fine rotational player.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades6.php
Lionswire (Lions get a B): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-drafting-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-the-6th-round/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a C): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3026246001/
Analysis:
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 5, No. 166 overall: Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - My take: The Lions always seemed like they were going to take a receiver at some point during the 2020 draft, but Cephus is somewhat surprising. He ran a slow (for a receiver) 4.73 40-yard dash at the combine but he has good size (6-foot-1, 202 pounds) and strong athleticism. He's a player the Lions can develop since there will be little expected of him this year with Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr., Danny Amendola and Marvin Hall, at least, probably ahead of him on the depth chart. Surprised the Lions didn't go with K.J. Hill or Donovan Peoples-Jones based off who was on the board at the time.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 5, No. 173 overall: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - My take: Not sure why the Lions felt the need to double up on running back in the fifth round while they still haven't addressed defensive tackle, edge rusher/defensive end and safety, which are positions of more need, especially after taking D'Andre Swift in Round 2. What this could mean is multi-faceted. The Lions seem to want to shift how they are running and this is a definite warning sign to Bo Scarbrough, Ty Johnson and maybe even Kerryon Johnson about their futures with the club. Huntley is a smaller back who is a good receiver, so maybe they ticket him for a role kind of like J.D. McKissic had last year. Bob Quinn usually has one head scratching pick in every draft that sometimes works out (Tracy Walker) and sometimes really fails (Jimmy Landes). This might be that selection.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 6, No. 197 overall: John Penisini, DT, Utah - My take: Meh. The interior of the defensive line appeared to be a clear need entering this year's NFL draft and the Lions continually ignored the position until the end of the sixth round with the selection of Penisini. He never seemed to have massive production for the Utes, with only five career sacks and 15 career tackles for loss. He should have a chance to get work early with Danny Shelton and Nick Williams the two main tackles along with Romeo Okwara and Da'Shawn Hand capable of helping out as end/tackles. With Penisini's size, he might end up as the backup to Shelton early on.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
PFF (PICK 166: DETROIT LIONS — WR QUINTEZ CEPHUS, WISCONSIN
Cephus has some things you like to see as a route-runner, and he is also adept at handling press coverage. He’s graded out well each of the past two seasons with 80.0-plus grades at Wisconsin. There are clear athletic limitations that will likely pigeonhole him to the slot, however. With Marvin Jones and Kenny Golladay already manning spots outside, that seems to be where he will fit best with the Lions. PICK 172: DETROIT LIONS — RB JASON HUNTLEY, NEW MEXICO STATE: Coming out of New Mexico State, Huntley is very small at 5-foot-9 and 188 pounds. He finished last season with an 86.1 rushing grade, averaging nearly seven yards per carry. Huntley caught 37 passes, as well, but he only averaged 4.9 yards per reception. The Lions could also look to use him in the return game where he also saw action for the Aggies.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
PFF (PICK 197: DETROIT LIONS — DT JOHN PENISINI, UTAH - Detroit got great value in Penisini this late in the draft. He was 104th on our board — he's going to be a run-stuffer at the next level. There isn’t much pass-rush skill to speak of and he’s certainly not going to be a pocket pusher in the NFL, but that was known and perhaps part of the reason he fell this far. Regardless, the Lions got a great run-stuffing interior defender in Penisini, who is coming off a season in which he posted an elite 90.6 run-defense grade.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Cephus has average height and good bulk with a chiseled frame. He's a strong runner after the catch. He shows good body control and is competitive in traffic, but he has small hands and drops passes too often. Cephus has marginal initial quickness and top-end speed. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Huntley is an undersized back with very good top-end speed. He's a dynamic player who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year. He finished his college career with 134 catches for 1,119 yards and had five touchdowns on kickoff returns. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Penisini has above average size and strength with a low center of gravity. He flashes the ability to stack and shed blockers in time to make plays. He's a far better run defender than pass-rusher, though he flashes violent hands and the ability to push the pocket. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
CBS (WR Cephus - Draft Scouting Report: Rating: 71. Strengths: Battler at the line of scrimmage. Seemingly made a difficult grab every game in 2019. Surprising speed down the field. Physical, big-bodied wideout who's a load to bring to the turf. Weaknesses: NFL-caliber twitch isn't there. Speed isn't bad but won't float a safety his way): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/
NFL.com (166) Quintez Cephus, WR, Detroit Lions - All of Detroit's top receivers are set to hit free agency in 2021, so this could be a long play for the Lions. Cephus isn't an explosive athlete, but he's dependable and tough. He's also great in the run game, which this regime will love.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
NFL.com (172) Jason Huntley, RB, Detroit Lions (via Raiders)
Huntley should be in competition for the team's multi-purpose/returner job. He'll need to shine on special teams in camp to make the roster.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
NFL.com 197) John Penisini, DT, Detroit Lions (via Colts): Detroit had the fourth-lowest run stuff rate in the NFL last season, so it can use all the help it can get. Penisini is a gap-clogger who could find his way into the rotation early.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
PFN (166. Detroit Lions: Quintex Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - Pauline’s Ranking: #170 (WR26) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #155 | RAS: 4.54. Pauline: Quintez Cephus flashed brilliance and dominance at Wisconsin when he was on the field. But character concerns, as well as a horrific forty time at the combine, pushed him into the late rounds. If Cephus keeps his focus on the field he will be a good number three wideout in the NFL. DiCecco: The Lions add another big-bodied receiver to team with Kenny Golladay. Cephus did not run well at the NFL Combine, but has decent build-up speed and is a terror after the catch. Not sure if he becomes a starter in 2020, but could develop into one sooner than later.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
PFN (172. Detroit Lions: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - Pauline’s Ranking: #545 (RB43) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: N/A| RAS: 8.07. Pauline: Jason Huntley is a name not well known to those outside the scouting community. He’s a quick, creative ball carrier who works hard running on the inside while possessing the speed necessary to turn the perimeter. He turned in a terrific pro-day workout and will be a good third-down back at the next level. DiCecco: Lions make a surprising selection, opting to go with New Mexico State running back Jason Huntley. Huntley isn’t the biggest, but is extremely shifty and runs hard and has the elusiveness to turn the corner and run to daylight. Intriguing selection.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
PFN (197. Detroit Lions: John Penisini, DT, Utah - Pauline’s Ranking: #176 (DT16) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #214 | RAS: N/A. Pauline: John Penisini makes up for his lack of size and athleticism with fundamentally sound, intense play. He possesses the all-out mentality teammate Leki Fotu does not. He gets the most from his ability and I have no doubt Pensini will have a long NFL career. DiCecco: Like Bravvion Roy, John Penisini is another interior defender that is built low to the ground and plays with outstanding leverage. He gave blockers fits throughout the week with his play-strength and burst off the ball.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
5th Round Picks
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions add WR Quintez Cephus, RB Jason Huntley in fifth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-with-first-of-2-fifth-round-picks.html
DT John Penisini:
Lions draft defensive tackle John Penisini: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-defensive-tackle-john-penisini
A CLOSER LOOK: Defensive tackle John Penisini: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-defensive-tackle-john-penisini
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-sixth-round.html
Lions shift back to defense, add Utah DT John Penisini in sixth round: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-shift-back-defense-add-utah-dt-john-penisini-sixth-round/3027741001/
Lions select DT John Penisini with the 197th pick in the sixth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-dt-john-penisini-with-the-197th-pick-in-the-sixth-round/
How does the defensive tackle depth chart change with John Penisini?: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/john-penisini-lions-draft-depth-chart/
Instant analysis of the Lions selecting DT John Penisini: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-selecting-dt-john-penisini/
5 things to know about John Penisini: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-john-penisini/
Lions Select Utah DT John Penisini in Sixth Round: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-john-penisini
RB Jason Huntley:
Lions draft running back Jason Huntley: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-running-back-jason-huntley
A CLOSER LOOK: Running back Jason Huntley: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-running-back-jason-huntley
4 things to know about Jason Huntley, Lions’ speedy new back: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-jason-huntley-lions-speedy-new-back.html
Lions grab speedy, versatile RB Jason Huntley late in fifth round: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-grab-speedy-versatile-rb-jason-huntley-late-fifth-round/3027022001/
Lions pick New Mexico State RB Jason Huntley in Round 5 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-pick-round-5-2020-nfl-draft/3026237001/
Lions get 'speed guy' in New Mexico State's Jason Huntley, a return option: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-pick-round-5-2020-nfl-draft/3026237001/
Lions select RB/KR Jason Huntley with the 172nd pick in the fifth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-rb-kr-jason-huntley-with-the-172th-pick-in-the-fifth-round/
Instant analysis for the Lions selecting RB Jason Huntley: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-for-the-lions-selecting-rb-jason-huntley/
5 things to know about Jason Huntley: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-jason-huntley/
Detroit Lions draft RB/kickoff returner Jason Huntley in fifth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-rb-kickoff-returner-jason-huntley-in-fifth-round/
RB Jason Huntley is Latest Pick for Lions: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-rb-jason-huntley
WR Quintez Cephus:
Lions draft wide receiver Quintez Cephus: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-draft-wide-receiver-quintez-cephus
A CLOSER LOOK: Wide receiver Quintez Cephus: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-wide-receiver-quintez-cephus
5 things to know about Lions’ 5th-round pick Quintez Cephus: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/5-things-to-know-about-lions-5th-round-pick-quintez-cephus.html
