Sunday, March 26, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 3-26-23

Articles:

Badgley says it's an exciting time for Lions: 'We're here to win this thing':  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/badgley-says-it-s-an-exciting-time-for-lions-we-re-here-to-win-this-thing


DJ Chark thanks Lions after signing new 1-year deal with the Panthers:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/25/dj-chark-thanks-lions-free-aegnt-contract-panthers/


Should Lions Draft Guard Peter Skoronski with No. 6 Pick?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/should-lions-draft-guard-peter-skoronski

Bears, Lions pushing to take over NFC North; how Patrick Peterson, Stephon Gilmore defy Father Time:  https://www.nfl.com/news/bears-lions-pushing-to-take-over-nfc-north-how-patrick-peterson-stephon-gilmore-

2023 NFL Draft:


Lions hosted official pre-draft visit for Stephen F Austin EDGE BJ Thompson:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/25/lions-predraft-visit-bj-thompson-sfa-jacks-pro-day/

Cal safety Daniel Scott’s Pro Day bolsters case for 49ers, others in NFL Draft (The Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions already are planning to host Scott for pre-draft visits next month, with more suitors likely, especially after his speedy showing at the combine. Some of those visits are often reserved for medical exams, and Smith noted he’s stayed healthy the past four years.):  https://www.chicoer.com/2023/03/23/cal-safety-daniel-scotts-pro-day-bolsters-case-for-49ers-others-in-nfl-draft/


Biggest takeaways from Will Levis' pro day, from excellent arm strength to accuracy issues:  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/will-levis-pro-day-takeaways-kentucky-arm-strength/hrqjqb1j5gzpi5ssljoewf0y




Pro Day News and Rumors: Dalton Kincaid Out, Blake Freeland Continues Climb, and More:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-dalton-kincaid-out-blake-freeland-continues-climb-and-more/

Pro Day News and Rumors: All Eyes on Will Levis, Stephen F. Austin Standouts, and More:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-all-eyes-on-will-levis-stephen-f-austin-standouts-and-more/

Video:

Saturday, March 25, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 3-25-23

Articles:


The Lions’ QB plans won’t change despite re-signing Nate Sudfeld:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/the-lions-qb-plans-wont-change-despite-re-signing-nate-sudfeld.html

The Lions offseason workout and minicamp dates are revealed:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/24/detroit-lions-minicamp-ota-dates-2023-schedule/

Jerry Jacobs: 'Real Fans Know I've Been Starting':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jerry-jacobs-reacts-to-online-graphic

'Put It on Me': New Lions DB Commands Added Responsibility:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/new-lions-db-commands-responsibility



Lions have fans in the Kelce brothers: 'Very bright future up there in Detroit':  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/travis-and-jason-kelce-have-high-praise-for-detroit-lions

2023 NFL Free Agency: Every NFL team's biggest loss (DETROIT LIONS: IOL EVAN BROWN - An underrated part of the Lions’ excellent free agency thus far is that they either had an in-house replacement for every player they lost or signed someone to fill that void. This applies to Brown, as well, but he provided solid interior offensive line depth with the flexibility to play at all three spots, though he was best suited at center.  Brown earned a 72.4 pass-blocking grade while starting most of the season at center in 2021 and was a shrewd addition among many such signings by the Seattle Seahawks.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-free-agency-every-nfl-team-biggest-loss

NFL's best revenge games in 2023 season: Super Bowl LVII rematch, Frank Reich vs. Colts and more (Green Bay Packers VS.Detroit Lions:  If the NFL were professional wrestling, the Lions would "owe" the Packers a win for beating them in the Week 18 finale last year. You might have heard me say this before, but only the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs had a better ending to their season than the Lions. Detroit beat its rival, a team that has really hounded the Motor City for years. The Lions became one of the most beloved teams in the NFL -- and seemingly helped send Aaron Rodgers out of town without one last playoff appearance. Now Detroit heads into the 2023 season as a sentimental favorite. This should be the first Sunday night game of the season -- even though I hate opening with divisional games -- but it really should be in prime time to kick off the 2023 slate. Make it happen, NFL.  Chicago Bears VS. Detroit Lions:  Oh, man -- this one is really personal for me. And I guess David Montgomery, as well. It was a bummer to see him leave Chicago. Signing a three-year, $18 million deal with a division rival adds insult to injury. That's not a slam on the Lions. Anything but. I was just saying nice things about them. However, it will seem weird to see Monty in the Honolulu Blue. Plus, he's probably going to rush for about six touchdowns in two games against the Bears. You can book that.  Detroit Lions AT New Orleans Saints:  It should also be noted that the Saints play host to the Lions this season. New Orleans, of course, being the new home of running back Jamaal Williams, who led the NFL in rushing touchdowns (17) last season with Detroit. Yeah, this will be a big storyline this fall.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-s-best-revenge-games-in-2023-season-super-bowl-lvii-rematch-frank-reich-vs-c

2023 NFL offseason: Top 10 moves of free agency so far (2. Lions sign CB Cameron Sutton:  If there's one thing Detroit needed this offseason, it was corner help. Rather than excitedly overpay for name recognition, or opt for an aging placeholder, they played it smart for the short and long term, managing to add both one of the top veteran cover men available and an ascending prospect who, freshly 28, can still grow with their lineup -- all at a modest $11M annual price tag, tied for just the 17th-largest at the position. Best of all, his physical approach meshes well with the Dan Campbell regime.  5. Lions sign S C.J. Gardner-Johnson:  Much has been said about Gardner-Johnson's failure to land lucrative money after a productive, play-making pit stop with the Eagles during their Super Bowl bid. But on a one-year deal worth up to $8M, just the 20th-highest mark among safeties, he's a true bargain. Feisty, chirpy and opportunistic, he's got the makings of a potential Dan Campbell favorite -- he was also well-liked by the energetic Nick Sirianni -- and, more importantly, should be motivated to take an improving secondary to the next level.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-offseason-top-10-moves-signings-trades-coaching-hires-include-lions-secondary-overhaul/