Lions take Quintez Cephus in NFL draft with pick from Darius Slay trade: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3017595001/
Lions' Quintez Cephus was the best WR Jeff Okudah covered in college: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3017595001/
New Lions WR Quintez Cephus was acquitted of sexual assault in college: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-quintez-cephus-acquitted-sexual-assault/3027405001/
Wisconsin WR Quintez Cephus a 'technician'; Lions take him in Round 5: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-technician-lions-take-him-round-5/3027200001/
Wisconsin's Quintez Cephus says Lions got themselves a 'complete receiver': https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-technician-lions-take-him-round-5/3027200001/
Detroit Lions draft Wisconsin WR Quintez Cephus in fifth round: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-wisconsin-wr-quintez-cephus-in-fifth-round/
Lions select Quintez Cephus with the 166th pick in the fifth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-quintez-cephus-with-the-166th-pick-in-the-fifth-round/
Instant analysis of the Lions selecting WR Quintez Cephus: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-selecting-wr-quintez-cephus/
Meet Quintez Cephus, Wisconsin's big-play WR prospect: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/02/20/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-quintez-cephus-wisconsin-interview/
Where does fifth-round pick Quintez Cephus fit on the depth chart?: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/where-does-fifth-round-pick-quintez-cephus-fit-on-the-depth-chart/
Detroit's Latest Pick is WR Quintez Cephus: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-wr-quintez-cephus
Cephus Grades:
CBS (166. Lions: WR Quintez Cephus, Wisconsin - Grade: B+. Cephus is a battler in traffic and plays faster than his timed speed. Thick body. Could even be a big slot in the NFL. Not a separator. Quality depth for Lions at WR.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection/
Lionswire (Lions get a B-): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-fifth-round-selection-of-quintez-cephus/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a C): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/quintez-cephus-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grade-reaction/3026466001/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - D Grade. Speaking of receivers who can't separate, Quintez Cephus is not a player I had mocked in most of my updates. I think I had him undrafted most of April. He was productive at Wisconsin, but he doesn't look like an NFL player to me.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Huntley Grade:
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/jason-huntley-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-reaction/3026245001/
Lionswire (Lions get a C): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-detroit-lions-selection-of-jason-huntley/
CBS (172. Lions: RB Jason Huntley, New Mexico St. - Grade: D+. Huntley has major juice down the field but is very small-framed. Second RB pick for Detroit in already jam-packed RB room. Weird.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - D- Grade
Jason Huntley wasn't on my radar as a draftable prospect. He was productive at New Mexico State, but that's not going to translate to the pros. Huntley is too small (5-9, 193).): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php
Penisini Grades:
CBS (197. Lions: DT John Penisini, Utah
Grade: A-. Penisini will boost the Lions run defense immediately and constantly battles with his hands to get an edge. Good strength and deceptive athlete. Nice value here for Detroit at position of need.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-sixth-round-selection/
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: John Penisini, DT, Utah - B Grade. John Penisini is a quality pass rusher who has good technique, so he makes sense here in the sixth round, though I didn't have him drafted. The athleticism isn't good, but Penisini could end up being a fine rotational player.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades6.php
Lionswire (Lions get a B): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-drafting-utah-dt-john-penisini-in-the-6th-round/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a C): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/john-penisini-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3026246001/
Analysis:
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 5, No. 166 overall: Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - My take: The Lions always seemed like they were going to take a receiver at some point during the 2020 draft, but Cephus is somewhat surprising. He ran a slow (for a receiver) 4.73 40-yard dash at the combine but he has good size (6-foot-1, 202 pounds) and strong athleticism. He's a player the Lions can develop since there will be little expected of him this year with Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr., Danny Amendola and Marvin Hall, at least, probably ahead of him on the depth chart. Surprised the Lions didn't go with K.J. Hill or Donovan Peoples-Jones based off who was on the board at the time.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 5, No. 173 overall: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - My take: Not sure why the Lions felt the need to double up on running back in the fifth round while they still haven't addressed defensive tackle, edge rusher/defensive end and safety, which are positions of more need, especially after taking D'Andre Swift in Round 2. What this could mean is multi-faceted. The Lions seem to want to shift how they are running and this is a definite warning sign to Bo Scarbrough, Ty Johnson and maybe even Kerryon Johnson about their futures with the club. Huntley is a smaller back who is a good receiver, so maybe they ticket him for a role kind of like J.D. McKissic had last year. Bob Quinn usually has one head scratching pick in every draft that sometimes works out (Tracy Walker) and sometimes really fails (Jimmy Landes). This might be that selection.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Mike Rothstein (Round 6, No. 197 overall: John Penisini, DT, Utah - My take: Meh. The interior of the defensive line appeared to be a clear need entering this year's NFL draft and the Lions continually ignored the position until the end of the sixth round with the selection of Penisini. He never seemed to have massive production for the Utes, with only five career sacks and 15 career tackles for loss. He should have a chance to get work early with Danny Shelton and Nick Williams the two main tackles along with Romeo Okwara and Da'Shawn Hand capable of helping out as end/tackles. With Penisini's size, he might end up as the backup to Shelton early on.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
PFF (PICK 166: DETROIT LIONS — WR QUINTEZ CEPHUS, WISCONSIN
Cephus has some things you like to see as a route-runner, and he is also adept at handling press coverage. He’s graded out well each of the past two seasons with 80.0-plus grades at Wisconsin. There are clear athletic limitations that will likely pigeonhole him to the slot, however. With Marvin Jones and Kenny Golladay already manning spots outside, that seems to be where he will fit best with the Lions. PICK 172: DETROIT LIONS — RB JASON HUNTLEY, NEW MEXICO STATE: Coming out of New Mexico State, Huntley is very small at 5-foot-9 and 188 pounds. He finished last season with an 86.1 rushing grade, averaging nearly seven yards per carry. Huntley caught 37 passes, as well, but he only averaged 4.9 yards per reception. The Lions could also look to use him in the return game where he also saw action for the Aggies.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
PFF (PICK 197: DETROIT LIONS — DT JOHN PENISINI, UTAH - Detroit got great value in Penisini this late in the draft. He was 104th on our board — he's going to be a run-stuffer at the next level. There isn’t much pass-rush skill to speak of and he’s certainly not going to be a pocket pusher in the NFL, but that was known and perhaps part of the reason he fell this far. Regardless, the Lions got a great run-stuffing interior defender in Penisini, who is coming off a season in which he posted an elite 90.6 run-defense grade.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Cephus has average height and good bulk with a chiseled frame. He's a strong runner after the catch. He shows good body control and is competitive in traffic, but he has small hands and drops passes too often. Cephus has marginal initial quickness and top-end speed. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Huntley is an undersized back with very good top-end speed. He's a dynamic player who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year. He finished his college career with 134 catches for 1,119 yards and had five touchdowns on kickoff returns. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
ESPN Tracker (Pre-Draft Analysis - Penisini has above average size and strength with a low center of gravity. He flashes the ability to stack and shed blockers in time to make plays. He's a far better run defender than pass-rusher, though he flashes violent hands and the ability to push the pocket. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
CBS (WR Cephus - Draft Scouting Report: Rating: 71. Strengths: Battler at the line of scrimmage. Seemingly made a difficult grab every game in 2019. Surprising speed down the field. Physical, big-bodied wideout who's a load to bring to the turf. Weaknesses: NFL-caliber twitch isn't there. Speed isn't bad but won't float a safety his way): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/
NFL.com (166) Quintez Cephus, WR, Detroit Lions - All of Detroit's top receivers are set to hit free agency in 2021, so this could be a long play for the Lions. Cephus isn't an explosive athlete, but he's dependable and tough. He's also great in the run game, which this regime will love.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
NFL.com (172) Jason Huntley, RB, Detroit Lions (via Raiders)
Huntley should be in competition for the team's multi-purpose/returner job. He'll need to shine on special teams in camp to make the roster.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
NFL.com 197) John Penisini, DT, Detroit Lions (via Colts): Detroit had the fourth-lowest run stuff rate in the NFL last season, so it can use all the help it can get. Penisini is a gap-clogger who could find his way into the rotation early.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
PFN (166. Detroit Lions: Quintex Cephus, WR, Wisconsin - Pauline’s Ranking: #170 (WR26) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #155 | RAS: 4.54. Pauline: Quintez Cephus flashed brilliance and dominance at Wisconsin when he was on the field. But character concerns, as well as a horrific forty time at the combine, pushed him into the late rounds. If Cephus keeps his focus on the field he will be a good number three wideout in the NFL. DiCecco: The Lions add another big-bodied receiver to team with Kenny Golladay. Cephus did not run well at the NFL Combine, but has decent build-up speed and is a terror after the catch. Not sure if he becomes a starter in 2020, but could develop into one sooner than later.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
PFN (172. Detroit Lions: Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State - Pauline’s Ranking: #545 (RB43) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: N/A| RAS: 8.07. Pauline: Jason Huntley is a name not well known to those outside the scouting community. He’s a quick, creative ball carrier who works hard running on the inside while possessing the speed necessary to turn the perimeter. He turned in a terrific pro-day workout and will be a good third-down back at the next level. DiCecco: Lions make a surprising selection, opting to go with New Mexico State running back Jason Huntley. Huntley isn’t the biggest, but is extremely shifty and runs hard and has the elusiveness to turn the corner and run to daylight. Intriguing selection.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
PFN (197. Detroit Lions: John Penisini, DT, Utah - Pauline’s Ranking: #176 (DT16) | Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #214 | RAS: N/A. Pauline: John Penisini makes up for his lack of size and athleticism with fundamentally sound, intense play. He possesses the all-out mentality teammate Leki Fotu does not. He gets the most from his ability and I have no doubt Pensini will have a long NFL career. DiCecco: Like Bravvion Roy, John Penisini is another interior defender that is built low to the ground and plays with outstanding leverage. He gave blockers fits throughout the week with his play-strength and burst off the ball.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
Mid Afternoon Lions Links for Saturday 4-25-20
Articles:
Lions trade down to start Day 3 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-trade-nfl-draft-2020/3026292001/
Lions undecided on Jarrad Davis' fifth-year option, Joe Dahl healthy: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-undecided-jarrad-davis-fifth-year-option-joe-dahl-healthy/3026001001/
Undrafted Free Agency Will Be Chaos for Teams After Virtual Draft: https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/25/undrafted-free-agency-will-be-chaos-after-virtual-nfl-draft
Logan Sternberg:
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select G Logan Stenberg after trading back in fourth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-g-logan-stenberg-after-trading-back-in-fourth-round.html
4 things to know about Lions’ 4th-round pick Logan Stenberg: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-lions-4th-round-pick-logan-stenberg.html
Lions trade down, draft guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-trade-down-draft-guard-logan-stenberg
A CLOSER LOOK: Guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-guard-logan-stenberg
Detroit Lions take Kentucky OG Logan Stenberg to open their Day 3 picks of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3025872001/
New Lions OG Logan Stenberg is 'meanest prick in the draft': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-logan-stenberg-nfl-draft/3026692001/
Meet new Detroit Lions OG Logan Stenberg: They call him 'Mr. Nasty': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-kentucky-football/3026819001/
Instant reactions to Lions' Day 3 picks of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-day-3-reactions-analysis/3018190001/
Lions trade down to open fourth round, add Kentucky guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-trade-down-start-fourth-round-pick-up-extra-pick/3026192001/
Lions' fourth-round pick Logan Stenberg cites 'nastiness' as one of his best traits: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-trade-down-start-fourth-round-pick-up-extra-pick/3026192001/
Detroit Lions draft guard Logan Stenberg in fourth round, out of Kentucky: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-guard-logan-stenberg-in-fourth-round-out-of-kentucky/
Lions select Logan Stenberg with the 121st pick in the fourth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-logan-stenberg-with-the-121st-pick-in-the-fourth-round/
5 things to know about Logan Stenberg: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-logan-stenberg/
Instant analysis for the Lions selecting G Logan Stenberg: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-for-the-lions-selecting-g-logan-stenberg/
Logan Stenberg evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
Meet Logan Stenberg, Kentucky's mauler of an OL prospect: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/02/nfl-draft-2020-prospects-logan-stenberg-kentucky-interview/
Detroit Lions fourth-round NFL draft pick Logan Stenberg 'plays extremely nasty': https://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/2020/04/25/nfl-draft-scouting-report-lions-4th-round-pick-logan-stenberg/3003871001/
Detroit Lions Add Guard Logan Stenberg on Day 3 of NFL Draft: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-logan-stenberg
Stenberg Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky - A Grade. Logan Stenberg had some questions about him being able to block speed rushers, but he answered those questions at the Senior Bowl. I thought he may have improved his stock to go as high as the second round, but apparently not. The Lions won't complain, as they're getting a potential starter in the middle of the draft.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades4.php
Grading the Lions selection of offensive guard Logan Stenberg (Lions get a B+): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-selection-of-offensive-guard-logan-stenberg/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-logan-stenberg-grade/3026242001/
CBS (121. Lions: G Logan Stenberg, Kentucky
Grade: D+. Play-through-the-whistle mauler in the run game with minimal effectiveness (and experience) in pass protection. Heavy-footed and lacks lateral agility or recovery skill. Very one-dimensional player.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fourth-round-selection/
Day 3 Analysis:
Detroit Lions' 2020 NFL draft analysis for every pick (121. G Logan Sternberg - My take: After trading up to take a guard in the third round, Ohio State's Jonah Jackson, the Lions traded back in the fourth round to add another guard in Stenberg. Considering the glut of players at guard and competitions at both spots, the Lions are clearly looking for possible upgrades from Joe Dahl and Kenny Wiggins/Oday Aboushi. Stenberg was primarily a left guard at Kentucky, which could project to Dahl's position. It seems like it could mean Detroit is looking to get younger at the spot and potentially start two new guards in 2020. One other thought: It all but ensures Hal Vaitai is staying at right tackle.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Tracker (Stenberg: Pre-Draft Analysis
Stenberg is a nasty mauler with good size and strength. He takes great angles, he latches on with strong hands, and he's strong enough to generate push in the run game. He flashes a powerful punch and anchors well in pas pro. Stenberg has marginal athletic ability, and he struggles to mirror quick-twitch interior pass-rushers. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
PFF (PICK 121: DETROIT LIONS — IOL LOGAN STENBERG, KENTUCKY: This was a nice pickup by the Detroit Lions. Stenberg is a nasty run-blocker (perhaps too nasty, as he racked up 24 penalties over the last two years) and his 79.9 run-block grade reflects that. Throw in the fact he plays under control in pass protection and allowed only one pressure on 285 pass-block reps and you get pretty good bargain early on Day 3.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
NFL.com (121) Logan Stenberg, OG, Detroit Lions (via via Raiders): Do you think the Lions want to shore up their run game? They needed an upgrade on the inside of their offensive line, and Stenberg is an effective run blocker who will have a chance to earn early reps. Don't be shocked if Stenberg is the rookie favorite as he brings a tone-setting mean streak to the unit.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
CBS (121. Stenberg - Draft Scouting Report: Rating: 75. Strengths: Finishes blocks. Quick out of his stance. Strong, blocks with good leverage. Weaknesses: Gets called for a dumb penalty at least once a game. Inconsistent when sealing blocks. Taller than the average NFL guard): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/
PFN (121. Detroit Lions: Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky - Pauline’s Ranking: #122 (G4)| Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #162 | RAS: 6.18. Pauline: Another dominant, small area blocker comes off the board as the Lions select Logan Stenberg. The UK senior is great at what he does- annihilate defenders once he gets his hands on them. You can’t use him in motion but Stenberg will help the Lions running game. DiCecco: Lions add some nasty to the interior of their offensive line. Stenberg is one of my favorite Day 3 prospects, as I believe he has the football intelligence and nastiness to play at a high level for a long time. A feisty, blue-collar player that will be a fan favorite.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
Day 2 Analysis:
PFF's favorite picks from Day 2 of the 2020 NFL Draft (PICK NO. 75: DETROIT LIONS — EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (PFF Big Board Rank: 28th): Of all the players that we at PFF were high on this year, Okwara is the one who I can’t understand why he didn’t get more love. Usually, edge defenders who check in among the top 10 on Bruce Feldman’s ‘Freaks’ list get over-drafted in the NFL and not under-drafted the way we see Okwara. Although he’s undersized, Okwara is already one of the best bull-rushers in the entire draft class and can convert speed to power exceptionally well. He played only nine games this past season before breaking his leg but earned a 90.4 pass-rushing grade in those outings. PICK NO. 75: DETROIT LIONS — IOL JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE (PFF Big Board Rank: 40th): Jackson is quite easily my favorite pass-protecting guard prospect in the entire draft. On 460 pass-blocking snaps last season, Jackson allowed all of 10 pressures. Of those 10, only one came via a true one-on-one pass-rushing situation. This was nothing new, though, as he allowed even fewer pressures in 2018 (seven) on 398 pass-blocking snaps at right guard for Rutgers before transferring. He should be able to replace Graham Glasgow seamlessly for Detroit.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pff-favorite-picks-day-2
Video:
NFL Draft Day 2 Recap with Chris Spielman: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/nfl-draft-day-2-recap-with-chris-spielman
Lions trade down to start Day 3 of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-trade-nfl-draft-2020/3026292001/
Lions undecided on Jarrad Davis' fifth-year option, Joe Dahl healthy: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-undecided-jarrad-davis-fifth-year-option-joe-dahl-healthy/3026001001/
Undrafted Free Agency Will Be Chaos for Teams After Virtual Draft: https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/25/undrafted-free-agency-will-be-chaos-after-virtual-nfl-draft
Logan Sternberg:
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select G Logan Stenberg after trading back in fourth round: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-g-logan-stenberg-after-trading-back-in-fourth-round.html
4 things to know about Lions’ 4th-round pick Logan Stenberg: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/4-things-to-know-about-lions-4th-round-pick-logan-stenberg.html
Lions trade down, draft guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-trade-down-draft-guard-logan-stenberg
A CLOSER LOOK: Guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-guard-logan-stenberg
Detroit Lions take Kentucky OG Logan Stenberg to open their Day 3 picks of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020/3025872001/
New Lions OG Logan Stenberg is 'meanest prick in the draft': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-logan-stenberg-nfl-draft/3026692001/
Meet new Detroit Lions OG Logan Stenberg: They call him 'Mr. Nasty': https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-kentucky-football/3026819001/
Instant reactions to Lions' Day 3 picks of NFL draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-day-3-reactions-analysis/3018190001/
Lions trade down to open fourth round, add Kentucky guard Logan Stenberg: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-trade-down-start-fourth-round-pick-up-extra-pick/3026192001/
Lions' fourth-round pick Logan Stenberg cites 'nastiness' as one of his best traits: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/lions-trade-down-start-fourth-round-pick-up-extra-pick/3026192001/
Detroit Lions draft guard Logan Stenberg in fourth round, out of Kentucky: https://lionslowdown.com/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-draft-guard-logan-stenberg-in-fourth-round-out-of-kentucky/
Lions select Logan Stenberg with the 121st pick in the fourth round: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/lions-select-logan-stenberg-with-the-121st-pick-in-the-fourth-round/
5 things to know about Logan Stenberg: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/5-things-to-know-about-logan-stenberg/