2023 NFL Draft:


2023 NFL Draft: 3 alternate players the Lions could draft at 6th overall:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/24/2023-nfl-draft-3-alternate-players-the-lions-could-draft-at-6th-overall/




2023 NFL Draft: Defensive back prospect superlatives:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-defensive-back-prospect-superlatives-2023-nfl-draft

How every five-star recruit in the 2020 class has graded so far in their college football career:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-how-every-five-star-recruit-in-the-2020-class-has-graded-so-far-in-their-college-football-career


What Are Myles Murphy’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (DETROIT LIONS - I believe the Lions will target a defensive difference-maker with the No. 6 overall selection. Whether that’s Murphy, Carter, or Tyree Wilson remains to be seen. Detroit’s first pick feels like the ceiling for Murphy’s ultimate landing spot.  A cornerback or safety has often been mocked to the Lions, but they’ve recently added Cam Sutton, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, and Emmanuel Moseley via free agency. General manager Brad Holmes could now shift his attention to pairing Aidan Hutchinson with a long-term partner. Murphy and Hutchinson would arguably form the league’s most fearsome ascending pass-rushing duo in the NFL.):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/myles-murphy-nfl-draft-bears-eagles-raiders-lions/

Braeden Daniels NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/braeden-daniels-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Anthony Bradford NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/anthony-bradford-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Podcast:

Twentyman in the Huddle Episode 42: C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Glasgow, Moore & Badgley sign with Lions:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-in-the-huddle-episode-42-c-j-gardner-johnson-glasgow-moore-badgley-sig

Dungeon of Doom: Lions’ draft needs post-free agency, plus Graham Glasgow joins:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/dungeon-of-doom-lions-draft-needs-post-free-agency-plus-graham-glasgow-joins.html

Video:

Which team needs to nail their first-round pick the most? | 'GMFB':  https://www.nfl.com/videos/which-team-needs-to-nail-their-first-round-pick-the-most-gmfb

Friday, March 24, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Friday 3-24-23

Articles:

Moore grateful to be back with Lions, calls Detroit his second home:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/moore-grateful-to-be-back-with-lions-calls-detroit-his-second-home


By Benjamin Raven, 4h agoLions free up substantial cap space by overhauling Halapoulivaati Vaitai’s contract:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/lions-free-up-more-cap-space-by-overhauling-halapoulivaati-vaitais-contract.html




Detroit Lions Early 2023 Depth Chart Prediction:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-depth-chart-prediction


How the Detroit Lions restored the roar with their new secondary in free agency:  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-free-agency-cameron-sutton-emmanuel-moseley-c-j-gardner-johnson/

2023 NFL Draft:

Why one draft analyst thinks Jalen Carter could be a good fit for Lions: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/why-one-draft-analyst-thinks-jalen-carter-could-be-a-good-fit-for-lions

Brad Holmes attends the Alabama pro day to check out Crimson Tide draft prospects:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/23/brad-holmes-lions-attends-alabama-crimson-tide-pro-day-nfl-draft-prospects/




Pro Day News and Rumors: Ohio State Fallout, Bryce Young Impresses With His Arm, and More:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-ohio-state-fallout-bryce-young-impresses-with-his-arm-and-more/

What Are Hendon Hooker’s 5 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions - A club in a position to win right now, Dan Campbell and Co. have something special brewing in the Motor City. I don’t expect them to take a passer at No. 6 overall, but with four more picks in the top 100—including two in the second round (Nos. 48 and 55 overall)—Hooker could be a nice addition to groom under Jared Goff for a year before giving him the keys to the offense.):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/hendon-hooker-nfl-draft-raiders-vikings-cowboys-seahawks-lions/

What Are Julius Brents’ 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions - The Lions can continue to upgrade their cornerbacks room. Jeff Okudah had a big third year after playing in just 10 games over his first two seasons, but Detroit still had one of the worst passing defenses in the NFL last year, allowing upward of 245 yards per game in the air while also being a bottom half team in ball production. That’s a big problem with some elite receivers like Justin Jefferson and now D.J. Moore in the division. Julius Brents can be another tall, lengthy corner for the Detroit secondary that can play press and get physical against some of the division’s best receivers and come out on top. That’s exactly the kind of player the Lions need to add as they move closer and closer to contention and out of their rebuilding period.):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/julius-brents-nfl-draft-steelers-vikings-patriots-lions/

2023 NFL Draft guard-center rankings: Peter Skoronski the clear top prospect:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-draft-guard-center-rankings-peter-skoronski-the-clear-top-prospect


Best-case player comps for some of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL draft:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-player-comparison/



Christian Izien: An Under-The-Radar NFL Draft Prospect You Need To Know:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/christian-izien-an-under-the-radar-nfl-draft-prospect-you-need-to-know/

Cameron Young NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/cameron-young-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Camerun Peoples NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/camerun-peoples-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Bucky Brooks' top five 2023 NFL Draft prospects by position 2.0: QB Hooker above Richardson and Levis:  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-top-five-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-2-0-qb-hooker-above-r