Instant analysis for the Lions selecting G Logan Stenberg: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/instant-analysis-for-the-lions-selecting-g-logan-stenberg/
Logan Stenberg evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/logan-stenberg-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
Meet Logan Stenberg, Kentucky's mauler of an OL prospect: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/02/nfl-draft-2020-prospects-logan-stenberg-kentucky-interview/
Detroit Lions fourth-round NFL draft pick Logan Stenberg 'plays extremely nasty': https://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/2020/04/25/nfl-draft-scouting-report-lions-4th-round-pick-logan-stenberg/3003871001/
Detroit Lions Add Guard Logan Stenberg on Day 3 of NFL Draft: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-draft-logan-stenberg
Stenberg Grades:
Walterfootball (Detroit Lions: Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky - A Grade. Logan Stenberg had some questions about him being able to block speed rushers, but he answered those questions at the Senior Bowl. I thought he may have improved his stock to go as high as the second round, but apparently not. The Lions won't complain, as they're getting a potential starter in the middle of the draft.): https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades4.php
Grading the Lions selection of offensive guard Logan Stenberg (Lions get a B+): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/grading-the-lions-selection-of-offensive-guard-logan-stenberg/
Freep Carlos Monarrez (Lions get a B): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-2020-logan-stenberg-grade/3026242001/
CBS (121. Lions: G Logan Stenberg, Kentucky
Grade: D+. Play-through-the-whistle mauler in the run game with minimal effectiveness (and experience) in pass protection. Heavy-footed and lacks lateral agility or recovery skill. Very one-dimensional player.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-grades-and-analysis-for-every-fourth-round-selection/
Day 3 Analysis:
Detroit Lions' 2020 NFL draft analysis for every pick (121. G Logan Sternberg - My take: After trading up to take a guard in the third round, Ohio State's Jonah Jackson, the Lions traded back in the fourth round to add another guard in Stenberg. Considering the glut of players at guard and competitions at both spots, the Lions are clearly looking for possible upgrades from Joe Dahl and Kenny Wiggins/Oday Aboushi. Stenberg was primarily a left guard at Kentucky, which could project to Dahl's position. It seems like it could mean Detroit is looking to get younger at the spot and potentially start two new guards in 2020. One other thought: It all but ensures Hal Vaitai is staying at right tackle.): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36418/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-draft-analysis-for-every-pick
ESPN Tracker (Stenberg: Pre-Draft Analysis
Stenberg is a nasty mauler with good size and strength. He takes great angles, he latches on with strong hands, and he's strong enough to generate push in the run game. He flashes a powerful punch and anchors well in pas pro. Stenberg has marginal athletic ability, and he struggles to mirror quick-twitch interior pass-rushers. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
PFF (PICK 121: DETROIT LIONS — IOL LOGAN STENBERG, KENTUCKY: This was a nice pickup by the Detroit Lions. Stenberg is a nasty run-blocker (perhaps too nasty, as he racked up 24 penalties over the last two years) and his 79.9 run-block grade reflects that. Throw in the fact he plays under control in pass protection and allowed only one pressure on 285 pass-block reps and you get pretty good bargain early on Day 3.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pffs-live-analysis-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
NFL.com (121) Logan Stenberg, OG, Detroit Lions (via via Raiders): Do you think the Lions want to shore up their run game? They needed an upgrade on the inside of their offensive line, and Stenberg is an effective run blocker who will have a chance to earn early reps. Don't be shocked if Stenberg is the rookie favorite as he brings a tone-setting mean streak to the unit.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001111401/article/2020-nfl-draft-pickbypick-analysis-for-rounds-45
CBS (121. Stenberg - Draft Scouting Report: Rating: 75. Strengths: Finishes blocks. Quick out of his stance. Strong, blocks with good leverage. Weaknesses: Gets called for a dumb penalty at least once a game. Inconsistent when sealing blocks. Taller than the average NFL guard): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/draft-tracker/
PFN (121. Detroit Lions: Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky - Pauline’s Ranking: #122 (G4)| Scouting Report - PFN Consensus: #162 | RAS: 6.18. Pauline: Another dominant, small area blocker comes off the board as the Lions select Logan Stenberg. The UK senior is great at what he does- annihilate defenders once he gets his hands on them. You can’t use him in motion but Stenberg will help the Lions running game. DiCecco: Lions add some nasty to the interior of their offensive line. Stenberg is one of my favorite Day 3 prospects, as I believe he has the football intelligence and nastiness to play at a high level for a long time. A feisty, blue-collar player that will be a fan favorite.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/day-3-2020-nfl-draft-live-blog-pauline/
Day 2 Analysis:
PFF's favorite picks from Day 2 of the 2020 NFL Draft (PICK NO. 75: DETROIT LIONS — EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (PFF Big Board Rank: 28th): Of all the players that we at PFF were high on this year, Okwara is the one who I can’t understand why he didn’t get more love. Usually, edge defenders who check in among the top 10 on Bruce Feldman’s ‘Freaks’ list get over-drafted in the NFL and not under-drafted the way we see Okwara. Although he’s undersized, Okwara is already one of the best bull-rushers in the entire draft class and can convert speed to power exceptionally well. He played only nine games this past season before breaking his leg but earned a 90.4 pass-rushing grade in those outings. PICK NO. 75: DETROIT LIONS — IOL JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE (PFF Big Board Rank: 40th): Jackson is quite easily my favorite pass-protecting guard prospect in the entire draft. On 460 pass-blocking snaps last season, Jackson allowed all of 10 pressures. Of those 10, only one came via a true one-on-one pass-rushing situation. This was nothing new, though, as he allowed even fewer pressures in 2018 (seven) on 398 pass-blocking snaps at right guard for Rutgers before transferring. He should be able to replace Graham Glasgow seamlessly for Detroit.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pff-favorite-picks-day-2
Video:
NFL Draft Day 2 Recap with Chris Spielman: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/nfl-draft-day-2-recap-with-chris-spielman
Early Afternoon Lions Links for Saturday 4-25-20
Articles:
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions add fifth-round pick in trade down with Raiders: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-add-fifth-round-pick-in-trade-down-with-raiders.html
Detroit Lions undecided on whether to pick up Jarrad Davis’ fifth-year option: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/detroit-lions-undecided-on-whether-to-pick-up-jarrad-davis-fifth-year-option.html
D'Andre Swift selection shows Lions' shifting priorities away from the 'Patriot Way': https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/dandre-swift-selection-shows-lions-shifting-priorities-away-from-the-patriot-way/
D'Andre Swift:
Detroit Lions end D’Andre Swift’s wait early in second round of NFL Draft: https://www.blufftontoday.com/sports/20200425/detroit-lions-end-dandre-swifts-wait-early-in-second-round-of-nfl-draft
Julian Okwara:
Julian Okwara evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/jonah-jackson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
Watch: Julian Okwara to older brother Romeo, "We about to be roommates": https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/watch-julian-okwara-to-older-brother-romeo-we-about-to-be-roommates/
New Lion Julian Okwara Is Thrilled to Be in Detroit: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/julian-okwara-thrilled-to-be-in-detroit
Jonah Jackson:
Jonah Jackson evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/jonah-jackson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
New Detroit OG Jonah Jackson Built Rapport with Lions at Senior Bowl: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jonah-jackson-built-rapport-with-lions
Day 2 grades:
2020 NFL Draft grades, Day 2: Lions’ picks of Swift, Okwara, Jackson draw high marks (35. Swift: C+ -- “Swift ran through huge lanes at Georgia. Elusiveness lacking. Thick frame with speed. Premier receiving RB in the class.” 67. Okwara: A- -- “Okwara is a long, super-powerful edge rusher with first-round flashes because of his bull rush and occasional pass-rush moves. Just needs to improve his pass-rush plans. Fluid athlete. Good add for Detroit to pair with Trey Flowers.” 75. Jackson: A -- "Not a high-level athlete but superb balance and recovery skills. Awesome hand work. Constantly resets his hands in pass pro. Doesn't look the part but just gets the job done. Detroit had a clear need on the interior up front."): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-grades-day-2-lions-picks-of-swift-okwara-jackson-draw-high-marks.html
2020 NFL Draft Day 3:
2020 NFL draft: Wide receivers highlight some of best fits still there for Detroit Lions on Day 3: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-wide-receivers-highlight-some-of-best-fits-still-there-for-detroit-lions-on-day-3.html
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-prospects-who-could-interest-lions-on-day-3-x0452
2020 NFL Draft: Lions remaining needs heading into day 3: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/2020-nfl-draft-lions-remaining-needs-heading-into-day-3/
Day 3 NFL Draft Targets for the Lions: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-day-3-draft-targets
2020 NFL draft: Detroit Lions add fifth-round pick in trade down with Raiders: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-add-fifth-round-pick-in-trade-down-with-raiders.html
Detroit Lions undecided on whether to pick up Jarrad Davis’ fifth-year option: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/detroit-lions-undecided-on-whether-to-pick-up-jarrad-davis-fifth-year-option.html
D'Andre Swift selection shows Lions' shifting priorities away from the 'Patriot Way': https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/dandre-swift-selection-shows-lions-shifting-priorities-away-from-the-patriot-way/
D'Andre Swift:
Detroit Lions end D’Andre Swift’s wait early in second round of NFL Draft: https://www.blufftontoday.com/sports/20200425/detroit-lions-end-dandre-swifts-wait-early-in-second-round-of-nfl-draft
Julian Okwara:
Julian Okwara evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/jonah-jackson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
Watch: Julian Okwara to older brother Romeo, "We about to be roommates": https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/watch-julian-okwara-to-older-brother-romeo-we-about-to-be-roommates/
New Lion Julian Okwara Is Thrilled to Be in Detroit: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/julian-okwara-thrilled-to-be-in-detroit
Jonah Jackson:
Jonah Jackson evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/jonah-jackson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides/
New Detroit OG Jonah Jackson Built Rapport with Lions at Senior Bowl: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jonah-jackson-built-rapport-with-lions
Day 2 grades:
2020 NFL Draft grades, Day 2: Lions’ picks of Swift, Okwara, Jackson draw high marks (35. Swift: C+ -- “Swift ran through huge lanes at Georgia. Elusiveness lacking. Thick frame with speed. Premier receiving RB in the class.” 67. Okwara: A- -- “Okwara is a long, super-powerful edge rusher with first-round flashes because of his bull rush and occasional pass-rush moves. Just needs to improve his pass-rush plans. Fluid athlete. Good add for Detroit to pair with Trey Flowers.” 75. Jackson: A -- "Not a high-level athlete but superb balance and recovery skills. Awesome hand work. Constantly resets his hands in pass pro. Doesn't look the part but just gets the job done. Detroit had a clear need on the interior up front."): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-grades-day-2-lions-picks-of-swift-okwara-jackson-draw-high-marks.html
2020 NFL Draft Day 3:
2020 NFL draft: Wide receivers highlight some of best fits still there for Detroit Lions on Day 3: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-wide-receivers-highlight-some-of-best-fits-still-there-for-detroit-lions-on-day-3.html
TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who could interest Lions on Day 3: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-prospects-who-could-interest-lions-on-day-3-x0452
2020 NFL Draft: Lions remaining needs heading into day 3: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/25/2020-nfl-draft-lions-remaining-needs-heading-into-day-3/
Day 3 NFL Draft Targets for the Lions: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-day-3-draft-targets
G Jonah Jackson
Scouting Reports:
OSU Profile: https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/roster/jonah-jackson/
NFL.com: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/d-andre-swift-highlights
Draftwire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/31/2020-nfl-draft-jonah-jackson-scouting-report/
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jonah-jackson/31Cm72gd0b
PFN Tony Pauline (Jonah Jackson, G - Career Snapshot: Graduate transfer from Rutgers who started one season with the Scarlet Knights before he joined Ohio State and started his lone season with the Buckeyes. Earned Third Team All-America honors as a senior in 2019. Named Honorable Mention All-Big Ten as a junior. Started five games in 2017 before he was sidelined by an undisclosed injury. Positives: Large, intelligent blocker who is best in a small area. Mostly blocks with proper leverage and pad level and stays square. Strong, controls opponents at the point of attack, and keeps his head on a swivel. Sets with an incredibly wide base, quickly gets into blocks and easily handles one-on-one assignments. Very effective with his hands, jolts defenders with an explosive punch and works blocks. Negatives: Cannot slide in space and displays limited range. Stiff and struggles to pick up stunts and blitzes. Ineffective in motion. Analysis: Jackson made a wise choice to transfer from Rutgers to Ohio State, as he watched his draft stock take off last season. He has athletic and agility limitations, but Jackson could be an effective backup and eventually develop into a starter in the proper system.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-ten-scouting-reports-2020-nfl-draft/9/
Rankings:
Overall:
FTW (32. Jackson: Jackson is a little on the older side after spending five years at Ohio State. Versatility is one of his biggest selling points. He can play either guard spot and center. Jackson may not be a people-mover in the run game, but he can be a blocker on the move and rarely gets outsmarted in pass protection. For an athlete of Jackson’s caliber, the Combine numbers were a bit disappointing but his athleticism shows up on tape. He should start from Day 1. NFL comparison: Ali Marpet): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-50-prospects
2020 NFL Draft: Final PFF Top 250 Big Board (40. Jackson: Jackson has shown time and time again he has everything it takes to be a quality pass protector at the next level. Don't expect him to move the needle too much in the run game, but he'll be more than adequate in a zone heavy scheme.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-final-pff-top-250-big-board
Draft rankings: Chris Trapasso Top 250 Big Board (60. Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-final-top-250-big-board-with-21-receivers-in-the-top-100/
CBS (79. Jonah Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
2020 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Josh Edwards Top 250 big board ends as it started, with Chase Young on top (79. Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-250-big-board-ends-as-it-started-with-chase-young-on-top/
Norris: Top 150 NFL Draft Board (83. G Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/norris-top-150-nfl-draft-board
2020 NFL Draft Big Board: The Draft Wire 300 (85. Jackson): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-big-board-top-300/
Rotoworld Analytics Rankings (86. Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=3
Draft Tek (97. Jackson): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Big-Board/Top-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2020-Page-1.asp
Top 103 Prospects For The 2020 NFL Draft (97. G Jackson): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3254/Top-103-Prospects-For-The-2020-NFL-Draft
SI Top 255 Big Board 3.0 (105. Jackson): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/19/draft-big-board-updated-top-255-prospects
ESPN (109. Jackson: Jackson is a versatile offensive lineman with good size, length and upper-body strength. He's a strong run-blocker who plays with an edge. He anchors well, but he doesn't bend well, he lunges at times and there's room for improvement when it comes to his hand-to-hand combat skills in pass pro. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (113. Jackson): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
DJ's final prospect rankings: Who made top 150? (136. Jackson): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110012/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-150-prospects-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
Draft Countdown (137. Jackson): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-top-overall-rankings/
THOR 500: NYSTROM'S BIG BOARD (182. Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thor-500-nystroms-big-board-0
Position:
PFF (2. G Jackson: We are always going to love some pass protectors, and Jackson is as advanced in pass pro as any interior lineman in this class. You may know him better as the Rutgers player who actually graded well back in 2018. For his career, he's allowed only one lone sack or hit on 1,020 pass-blocking snaps, which speaks to arguably his greatest trait — not losing quickly. Even when he does allow pressure, Jackson is almost always still holding on for dear life and riding guys past the pocket. His hand usage is exceptional, and he plays with a balance unmatched in the draft class.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-interior-offensive-linemen
Touchdown Wire's Position Rankings (2. G Jackson): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/18/scouting-breakdown-the-11-best-interior-offensive-linemen-in-the-nfl-draft/2/
ESPN (3. G Jackson): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (3. G Jackson): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Draft Tek (5. G Jackson): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Position-Rankings/Top-College-Offensive-Guards-2020-NFL-Draft.asp
Draftwire CB Rankings (6. G Jackson): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-interior-offensive-line-cesar-ruiz-lloyd-cushenberry-solomon-kindley/
Draft Countdown (6. G Jackson): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-offensive-guard-rankings/
Rotoworld Analytics Position Rankings (10. G Jackson: 23yo Ohio St OG, 11th percentile athlete): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=1
Thor's G Rankings (13. Jackson (SPARQ percentile: 54.5, RAS: 6.38, Comp: Jake Grove): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-interior-ol-rankings
Walterfootball Position Rankings (15. G Jackson: 4/21/20: Jackson was decent for Ohio State in 2019, although he had some penalty issues. Team sources are lukewarm on him and all of the Ohio State offensive linemen for the NFL. Jackson did not impress at the Senior Bowl and showed that he has very short arms. 8/17/19: Jackson is a Rutgers transfer who should help an Ohio State line that lost a lot of experience to the 2019 NFL Draft. Jackson received some Big Ten honors before deciding to transfer for his senior year. Jackson played mostly guard at Rutgers but also took some snaps at center. That versatility and experience could help him to rise as a senior.): https://walterfootball.com/draft2020OG.php
CBS (16. OL Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/offensive-linemen
Articles:
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's High-Floor/Low-Ceiling Team (LG – JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE: Jackson’s technique is already this good. He can play in the NFL tomorrow and not look out of place in pass protection. I’m not sure how many other guys I can say that about. Of his 10 pressures allowed last season, only one came in a one-on-one pass-blocking situation.) (4-17-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-high-floor-low-ceiling-team
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's All Trump Card Team (RG – OHIO STATE – JONAH JACKSON (BALANCE): At a position where holding on for dear life is paramount, having balance like Jackson’s makes life a lot easier. You’ll be hard-pressed to find many reps over the past couple of seasons where Jackson ends up eating turf. That’s rare with the violence of the collisions that occur in the trenches.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-all-trump-card-team
10 biggest sleepers in the 2020 NFL draft class (1. G JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE: He may not have the ideal body type or the quickest feet or the most powerful frame, but Jonah Jackson is a broken record in pass protection. He ends more pass pro reps at the line of scrimmage than any other guard in the draft class. His short sets are impeccable, and he’s so quick to get his hands on guys and lock them up. Jackson won 58% of his reps in the one-on-ones in Mobile despite splitting his time between all three interior positions.) (3-25-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-10-biggest-sleepers-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
Trust the tape on these prospects after less-than-stellar NFL Combine performances (OHIO STATE IOL JONAH JACKSON: Jackson’s 5.23 40, 7.83 three-cone and 5.02 shuttle were all below average times. The only redeeming drill Jackson had was his 28 bench press reps. That being said, his technique is on another level from any other interior lineman in this class. His hand usage in pass pro is second to none, and few positions have a history of bad athletes succeeding in the NFL quite like the interior offensive line.) (3-4-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-trust-the-tape-on-these-prospects-after-less-than-stellar-nfl-combine-performances
5 whose bad week won't hurt stock (Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Jackson isn't regarded close to the same as Epenesa or Reagor, so he's a different type of pick for this article. His 2019 film at Ohio State -- after transferring from Rutgers of all places -- is truly, outstandingly boring. And boring is good for offensive linemen. He plays much higher than most guards and doesn't have the squatty, fire hydrant of a frame we typically envision at the position. Jackson thrives thanks to awesome balance, a sturdy anchor, and two vice grips for hands. His 40-yard dash of 5.23 placed him in the 54th percentile historically among interior offensive linemen, and his 7.83 3-cone equates to the 49th percentile at the position. But those who like Jackson as a prospect -- like me -- weren't ready to bury Jackson if he didn't rock in Indianapolis. He won't be for every team, and that's fine. He's a lower-level athlete for the guard spot with tremendous fundamentals who overachieved in Columbus and has the technique to do so in the NFL. ) (3-3-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-why-the-combine-for-jalen-reagor-a-j-epenesa-and-other-prospects-shouldnt-hurt-their-stock/
Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Jonah Jackson runs official 5.23 second 40-yard dash (2-24-20): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap3000001104240/Jonah-Jackson-runs-official-5-23-second-40-yard-dash-at-2020-combine