Podcast:  

Watch: Detroit Lions Podcast breaks down the free agent mastery of Brad Holmes:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/23/detroit-lions-podcast-free-agency-breakdown-brad-holmes-michael-grey-guest/

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 3-23-23

Articles:


Former Lions fourth-round pick reportedly signing with San Francisco 49ers:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/former-lions-fourth-round-pick-reportedly-signing-with-san-francisco-49ers.html

Lions free agency: Who’s in, who’s out, what it all means heading into the draft:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/lions-free-agency-whos-in-whos-out-what-it-all-means-heading-into-the-draft.html

Mel Kiper says Brad Holmes could get an A-plus for Lions draft classes:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/mel-kiper-says-brad-holmes-could-get-an-a-plus-for-lions-draft-classes.html




Is Reunion With WR Marvin Jones Jr. Worth for Detroit Lions?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/is-reunion-with-wr-marvin-jones-worth-it-for-lions

Chris Spielman 'Took It Personally' When Fans Booed Sheila Hamp:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/chris-spielman-reacts-to-fans-booing-sheila-hamp



Detroit Lions 2024 Super Bowl odds increase after free agency’s first wave:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/22/23648623/detroit-lions-2024-super-bowl-odds-increase-free-agencys-first-wave


How the Detroit Lions restored the roar with their new secondary in free agency:  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-free-agency-cameron-sutton-emmanuel-moseley-c-j-gardner-johnson/



Lions' offseason moves show they want to go from dark horse to contender:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/lions-offseason-moves-show-they-want-to-go-from-dark-horse-to-contender

NFL free agency grades 2023: Ranking signings, trades for all 32 teams from best (Bears) to worst (Packers) (4. Detroit Lions - Grade: A.  Key additions: RB David Montgomery, CB Cameron Sutton, CB Emmanuel Moseley, G Graham Glasgow, S C.J. Gardner-Johnson.  Key re-signings: LB Alex Anzalone, EDGE John Cominsky, RB Craig Reynolds, DT Isaiah Buggs, OT Matt Nelson.  Key losses: RB Jamaal Williams, S Deshon Elliott, WR D.J. Chark, LB Chris Board, G Evan Brown, CB Mike Hughes.  GM Brad Holmes did some great work overhauling their pass coverage behind Jeff Okudah by landing Gardner-Johnson, Sutton and Moseley from other teams' great schemes. Montgomery not only is a more versatile upgrade from Williams, but he also is a top-flight contingency for D'Andre Swift. The Lions are set up nicely to finish their playoff push in the draft.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-free-agency-grades-2023-best-worst-offseason/sqtlomopd7jepkyakr26lhew

Which team did the most in free agency for their upcoming season? (Kyle: I love what the Lions have done. David Montgomery is a really good player — although I get that paying RBs is bad process, but betting against Jamal Williams replicating his 2022 season is fine. I love the CJ Gardner-Johnson signing, and adding him along with CBs Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley should help their defense significantly. That offense is gonna hum, and now they’ve given themselves some more flexibility in the draft with their two top 20 picks. They’re now the firm favorite in the NFC North for me.):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-free-agency-winners-and-losers/

Who Will Sign DJ Chark? Possible Landing Spots for Detroit Lions Wide Receiver (Who Will Sign DJ Chark in Free Agency?  Detroit Lions - The Lions have been active in free agency, but most of their additions have come on the defensive side of the ball. C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Cameron Sutton, and Emmanuel Moseley are in town to help solve Detroit’s secondary woes, while the Lions also re-signed linebacker Alex Anzalone and defensive lineman John Cominsky.  On offense, Detroit added David Montgomery to replace Jamaal Williams, but they haven’t done any work on their receiving corps. If the season started today, the Lions would line up Amon-Ra St. Brown and 2022 first-round selection Jameson Williams as their starting receivers, but they still need a third option.  Lions general manager Brad Holmes indicated earlier this year that re-signing Chark was on the table, and Chark seems to have enjoyed his time in Detroit.  “One thing I can say about the coaches in Detroit, they really — they know your kid’s names, and they’re really into like who you are as a person,” Chark said. “Whereas that’s not always the case. A lot of different personalities that mesh well.”  The Lions still have more than $22 million in remaining cap space. Given that he missed time last season, Chark is unlikely to command another $10 million price tag, so a reunion in Detroit could make sense.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/who-will-sign-dj-chark-2023/

2023 NFL Draft:


Lions Draft Preview: Chandler Zavala Scouting Report:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-chandler-zavala-scouting-report

Pro Day News and Rumors: C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Headline Loaded Ohio State Pro Day:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-cj-stroud-jaxon-smith-njigba-marvin-harrison-jr-headline-loaded-ohio-state-pro-day/

2023 NFL Draft: What We Learned from Ohio State pro day :  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-what-we-learned-from-ohio-state-pro-day


Alabama Pro Day 2023 News, Rumors: Bryce Young Set To Throw for the First Time:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/alabama-pro-day-2023-news-rumors-bryce-young-set-to-throw-for-the-first-time/


2023 NFL Draft: Linebacker prospect superlatives:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-linebacker-prospect-superlatives-2023-nfl-draft

2023 NFL Draft: Highest-graded draft-eligible running backs by season:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-highest-graded-draft-eligible-running-backs-by-season-2023-nfl-draft



Darius Rush NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/darius-rush-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

2023 NFL Draft Top 50 Big Board: Will Anderson Jr., Jalen Carter, Bryce Young sit atop prospect rankings:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-50-big-board-will-anderson-jr-jalen-carter-bryce-young-sit-atop-prospect-rankings/