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: Offensive line (Jonah Jackson, Ohio State. Suggested by: Zack Moran and Sonja Greenfield. Between his time at Maryland and Ohio State, Jackson started five games at center, 11 at right guard, and 13 at left guard, giving him multi-positional appeal. He is significantly more polished as a pass protector, handling one-on-ones and switches easily, but his lack of impact as a run blocker could cause him to start his career as a position flexible reserve.) (2-21-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/21/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-offensive-line/
2020 NFL Combine: Offensive Guard, Center Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (12. Jonah Jackson, Ohio State 6-4, 310 (C/OG) (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Able to play anywhere in the interior, he can move well and he’ll fit for the faster-paced teams that like to wing the ball all over the place. If it’s possible to show pure power in this workout, he has to do it.) (2-19-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-offensive-guard-center-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
A Senior Bowl prospect for every round for Lions (Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Unless the price tag ends up coming in much lower than expected, it's looking likely the Lions won't re-sign Graham Glasgow. That leaves a significant hole up front, and if the team doesn't address it with a cheaper option in free agency or in a trade, they'll probably need to spend an early-round pick on an interior blocker. A graduate transfer from Rutgers, Jackson thrived in his one season with the Buckeyes and added some versatility to the resume, flipping to the left side of the line in 2019. His footwork and balance are top notch and he's allowed fewer than 10 pass-rush pressures each of the past three seasons. ) (1-26-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/01/26/2020-senior-bowl-prospect-every-round-nfl-draft-detroit-lions/4580927002/
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Tuesday - One of my personal favorite players, Jonah Jackson was stellar today. He was consistently good in 1v1s, and was strong in team drills. Jackson doesn’t have the functional athleticism to be an early Day 2 pick. However, if a team is able to draft him on Day 3, they’re getting an absolute steal. Jonah Jackson was one of the five best linemen in Mobile today. Wednesday - Jackson has continued to prove he’s one of the top interior linemen in the Mobile, and maybe in this class. He’s excellent in pass protection, and he can absolutely move people in the run game. Thursday - Jackson wasn’t as strong as he has been, but he had by no means a “bad day.” He was still strong in pass pro and continued to move people off the line of scrimmage. Not his best day in Mobile, but was still one of the top OL here. Analysis - Jonah Jackson proved exactly who I thought he was – a top IOL prospect with elite play strength, but some athletic limitations. Jackson was a wall in pass protection this week and moved people in the run game. However, asking him to pull and get out on screens is not his forte. Strong week overall for the from Buckeye, as he’ll likely enter the draft as on of my top 5 iOL.(1-24-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/
Biggest risers and fallers at the 2020 Senior Bowl (Risers - Jonah Jackson, OG, Ohio State
Jackson may have moved all the way up to OG1 with his performance in Mobile. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound guard is a bit top-heavy, but his balance is absurd. He was near-flawless in one-on-one drills and also impressed in team drills as a run blocker. He should be in the first-round conversation when it’s all said and done.) (1-24-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-senior-bowl-risers-fallers-2020
Ranking the 50 best 2020 NFL draft prospects in the College Football Playoff (42. JONAH JACKSON, OL, OHIO STATE. Year: Senior. Jackson has been one of the best pass-protecting guards in the country over the past two years with only 17 pressures allowed over that span. He has some balance concerns though as he ends up on the turf far more often than you'd like from an offensive lineman.) (12-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-ranking-best-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-in-the-college-football-playoff
Biggest takeaways from a week of Senior Bowl practices (39. Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Jackson firmly put himself into the conversation for PFF’s OG1. He doesn’t have the raw power that our current top guard — Fresno State’s Netane Muti — possesses, but he is the most technically sound pass protector in the class. He’s a sure-fire top-50 player on our board.) (1-24-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-senior-bowl-takeaways-2020
Senior Bowl: Sleepers who shined (Jonah Jackson, IOL, Ohio State: The Rutgers transfer was a brick wall for Justin Fields and J.K. Dobbins in 2019, and that sturdy, fundamentally sound play continued in Mobile. At over 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds with long arms for the guard spot, Jackson gets low to win the leverage battle from the jump, is plenty strong in his upper half and has just enough athleticism to slide to stop counter moves. ) (1-24-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2020-nebraskas-lamar-jackson-lsus-stephen-sullivan-among-draft-sleepers-who-shined-in-mobile/
2020 Senior Bowl Day 2 Practice Notes: KJ Hill, Jonah Jackson and Troy Pride Jr. all shine bright (Ohio State OG Jonah Jackson
Jackson might be the only offensive lineman in attendance this week to not have a convincing loss in the one-on-ones. His independent hand usage has been nothing short of elite this week. The ability to latch and not let go is something that you love to see from an interior lineman. His build may not be the most impressive, but the tape is.) (1-22-20): https://www.pff.com/news/2020-senior-bowl-day-2-practice-notes-kj-hill-jonah-jackson-troy-pride-jr
Senior Bowl Offensive Linemen (Jonah Jackson, Ohio State (G): It’s not often a player from Rutgers can grad transfer to a program like Ohio State and earn a starting spot, but Jonah Jackson proved to be a unique case. A 6-foot-4, 305-pounder, Jackson was initially Rutgers’ starting center in 2017. He switched over to guard in his final season with the Scarlet Knights in 2018 and continued to play guard for the Buckeyes in 2019. Jackson, in just his first season in Columbus, helped running back J.K. Dobbins break Big Ten rushing records and quarterback Justin Fields lead a near-Heisman campaign. Jackson also helped his case through being dependable and available. According to Dan Hope of Eleven Warriors, Jackson tied for the lead in offensive snaps played for the Buckeyes in 2019. The offensive line battled injuries all year, especially at tackle, but Jackson remained a steady presence up front. In terms of his skill set, Jackson wins through passable movement in space and a great understanding of how to operate at the second level. Jackson can work across the line to double team then climb up to the second level and pick off a linebacker, just as its drawn up in the playbook. Though he is not exactly an elite athlete, he is plenty agile enough when considering how well he processes where he needs to be at any given time. Strength and anchor will not be Jackson’s best talking points, but he wouldn’t be the first zone offensive linemen that would be true of. It’s tough for offensive linemen to be truly good in both areas, and even just being good at one should make Jackson a viable backup at the next level. Zone teams like the Vikings, 49ers, Rams, and Packers should be eyeing Jackson when Day 3 of the NFL Draft rolls around. ) (1-21-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/senior-bowl-offensive-linemen
Big-10 Senior Bowl players preview: Hidden talents set to emerge (OL Jonah Jackson, Ohio State: Jonah Jackson is maybe the most underrated interior lineman in the country. He lacks elite athletic ability, but it doesn’t seem to affect him in space. He’s an absolute mauler but can be too eager to engage defenders, getting ahead of himself and outright missing. In pass protection, he’s constantly looking for work and can be a nasty secondary blocker. His feet can be slow, but it seems to be more technique based than on athletic limitations. With a strong OL coach to clean up his game, Jackson could be an above-average starter at the next level. Expect at least a pancake or two throughout the week. ) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-10-senior-bowl-players-preview-hidden-talents-set-to-emerge/
PFF 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Preview: players to watch, draft implications, schedule, team rosters and more (Jonah Jackson has been one of the more consistent offensive guards in college football. In the entirety of his collegiate career, Jackson has allowed 25 total pressures on 1,020 pass-block snaps with only one being a sack and zero total hits on the quarterback. Jackson transferred to Ohio State this past year from Rutgers and improved his run-blocking from a 70.3 grade to a 77.8 mark. He was the fifth most valuable left guard in college football in WAA this past year, but he has shown in the past that he is more than capable of playing anywhere on the interior.) (1-20-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-preview-players-to-watch-draft-implications-schedule-team-rosters
Building the best team from the College Football Playoff (Ohio State — Wyatt Davis, Jonah Jackson, Josh Myers: Another close race for this one, the trio of Davis, Jackson and Myers edges out Damien Lewis, Adrian Magee and Lloyd Cushenberry of LSU on the back of Myers’ solid play at center. Davis is one of the nation’s best guards, and Jackson has rounded into form late in the campaign after transferring from Rutgers this past offseason. Together, Davis and Jackson have allowed just one sack or hit all season long on a combined 807 pass-blocking snaps, and both have dominated in the run game, too. Myers, who made it on our list of top underclassmen in the playoff, has been just as strong, allowing 14 pressures on 404 pass-blocking snaps while putting forth well-above-average grades in the run game.) (12-24-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-building-best-team-from-college-football-playoff
College Football: 2019 PFF All-Big Ten Team (42. JONAH JACKSON, OL, OHIO STATE. Year: Senior. Jackson has been one of the best pass-protecting guards in the country over the past two years with only 17 pressures allowed over that span. He has some balance concerns though as he ends up on the turf far more often than you'd like from an offensive lineman.) (12-2-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-big-ten-team
Tony Pauline’s Week 14 Risers and Sliders: Auburn’s Derrick Brown leads list of risers (Risers - Jonah Jackson/G/Ohio State: Jackson is a player I’ve mentioned several times during the CFB game day blog this season and his performance during the Buckeyes thrashing of Michigan was so dominant he deserved to make the risers list. Jackson blew open holes on the left side of the offensive line, making J.K. Dobbins’s job much easier all day. He’s another small area lineman who will be a steal on the draft’s final day.) (12-2-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-week-14-risers-sliders-auburn-derrick-brown/
College Football Week 14 Eckrich Team of the Week (OFFENSIVE GUARD - Jonah Jackson, Ohio State: Finishing the regular season with his best performance yet, Jackson had not only the best overall game grade of his Ohio State career but in his four years as a collegiate offensive lineman. He allowed one hurry on 32 pass-blocking snaps and was second among all guards in run-blocking grade. Against a formidable Michigan front who was second in pressure percentage entering the game, Jackson's efforts were vital to Ohio State's success in the passing game.) (11-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-14-eckrich-team-of-the-week
OSU Profile: https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/roster/jonah-jackson/
NFL.com: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/d-andre-swift-highlights