Video:

Baldinger: Lions might be winners of 2023 offseason so far:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/baldinger-lions-might-be-winners-of-2023-offseason-so-far


Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 3-22-23

Articles:

Glasgow returns to Detroit to join former teammates on an established o-line:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/glasgow-returns-to-detroit-to-join-former-teammates-on-an-established-o-line



2023 Detroit Lions defensive depth chart prediction:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-detroit-lions-defensive-depth-chart-prediction/

Detroit Lions salary cap update after aggressive free agency moves:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/21/detroit-lions-salary-cap-update-after-free-agency-moves/

What They're Saying: Detroit Lions Ace Free Agency:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-theyre-saying-detroit-lions-ace-free-agency

Eagles Fans Sensitive After Gardner-Johnson Says Lions Roster Better:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/eagles-fans-sensitive-after-gardner-johnson-comment

Why Did Eagles Not Re-Sign C.J. Gardner-Johnson?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/learning-about-c-j-gardner-johnson



The Detroit Lions have evolved by showing calcualted aggression in free agency:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/21/23647791/detroit-lions-evolve-free-agency-big-swings-signings-brad-holmes



Underpaid, overpaid 2023 NFL free agents based on expectations: Jimmy Garoppolo, Orlando Brown Jr. and more (PLAYERS WHO GOT MORE THAN EXPECTED - LB ALEX ANZALONE, DETROIT LIONS.  Contract: Three years, $18.75 million ($6.25 million per year), $9 million total guaranteed.  PFF projected contract: Two years, $7 million ($3.5 million per year), $4.25 million total guaranteed.  Anzalone is clearly beloved by a coaching staff that he followed from the New Orleans Saints to the Detroit Lions, and he deserves a lot of credit for staying healthy for the majority of 2021 and the entirety of 2022 after injuries plagued the beginning of his career. That said, Anzalone played just 1,215 snaps over his first four NFL seasons and nearly matched that with 1,076 in 2022 alone.  Is this a bit of a buy-high on a team leader and favorite of the coaching staff? Was the off-ball linebacker market pretty quiet across the league otherwise? Yes and yes. Does that make this a bad deal? Not necessarily. It’s just more than we expected, and perhaps some of this money could’ve gone toward an interior defender or a third wide receiver. However, it sounds like Detroit hasn’t shut the door on the return of wide receiver D.J. Chark Jr.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-underpaid-overpaid-2023-nfl-free-agents-jimmy-garoppolo-orlando-brown

2023 NFL free agency: Best/riskiest moves in the opening wave of the veteran market ( BEST SIGNINGS - Cameron Sutton.  CONTRACT: Three years, $33 million with $21.5 million guaranteed.  Chauncey Gardner-Johnson - CONTRACT: One year, $8 million with $6.5 million fully guaranteed.  After Sunday night's addition of Gardner-Johnson, I had to pair the two signings. The Lions desperately needed to upgrade the secondary. They scooped up two proven defensive backs without paying massive money. Now Detroit owns significant versatility on the back end. Sutton can play inside or outside. CJGJ can man the slot or play safety alongside Kerby Joseph. Frankly, it was a surprise the Steelers let Sutton out of the building after he gave up just 32 receptions on 72 targets in 2022 -- that 44.4 percent completion rate allowed was tied for the fourth-lowest in a season since 2016 (min. 50 targets), per NGS. Perhaps Gardner-Johnson overplayed his free agency hand, but the Lions benefitted. His hard-hitting and tenacity bring juice to a previously limp Lions secondary. Add in the reported low-cost deal for CB Emmanuel Moseley, and Detroit hit a home run in free agency, significantly upgrading its weakest position group in the past week.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-free-agency-best-riskiest-moves-in-the-opening-wave-of-the-veteran-mark

NFL free agency team grades (Detroit Lions: B+.  Key additions: S C.J. Gardner-Johnson (Eagles), RB David Montgomery (Bears), CB Cameron Sutton (Steelers), CB Emmanuel Moseley (49ers). Key re-signings: RB Craig Reynolds, DL Isaiah Buggs, LB Alex Anzalone, DL John Cominsky, CB C.J. Moore.  The Lions haven't made any gigantic moves, but they kept key cogs to the culture Dan Campbell is building in running back Craig Reynolds (terms undisclosed), defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs (two years, worth up to $6 millions), and linebacker Alex Anzalone (three years, $18.8 million). Swapping out running back Jamaal Williams (27 years old) for former Chicago Bears starter David Montgomery (25 years old) on a three-year, $18 million deal is a solid move.   They also addressed a key area of need in their secondary by snagging 28-year-old cornerback Cameron Sutton from the Pittsburgh Steelers for three years, $33 million. That total value dollar amount is equivalent to the rookie contract of their former third overall pick from the 2020 NFL Draft, cornerback Jeff Okudah, a nice value for a player with Sutton's recent production. He only allowed a 46.8% completion percentage when targeted in 2022, the third-lowest in the NFL among players who were targeted 70 or more times. The only players with lower completion percentages were the Eagles' Second-Team All-Pro cornerback James Bradberry (43.5%) and the New York Jets 2022 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Sauce Gardner (44.2%). Detroit continued to reinforce the position by snagging former, longtime 49ers corner Emmanuel Moseley on a one-year, $6 million contract.   Late on March 19, the Lions completed their full-on secondary makeover by signing former Philadelphia Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to a one-year deal worth $8 million. That's a total steal for the 25-year-old safety who co-led the NFL in interceptions last season with six.   Nice work by general manager Brad Holmes to patch the NFL's 30th-ranked pass defense (245.8 passing yards per game allowed). He can now make some real noise in the 2023 NFL Draft with multiple first round picks and many needs already addressed.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-free-agency-team-by-team-grades-cowboys-earn-a-while-lions-dolphins-steelers-also-among-winners/

7 best under-the-radar NFL free agency signings you might have missed during March Madness (3.  Lions sign CB/S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to a one-year, $8 million deal ($6.5 million guaranteed):  CJGJ went from a potential franchise tag candidate to a one-year prove-it deal with guaranteed money worth roughly 40 percent of the value of the tag. In the words of the Virgin Mary, “come again?”  Gardner-Johnson’s flexibility in the middle of the field was invaluable to the Eagles’ run to the NFC title. He tied for the league high with six interceptions. In just 12 games. In his age 26 season. He reached new heights as an Eagle and may still be growing.  Now he goes to the neediest secondary in the NFC. The Lions have made several common sense moves to address their 23rd-ranked passing defense this spring. Cameron Sutton is a rock solid starter. Emmanuel Moseley is capable of Pro Bowl performances if he can stay healthy. Both are flexible enough to play in the slot or outside.  That versatility reaches new heights with Gardner-Johnson, who can play corner or safety while wreaking havoc at either spot. Let’s assume he’ll be the strong safety to Kerby Joseph’s more freewheeling center fielder. The 2022 third round pick had some struggles as a rookie but showed off instinctive coverage chops en route to four interceptions — three of Aaron Rodgers! — and an 84.8 passer rating allowed in coverage.  That’s a lot of ball-swatting help for a revamped cornerback rotation. It’s also a suddenly intimidating defensive backs corps if Moseley is 100 percent and Jeff Okudah can be even 85 percent of the player Detroit thought it was getting when it drafted him third overall. There’s a massive opportunity to fill a vacuum in the NFC North. The Lions are jumping in head first.  So what have the Eagles lost this season? I can’t say it any better than a look at their prospective 2024 compensatory draft pick lineup does (they’ll get four bonus picks out of this, the maximum allowed by the league).  They also lost their offensive and defensive coordinators. But they still have Jalen Hurts and AJ Brown and James Bradberry and Lane Johnson and, honestly, have you seen the rest of the NFC? They’re fine. I just wonder if not bringing back Gardner-Johnson at a fraction of what he was worth in 2022 will be something general manager Howie Roseman comes to regret.):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-free-agency-best-signings-chiefs-patriots-steelers-buccaneers

C.J. Gardner-Johnson: Lions’ talent is a little bit better than the Eagles’ talent:  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/03/21/c-j-gardner-johnson-lions-talent-is-a-little-bit-better-than-the-eagles-talent/

Are Lions Team To Beat In NFC North?:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/lions-nfc-north-favorites-2023/

2023 NFL Draft:


Pro Day News and Rumors: Will McDonald IV, Xavier Hutchinson, and Andrei Iosivas Star at Iowa State and Princeton Pro Days:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-will-mcdonald-xavier-hutchinson-and-andrei-iosivas-star-at-iowa-state-and-princeton-pro-days/

2023 NFL Draft: Defensive line prospect superlatives:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-defensive-line-prospect-superlatives

2023 NFL Draft: 10 small-school sleepers:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-small-school-sleepers-2023-nfl-draft

The 'other' quarterback Hendon Hooker in the 2023 NFL draft drawing attention with official visits:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/20/2023-nfl-draft-hendon-hooker-bucs-texans-titans-giants/



Antoine Green NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/antoine-green-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Emmanuel Forbes vs Julius Brents: Who Would You Draft?:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/emmanuel-forbes-julius-brents-nfl-draft-2023/

NFL Draft 2023: Fowler’s Top 10 TE Big Board:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-te-big-board-fowler/

2023 NFL Draft: QB Pro Day Primer, with the biggest storylines, what to watch as top QB prospects work out:  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-qb-pro-day-primer-with-the-biggest-storylines-what-to-watch-as-top-qb-prospects-work-out/

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Combine II (3/21 update):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_27.php

NFL Draft 2023: Top 50 prospect rankings, from franchise cornerstones on down:  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-2023-top-50-prospect-rankings-from-franchise-cornerstones-on-down-230247363.html

Podcast:



Video:

Which team has 'all of the pieces' to play in Super Bowl next year? | 'GMFB' (Kyle picks the Lions):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/which-team-has-all-of-the-pieces-to-play-in-super-bowl-next-year-gmfb

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 3-21-23

Articles:

Gardner-Johnson on his position: 'No matter where you put me, it's going to go down all game':  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/gardner-johnson-on-his-position-no-matter-where-you-put-me-it-s-going-to-go-down

Graham Glasgow comes home to play with his buds, be a part of something special:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/graham-glasgow-comes-home-to-play-with-his-buds-be-a-part-of-something-special.html



Watch: Reaction to the Lions signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson and how he fits:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/20/lions-signing-c-j-gardner-johnson-defense-fit-impact-video-reaction/

Lions and Eagles players share great reactions to Detroit signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/19/lions-and-eagles-players-share-great-reactions-to-detroit-signing-c-j-gardner-johnson/

NFC North Roundtable: How Detroit Lions Crushed Free Agency:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfc-north-roundtable-how-lions-crushed-free-agency


New Lions DB Ready to Express ‘Football Personality’:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/new-lions-db-can-express-football-personality