Draftwire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/31/2020-nfl-draft-jonah-jackson-scouting-report/
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jonah-jackson/31Cm72gd0b
PFN Tony Pauline (Jonah Jackson, G - Career Snapshot: Graduate transfer from Rutgers who started one season with the Scarlet Knights before he joined Ohio State and started his lone season with the Buckeyes. Earned Third Team All-America honors as a senior in 2019. Named Honorable Mention All-Big Ten as a junior. Started five games in 2017 before he was sidelined by an undisclosed injury. Positives: Large, intelligent blocker who is best in a small area. Mostly blocks with proper leverage and pad level and stays square. Strong, controls opponents at the point of attack, and keeps his head on a swivel. Sets with an incredibly wide base, quickly gets into blocks and easily handles one-on-one assignments. Very effective with his hands, jolts defenders with an explosive punch and works blocks. Negatives: Cannot slide in space and displays limited range. Stiff and struggles to pick up stunts and blitzes. Ineffective in motion. Analysis: Jackson made a wise choice to transfer from Rutgers to Ohio State, as he watched his draft stock take off last season. He has athletic and agility limitations, but Jackson could be an effective backup and eventually develop into a starter in the proper system.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-ten-scouting-reports-2020-nfl-draft/9/
Rankings:
Overall:
FTW (32. Jackson: Jackson is a little on the older side after spending five years at Ohio State. Versatility is one of his biggest selling points. He can play either guard spot and center. Jackson may not be a people-mover in the run game, but he can be a blocker on the move and rarely gets outsmarted in pass protection. For an athlete of Jackson’s caliber, the Combine numbers were a bit disappointing but his athleticism shows up on tape. He should start from Day 1. NFL comparison: Ali Marpet): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-50-prospects
2020 NFL Draft: Final PFF Top 250 Big Board (40. Jackson: Jackson has shown time and time again he has everything it takes to be a quality pass protector at the next level. Don't expect him to move the needle too much in the run game, but he'll be more than adequate in a zone heavy scheme.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-final-pff-top-250-big-board
Draft rankings: Chris Trapasso Top 250 Big Board (60. Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-final-top-250-big-board-with-21-receivers-in-the-top-100/
CBS (79. Jonah Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
2020 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Josh Edwards Top 250 big board ends as it started, with Chase Young on top (79. Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-250-big-board-ends-as-it-started-with-chase-young-on-top/
Norris: Top 150 NFL Draft Board (83. G Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/norris-top-150-nfl-draft-board
2020 NFL Draft Big Board: The Draft Wire 300 (85. Jackson): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-big-board-top-300/
Rotoworld Analytics Rankings (86. Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=3
Draft Tek (97. Jackson): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Big-Board/Top-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2020-Page-1.asp
Top 103 Prospects For The 2020 NFL Draft (97. G Jackson): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3254/Top-103-Prospects-For-The-2020-NFL-Draft
SI Top 255 Big Board 3.0 (105. Jackson): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/19/draft-big-board-updated-top-255-prospects
ESPN (109. Jackson: Jackson is a versatile offensive lineman with good size, length and upper-body strength. He's a strong run-blocker who plays with an edge. He anchors well, but he doesn't bend well, he lunges at times and there's room for improvement when it comes to his hand-to-hand combat skills in pass pro. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (113. Jackson): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
DJ's final prospect rankings: Who made top 150? (136. Jackson): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110012/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-150-prospects-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
Draft Countdown (137. Jackson): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-top-overall-rankings/
Draft rankings: Ryan Wilson Top 250 (156. G Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-two-receivers-crack-top-10-two-running-backs-in-top-25-and-entire-top-250/
THOR 500: NYSTROM'S BIG BOARD (182. Jackson): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thor-500-nystroms-big-board-0
PFF (2. G Jackson: We are always going to love some pass protectors, and Jackson is as advanced in pass pro as any interior lineman in this class. You may know him better as the Rutgers player who actually graded well back in 2018. For his career, he's allowed only one lone sack or hit on 1,020 pass-blocking snaps, which speaks to arguably his greatest trait — not losing quickly. Even when he does allow pressure, Jackson is almost always still holding on for dear life and riding guys past the pocket. His hand usage is exceptional, and he plays with a balance unmatched in the draft class.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-interior-offensive-linemen
Touchdown Wire's Position Rankings (2. G Jackson): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/18/scouting-breakdown-the-11-best-interior-offensive-linemen-in-the-nfl-draft/2/
ESPN (3. G Jackson): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (3. G Jackson): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Draft Tek (5. G Jackson): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Position-Rankings/Top-College-Offensive-Guards-2020-NFL-Draft.asp
Draftwire CB Rankings (6. G Jackson): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-interior-offensive-line-cesar-ruiz-lloyd-cushenberry-solomon-kindley/
Draft Countdown (6. G Jackson): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-offensive-guard-rankings/
Rotoworld Analytics Position Rankings (10. G Jackson: 23yo Ohio St OG, 11th percentile athlete): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=1
Thor's G Rankings (13. Jackson (SPARQ percentile: 54.5, RAS: 6.38, Comp: Jake Grove): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-interior-ol-rankings
Walterfootball Position Rankings (15. G Jackson: 4/21/20: Jackson was decent for Ohio State in 2019, although he had some penalty issues. Team sources are lukewarm on him and all of the Ohio State offensive linemen for the NFL. Jackson did not impress at the Senior Bowl and showed that he has very short arms. 8/17/19: Jackson is a Rutgers transfer who should help an Ohio State line that lost a lot of experience to the 2019 NFL Draft. Jackson received some Big Ten honors before deciding to transfer for his senior year. Jackson played mostly guard at Rutgers but also took some snaps at center. That versatility and experience could help him to rise as a senior.): https://walterfootball.com/draft2020OG.php
CBS (16. OL Jackson): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/offensive-linemen
Articles:
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's High-Floor/Low-Ceiling Team (LG – JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE: Jackson’s technique is already this good. He can play in the NFL tomorrow and not look out of place in pass protection. I’m not sure how many other guys I can say that about. Of his 10 pressures allowed last season, only one came in a one-on-one pass-blocking situation.) (4-17-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-high-floor-low-ceiling-team
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's All Trump Card Team (RG – OHIO STATE – JONAH JACKSON (BALANCE): At a position where holding on for dear life is paramount, having balance like Jackson’s makes life a lot easier. You’ll be hard-pressed to find many reps over the past couple of seasons where Jackson ends up eating turf. That’s rare with the violence of the collisions that occur in the trenches.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-all-trump-card-team
10 biggest sleepers in the 2020 NFL draft class (1. G JONAH JACKSON, OHIO STATE: He may not have the ideal body type or the quickest feet or the most powerful frame, but Jonah Jackson is a broken record in pass protection. He ends more pass pro reps at the line of scrimmage than any other guard in the draft class. His short sets are impeccable, and he’s so quick to get his hands on guys and lock them up. Jackson won 58% of his reps in the one-on-ones in Mobile despite splitting his time between all three interior positions.) (3-25-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-10-biggest-sleepers-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
Trust the tape on these prospects after less-than-stellar NFL Combine performances (OHIO STATE IOL JONAH JACKSON: Jackson’s 5.23 40, 7.83 three-cone and 5.02 shuttle were all below average times. The only redeeming drill Jackson had was his 28 bench press reps. That being said, his technique is on another level from any other interior lineman in this class. His hand usage in pass pro is second to none, and few positions have a history of bad athletes succeeding in the NFL quite like the interior offensive line.) (3-4-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-trust-the-tape-on-these-prospects-after-less-than-stellar-nfl-combine-performances
5 whose bad week won't hurt stock (Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Jackson isn't regarded close to the same as Epenesa or Reagor, so he's a different type of pick for this article. His 2019 film at Ohio State -- after transferring from Rutgers of all places -- is truly, outstandingly boring. And boring is good for offensive linemen. He plays much higher than most guards and doesn't have the squatty, fire hydrant of a frame we typically envision at the position. Jackson thrives thanks to awesome balance, a sturdy anchor, and two vice grips for hands. His 40-yard dash of 5.23 placed him in the 54th percentile historically among interior offensive linemen, and his 7.83 3-cone equates to the 49th percentile at the position. But those who like Jackson as a prospect -- like me -- weren't ready to bury Jackson if he didn't rock in Indianapolis. He won't be for every team, and that's fine. He's a lower-level athlete for the guard spot with tremendous fundamentals who overachieved in Columbus and has the technique to do so in the NFL. ) (3-3-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-why-the-combine-for-jalen-reagor-a-j-epenesa-and-other-prospects-shouldnt-hurt-their-stock/
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 2 (“Being nasty.” – Jonah Jackson on his strengths. After playing a mix of center and right guard at Rutgers from 2016-18, Jackson made the move to Ohio State and ended up the second-best interior offensive lineman in the draft in PFF's eyes. Jackson was always a nasty player, whether he was trying to open up holes in the running game or blocking for his quarterback in the passing game. He earned a PFF overall grade of 78.1 and was the fifth most valuable guard in the FBS, according to PFF WAA.) (2-26-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-2
Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Jonah Jackson runs official 5.23 second 40-yard dash (2-24-20): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap3000001104240/Jonah-Jackson-runs-official-5-23-second-40-yard-dash-at-2020-combine
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: Offensive line (Jonah Jackson, Ohio State. Suggested by: Zack Moran and Sonja Greenfield. Between his time at Maryland and Ohio State, Jackson started five games at center, 11 at right guard, and 13 at left guard, giving him multi-positional appeal. He is significantly more polished as a pass protector, handling one-on-ones and switches easily, but his lack of impact as a run blocker could cause him to start his career as a position flexible reserve.) (2-21-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/21/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-offensive-line/