Graham Glasgow: I Was 'Bitter' About Leaving Detroit Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/graham-glasgow-was-bitter-about-leaving-lions


Detroit Lions restructure Jack Fox’s contract, free up $1.6 million in cap space:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/20/23648727/detroit-lions-restructure-jack-fox-contract-free-up-1-6-million-in-cap-space




Biggest needs for all 32 NFL teams after free agency: Chiefs' offensive line, Jets' QB situation and more (DETROIT LIONS: IDL, S, WR.  The Lions are surely hoping Levi Onwuzurike can be a consistent contributor for their defensive line in 2023 and beyond, but his back injuries make it hard to have blind faith in that. With that in mind, the Lions need a dominant three-technique defensive tackle. Cornerback was a glaring need on their depth chart before free agency, but with the additions of Emmanuel Moseley and Cameron Sutton, they at least don’t have to pick one in the first round (though they still could). The back end could use another impact player, and they could also target a big-bodied receiver to pair with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-offseason-needs-32-nfl-teams-2023

C.J. Gardner-Johnson joined the Lions on the most bizarre deal of NFL free agency:  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2023/03/cj-gardner-johnson-lions-nfl-free-agency

Top free agent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson seemingly implied he’s being lowballed with 3-word reaction:  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2023/03/nfl-free-agency-cj-gardner-johnson-disrespectful-tweet

Grades:

Grading Lions' Signing of Chauncey Gardner-Johnson:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/grading-lions-signing-cj-gardner-johnson

Walter football (Lions sign S/CB Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (1 year, $8 million; $6.5 million guaranteed): A+ Grade.  I can't believe this contract, especially compared to the one I graded previously. How in the world is a 33-year-old rapidly declining receiver making more than triple compared to a talented, 25-year-old defensive back who can play multiple positions?  I don't understand why Chauncey Gardner-Johnson didn't receive a larger contract. He's coming off a strong year for the Eagles, he's young, and he's versatile. He's going to be a great addition to Detroit's secondary on this low-risk deal. I already loved my 33/1 bet on the Lions to win the Super Bowl, and now I wish I bet even more on it.):  https://walterfootball.com/freeagentsigninggrades.php

CBS (Lions improve defense with Chauncey Gardner-Johnson.  Although it's not necessarily surprising that Gardner-Johnson did not command top dollar on the free agent market, the Lions received tremendous value in the addition on a reported one-year, $8 million deal. Few coaches will know how to properly use the versatile defender quite like Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn, who coached him in New Orleans. Gardner-Johnson plays a physical brand of football and fits into the culture that Campbell has been working to foster over the past two years.  The team has also added cornerbacks Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley to a revamped secondary this offseason. It will be interesting to see how the pieces fit together with Tracy Walker and Kerby Joseph on the back end.  Grade: A):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-free-agency-grades-panthers-earn-b-for-adam-thielen-addition-lions-ace-gardner-johnson-move/

2023 NFL Draft:


Juice Scruggs NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/juice-scruggs-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

Terell Smith NFL Draft 2023 Prospect Interview:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/terell-smith-nfl-draft-2023-interview/

NFL Draft 2023: Fowler’s Top 10 CB Big Board:  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-cb-big-board-fowler/

2023 NFL Draft: Highest-graded draft-eligible quarterbacks by season:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-highest-graded-draft-eligible-quarterbacks-bryce-young-hendon-hooker

2023 NFL Draft: Quarterback prospect-team fits after initial wave of free agency (QB Hendon Hooker:  The Lions have two first-round picks, at Nos. 6 and 18 overall, and have been connected to quarterbacks by analysts and mock drafters. It makes sense. After all, even as well as Jared Goff played last season, it's not hard to look at the 28-year-old's contract (which runs through 2024) and see a path where the Lions move on eventually.   But using a first-rounder on a quarterback -- even if, say, Richardson somehow floated down to six -- just feels a bit rich to me right now. The Lions were active in free agency again this year, landing help for their overburdened defense, and they could approach the draft with a best-contributor-available mindset.   Having won eight of 10 down the stretch in 2022 to make a valiant run at the playoffs, the Lions are contenders now. Which is why a player such as Hooker feels like an almost perfect concession to the need for a future QB. They can get a player with some Round 1 traits -- arm talent, athleticism, experience and a good physical build -- without paying a premium price. Hooker then can spend Year 1 continuing to rehab the torn ACL he suffered late last season and immerse himself in Ben Johnson's offense, with little pressure to contribute immediately.  It may be a bit like comparing apples to kumquats, but the Lions did trade up to spend a first-round pick on receiver Jameson Williams last year, knowing there was a chance he might not provide much coming off his own ACL tear. Granted, the stakes have changed in Detroit one year later -- the Lions could be the NFC North favorites, with Aaron Rodgers departing the division. But the move for Williams at least gives us a window into how the Lions view a prospect coming off a significant injury, and shows they're not just thinking one year at a time with these draft picks.:  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-quarterback-prospect-team-fits-after-initial-wave-of-free-agency

Pro Day News and Rumors: Sean Tucker Not Expected To Work Out at Syracuse Pro Day:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-0320-2023-sean-tucker/

Video:






Monday, March 20, 2023

2023 NFL Draft Prospect DE Adetomiwa Adebawore

Scouting Reports:








Articles:

Lions mailbag: Answering your NFL Draft questions (Q: I'm just curious, which top prospect will be there at the start of Round 2, and what Day 2 prospect gets drafted in the first round that would catch people by surprise? — @mrstingray93.  As for prospects who many feel are second-rounders, here are some I think could make their way into the first: Kansas State cornerback Julius Brents, Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz, Northwestern defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore and Syracuse offensive tackle Matthew Bergeron.) (4-25-23):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/25/detroit-lions-mailbag-answering-your-nfl-draft-questions/70148692007/

Ryan Fowler’s ‘My Guys’ For 2023 NFL Draft: Defense (Adetomiwa Adebawore (Northwestern) - Whether you classify him as a guy that should live inside the tackles, or out, Adebawore’s versatility showcases one of the more unique athletes in the 2023 NFL Draft class. I love his play strength and his pass-rush repertoire. Combining it with his elite athletic profile displays a defender that should enjoy success right away. ) (4-25-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-defense-my-guys-fowler/

2023 NFL draft: Interior defensive line still among top needs for Detroit Lions (Before shifting to the sexier edge defenders, identifying some defensive tackles for the rounds outside of the first day is worth a moment. Adetomiwa Adebawore fits the mold as one of those twitchy, inside-outside defensive linemen to watch. Adebawore is a sneaky late first-round option. He ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash at the combine, the fastest ever for someone weighing over 280 pounds.) (4-25-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/04/2023-nfl-draft-interior-defensive-line-still-among-top-needs-for-detroit-lions.html

NFL Draft 2023: 3 Potential Surprise 1st-Round Picks (ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE EDGE, NORTHWESTERN - Adetomiwa Adebawore arguably put forth one of the greatest performances in NFL Scouting Combine history. The 6-foot-1, 282-pound Adebawore ran a silly 40-yard dash time of 4.49 seconds, which places him in the 97th percentile among all-time performers at his position. Lower-body explosion was evident via a 125-inch broad jump (90th percentile) and 37.5-inch vertical (88th percentile). Adebawore possesses raw natural strength, which he put on display through 27 reps on the bench press. On film, Adebawore is an extremely versatile defender that has been utilized at EDGE, as a 3-tech, 5-tech, and 4i. Adebawore’s inside-outside appeal will satisfy potential suitors. He’s viewed as a three-down defender due to his ability to move around formations and play in different packages.  The New Orleans Saints (No. 29 overall), Philadelphia Eagles (No. 30), and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs (No. 31) all require an EDGE defender. Adebawore possesses a terrific opportunity to hear his name called within the opening 31 draft selections.) (4-25-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-surprise-1st-round-picks/

Five potential surprise NFL draft first-round picks: New name at QB? (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern:  Another hyperathletic defensive linemen, Adebawore set himself apart from his peers at the NFL scouting combine with arguably the best athletic testing of anyone on hand in Indianapolis. The 6-2, 282-pounder blazed a 4.49-second 40-yard dash, the best mark in the event's history for any player weighing at least 280 pounds. A 37 ½-inch vertical and 10-5 broad jump further underscored his explosiveness. Showcasing that physical profile was important for Adebawore, whose performance at Northwestern was uneven at best. An all-out approach too often took him out of plays or led to missed tackles, but moving from the edge to a three-technique role could better position him to throw blockers off with his leverage and length. There are a handful of teams in the final few picks of the first round that could be in the market for a havoc-inducing interior defender, giving Adebawore a solid shot at making the Day 1 cut.) (4-25-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/04/25/nfl-draft-surprise-first-round-picks-hendon-hooker/11728105002/

The Grit Index: Identifying which NFL Draft prospects are ‘Dan Campbell guys’ (A 5/6T at Northwestern, Adebawore projects as a hybrid defensive lineman, capable of playing from the 3T to the 7T in the NFL. At 282 pounds, he ran a blistering 4.49 40-yard-dash at the NFL Combine, illustrating what happens when you combine freaky athleticism and tireless work ethic.  Here is an excerpt from Brugler:  “freaky strength room numbers, which translates to the field … voted a senior captain … intrinsically motivated and was credited with “rebuilding” the culture of the team, according to Northwestern director of football performance Jay Hooten … plays through pain and didn’t miss a start the last three seasons.”) (4-23-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/4/24/23695330/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-football-character-fits-prospects-dan-campbell-grit-index

2023 NFL Draft: What Does the Defensive Tackle Class Look Like Behind Jalen Carter? (Defensive Tackle Notable Mentions - There are defensive tackles throughout the draft that could become plug-and-play starters from Day 1. However, the drop-off from the top to the second tier could push some to be taken earlier than expected.  After Carter and Kancey, a few names to monitor would be Northwestern’s Adetomiwa Adebawore, Clemson’s Bryan Bresee, Baylor’s Siaki Ika, and Michigan’s Mazi Smith.  Adebawore and Bresee are athletic DTs that can push the pocket, similar to Kancey and Carter, that some teams might prefer from the middle of the defense. They can help in run defense, but that’s more of the style for the other two big boys.) (4-21-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/defensive-tackle-class-jalen-carter-2023/

Risers, fallers, teams trading up and more draft topics (7. Which prospect could make the biggest leap into Round 1?  Trapasso: Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern -- "He's a super-long, hyper-athletic inside-out rusher. His athleticism and versatility give him the feel of a surprise first-round pick.") (4-20-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-risers-and-fallers-in-the-first-round-teams-that-could-trade-up-and-other-narratives/