2020 NFL Combine: Offensive Guard, Center Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (12. Jonah Jackson, Ohio State 6-4, 310 (C/OG) (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Able to play anywhere in the interior, he can move well and he’ll fit for the faster-paced teams that like to wing the ball all over the place. If it’s possible to show pure power in this workout, he has to do it.) (2-19-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-offensive-guard-center-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
A Senior Bowl prospect for every round for Lions (Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Unless the price tag ends up coming in much lower than expected, it's looking likely the Lions won't re-sign Graham Glasgow. That leaves a significant hole up front, and if the team doesn't address it with a cheaper option in free agency or in a trade, they'll probably need to spend an early-round pick on an interior blocker. A graduate transfer from Rutgers, Jackson thrived in his one season with the Buckeyes and added some versatility to the resume, flipping to the left side of the line in 2019. His footwork and balance are top notch and he's allowed fewer than 10 pass-rush pressures each of the past three seasons. ) (1-26-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/01/26/2020-senior-bowl-prospect-every-round-nfl-draft-detroit-lions/4580927002/
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Tuesday - One of my personal favorite players, Jonah Jackson was stellar today. He was consistently good in 1v1s, and was strong in team drills. Jackson doesn’t have the functional athleticism to be an early Day 2 pick. However, if a team is able to draft him on Day 3, they’re getting an absolute steal. Jonah Jackson was one of the five best linemen in Mobile today. Wednesday - Jackson has continued to prove he’s one of the top interior linemen in the Mobile, and maybe in this class. He’s excellent in pass protection, and he can absolutely move people in the run game. Thursday - Jackson wasn’t as strong as he has been, but he had by no means a “bad day.” He was still strong in pass pro and continued to move people off the line of scrimmage. Not his best day in Mobile, but was still one of the top OL here. Analysis - Jonah Jackson proved exactly who I thought he was – a top IOL prospect with elite play strength, but some athletic limitations. Jackson was a wall in pass protection this week and moved people in the run game. However, asking him to pull and get out on screens is not his forte. Strong week overall for the from Buckeye, as he’ll likely enter the draft as on of my top 5 iOL.(1-24-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/
Biggest risers and fallers at the 2020 Senior Bowl (Risers - Jonah Jackson, OG, Ohio State
Jackson may have moved all the way up to OG1 with his performance in Mobile. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound guard is a bit top-heavy, but his balance is absurd. He was near-flawless in one-on-one drills and also impressed in team drills as a run blocker. He should be in the first-round conversation when it’s all said and done.) (1-24-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-senior-bowl-risers-fallers-2020
Ranking the 50 best 2020 NFL draft prospects in the College Football Playoff (42. JONAH JACKSON, OL, OHIO STATE. Year: Senior. Jackson has been one of the best pass-protecting guards in the country over the past two years with only 17 pressures allowed over that span. He has some balance concerns though as he ends up on the turf far more often than you'd like from an offensive lineman.) (12-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-ranking-best-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-in-the-college-football-playoff
Biggest takeaways from a week of Senior Bowl practices (39. Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State: Jackson firmly put himself into the conversation for PFF’s OG1. He doesn’t have the raw power that our current top guard — Fresno State’s Netane Muti — possesses, but he is the most technically sound pass protector in the class. He’s a sure-fire top-50 player on our board.) (1-24-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-senior-bowl-takeaways-2020
Senior Bowl: Sleepers who shined (Jonah Jackson, IOL, Ohio State: The Rutgers transfer was a brick wall for Justin Fields and J.K. Dobbins in 2019, and that sturdy, fundamentally sound play continued in Mobile. At over 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds with long arms for the guard spot, Jackson gets low to win the leverage battle from the jump, is plenty strong in his upper half and has just enough athleticism to slide to stop counter moves. ) (1-24-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2020-nebraskas-lamar-jackson-lsus-stephen-sullivan-among-draft-sleepers-who-shined-in-mobile/
2020 Senior Bowl Day 2 Practice Notes: KJ Hill, Jonah Jackson and Troy Pride Jr. all shine bright (Ohio State OG Jonah Jackson
Jackson might be the only offensive lineman in attendance this week to not have a convincing loss in the one-on-ones. His independent hand usage has been nothing short of elite this week. The ability to latch and not let go is something that you love to see from an interior lineman. His build may not be the most impressive, but the tape is.) (1-22-20): https://www.pff.com/news/2020-senior-bowl-day-2-practice-notes-kj-hill-jonah-jackson-troy-pride-jr
Senior Bowl Offensive Linemen (Jonah Jackson, Ohio State (G): It’s not often a player from Rutgers can grad transfer to a program like Ohio State and earn a starting spot, but Jonah Jackson proved to be a unique case. A 6-foot-4, 305-pounder, Jackson was initially Rutgers’ starting center in 2017. He switched over to guard in his final season with the Scarlet Knights in 2018 and continued to play guard for the Buckeyes in 2019. Jackson, in just his first season in Columbus, helped running back J.K. Dobbins break Big Ten rushing records and quarterback Justin Fields lead a near-Heisman campaign. Jackson also helped his case through being dependable and available. According to Dan Hope of Eleven Warriors, Jackson tied for the lead in offensive snaps played for the Buckeyes in 2019. The offensive line battled injuries all year, especially at tackle, but Jackson remained a steady presence up front. In terms of his skill set, Jackson wins through passable movement in space and a great understanding of how to operate at the second level. Jackson can work across the line to double team then climb up to the second level and pick off a linebacker, just as its drawn up in the playbook. Though he is not exactly an elite athlete, he is plenty agile enough when considering how well he processes where he needs to be at any given time. Strength and anchor will not be Jackson’s best talking points, but he wouldn’t be the first zone offensive linemen that would be true of. It’s tough for offensive linemen to be truly good in both areas, and even just being good at one should make Jackson a viable backup at the next level. Zone teams like the Vikings, 49ers, Rams, and Packers should be eyeing Jackson when Day 3 of the NFL Draft rolls around. ) (1-21-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/senior-bowl-offensive-linemen
Big-10 Senior Bowl players preview: Hidden talents set to emerge (OL Jonah Jackson, Ohio State: Jonah Jackson is maybe the most underrated interior lineman in the country. He lacks elite athletic ability, but it doesn’t seem to affect him in space. He’s an absolute mauler but can be too eager to engage defenders, getting ahead of himself and outright missing. In pass protection, he’s constantly looking for work and can be a nasty secondary blocker. His feet can be slow, but it seems to be more technique based than on athletic limitations. With a strong OL coach to clean up his game, Jackson could be an above-average starter at the next level. Expect at least a pancake or two throughout the week. ) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-10-senior-bowl-players-preview-hidden-talents-set-to-emerge/
PFF 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Preview: players to watch, draft implications, schedule, team rosters and more (Jonah Jackson has been one of the more consistent offensive guards in college football. In the entirety of his collegiate career, Jackson has allowed 25 total pressures on 1,020 pass-block snaps with only one being a sack and zero total hits on the quarterback. Jackson transferred to Ohio State this past year from Rutgers and improved his run-blocking from a 70.3 grade to a 77.8 mark. He was the fifth most valuable left guard in college football in WAA this past year, but he has shown in the past that he is more than capable of playing anywhere on the interior.) (1-20-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-preview-players-to-watch-draft-implications-schedule-team-rosters
Building the best team from the College Football Playoff (Ohio State — Wyatt Davis, Jonah Jackson, Josh Myers: Another close race for this one, the trio of Davis, Jackson and Myers edges out Damien Lewis, Adrian Magee and Lloyd Cushenberry of LSU on the back of Myers’ solid play at center. Davis is one of the nation’s best guards, and Jackson has rounded into form late in the campaign after transferring from Rutgers this past offseason. Together, Davis and Jackson have allowed just one sack or hit all season long on a combined 807 pass-blocking snaps, and both have dominated in the run game, too. Myers, who made it on our list of top underclassmen in the playoff, has been just as strong, allowing 14 pressures on 404 pass-blocking snaps while putting forth well-above-average grades in the run game.) (12-24-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-building-best-team-from-college-football-playoff
College Football: 2019 PFF All-Big Ten Team (42. JONAH JACKSON, OL, OHIO STATE. Year: Senior. Jackson has been one of the best pass-protecting guards in the country over the past two years with only 17 pressures allowed over that span. He has some balance concerns though as he ends up on the turf far more often than you'd like from an offensive lineman.) (12-2-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-big-ten-team
Tony Pauline’s Week 14 Risers and Sliders: Auburn’s Derrick Brown leads list of risers (Risers - Jonah Jackson/G/Ohio State: Jackson is a player I’ve mentioned several times during the CFB game day blog this season and his performance during the Buckeyes thrashing of Michigan was so dominant he deserved to make the risers list. Jackson blew open holes on the left side of the offensive line, making J.K. Dobbins’s job much easier all day. He’s another small area lineman who will be a steal on the draft’s final day.) (12-2-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-week-14-risers-sliders-auburn-derrick-brown/
College Football Week 14 Eckrich Team of the Week (OFFENSIVE GUARD - Jonah Jackson, Ohio State: Finishing the regular season with his best performance yet, Jackson had not only the best overall game grade of his Ohio State career but in his four years as a collegiate offensive lineman. He allowed one hurry on 32 pass-blocking snaps and was second among all guards in run-blocking grade. Against a formidable Michigan front who was second in pressure percentage entering the game, Jackson's efforts were vital to Ohio State's success in the passing game.) (11-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-14-eckrich-team-of-the-week
College Football Week 5: Highest-graded offensive lines (While their run-blocking work was remarkable, their pass-protection almost matched that effort in that only one player surrendered multiple quarterback pressures (offensive tackle Joshua Alabi — 3). The player lining up alongside Alabi, Jonah Jackson, was one of the highest-graded pass-blocking guards in Week 5 (86.7), surrendering zero pressures and earning a perfect 100.0 pass-blocking efficiency rating. The Buckeyes’ offensive line ran only 29 passing snaps, but their pocket protection paired with their run-blocking prowess easily earns them a spot on this list.) (10-1-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-5-highest-graded-offensive-lines
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