Top 10 DTs in the 2023 NFL Draft: Jalen Carter Stands Tall on the Interior (4. Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  Adetomiwa Adebawore played all over the defensive front at Northwestern. It’s plausible that he could take many of his reps at EDGE in the NFL, but he’s truly a lab-built 3-tech, who’s in the same realm as Calijah Kancey when it comes to disruptive potential.  At the NFL Combine, Adebawore logged a 4.49 40-yard dash, with a 1.55 10-yard split. Other athletic numbers on file — among them a 37″ vertical, a 10’5″ broad jump, and a 7.13 three-cone — adequately convey Adebawore’s freakish athleticism. He did all this at 6’2″, 282 pounds, with near-34″ arms. His ceiling is nearly unmatched in this group.) (4-18-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/

Chad Reuter: Six prospects surging up boards ahead of 2023 NFL Draft (4-17-23):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/chad-reuter-six-prospects-surging-up-boards-ahead-of-2023-nfl-draft

2023 NFL Draft: One riser, one faller at each position according to PFF's Mock Draft Simulator (Risers - Edge Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern (PFF Big Board Rank: 41):  PFF lead draft analyst Mike Renner called Adebawore the “single most impressive performer at the combine” due to his speed, vertical jump and broad jump testing numbers. He also improved his PFF pass-rushing grade in each of his final three seasons at Northwestern.  Adebawore was teetering on the edge of the second and third rounds in late February but has since risen to an early second-rounder. He is being drafted at the 39th pick or earlier in 50% of simulator mocks.) (4-14-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-risers-fallers-each-position-mock-draft-simulator

4 prospects who are difficult evaluations for the 2023 NFL draft (Adetomiba Adebawore, DL, Northwestern:  Adebawore was generally perceived as a middle-round prospect after a solid but unspectacular career playing primarily DE at Northwestern. Then came his tour de force Senior Bowl week, where Adebawore kicked inside and kicked serious butt. His quickness and violence in his hands worked much more effectively inside at tackle than they did on the edge, where Adebawore was often a little heavy-footed and slow to the point of attack.  The move inside is a prudent move for Adebawore, but it’s not a panacea for being a “tweener”. His Northwestern game film is littered with No. 94 struggling to get off the blocks of tackles and not being able to anchor on the edge; now he’ll face (generally) stronger interior linemen and won’t have the benefit of as much space to operate in to make moves.  I can see it working out for Adebawore in a Geno Atkins kind of way in the NFL, a Pro Bowl-caliber interior rusher. I can just as easily see him being the next Christian Covington, a journeyman rotational DT.) (4-10-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-prospect-tough-scouting-reports-nolan-smith-adebawore-flowers-darnell-washington/

What Are Adetomiwa Adebawore’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions:  While the team invested in edge rushers in the 2022 NFL Draft, their interior defensive line was still a weak spot during the 2022 season, particularly in run-stopping situations. Adebawore’s competency in gap control and reading blocks, as well as his ability to play head-up on tackles, make him an intriguing prospect to shore up that weakness. On top of that, head coach Dan Campbell and his coaching staff value versatility, which could allow Adebawore to showcase his range of skills and alignments as both a run-stopper and a pass rusher across the defensive line.) (4-5-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/adetomiwa-adebawore-nfl-draft-lions-bears-browns-saints/

Boom or bust: NFL draft's 13 biggest high-risk, high-reward prospects (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DE/DT, Northwestern:  Perhaps no one else at the scouting combine did as much to boost their name, as Adebawore showcased his explosiveness with a 4.49-second 40-yard dash, 37 1/2-inch vertical leap and 10-5 broad jump. At 6-2 and 282 pounds, Adebawore can resemble a full-speed bowling ball when barreling toward offensive linemen. The problem: His pass-rush plan and finishing touch often have the same level of subtlety as that bowling ball. Playing him at defensive tackle rather than on the edge should help Adebawore tap into his best features, but a dose of control and discipline will be needed for him to become a consistent playmaker.) (4-5-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/04/05/nfl-draft-boom-bust-prospects-2023-anthony-richardson-will-levis/11563812002/

What Are Adetomiwa Adebawore’s 4 Best NFL Team Fits? (Detroit Lions - While the team invested in edge rushers in the 2022 NFL Draft, their interior defensive line was still a weak spot during the 2022 season, particularly in run-stopping situations. Adebawore’s competency in gap control and reading blocks, as well as his ability to play head-up on tackles, make him an intriguing prospect to shore up that weakness. On top of that, head coach Dan Campbell and his coaching staff value versatility, which could allow Adebawore to showcase his range of skills and alignments as both a run-stopper and a pass rusher across the defensive line.) (4-5-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/adetomiwa-adebawore-nfl-draft-lions-bears-browns-saints/

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Pro Days (Up - Adetomiwa Adebawore, DE, Northwestern:  Adebawore has had an excellent postseason that featured a good combine performance. He showed off serious speed in the 40-yard dash and has an impressive skill set. Adebawore has a tweener body type, but teams could play him at end in base defense and move him inside to tackle in the sub package. Adebawore is getting a lot of media hype, and it will only takes one team to fall in love and select him earlier than expected in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (3-28-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_28.php

2023 NFL Draft's best at everything: Top defensive line performers in 10 distinct categories (BEST GET-OFF - DI: Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  While I think Adebawore has the traits to primarily be an edge defender, PFF has projected him to be an interior defensive lineman, making him the easy top performer in this category. Adebawore put on a show at the NFL Combine in March, producing a 9.7 raw athletic score, but his 10-yard split may have been the most impressive mark.  Running a 1.55-second 10-yard split at 282 pounds is truly breathtaking, and it translates on tape, as he's routinely the first defender firing across the line of scrimmage. He still needs some refinement, but his upside is unrivaled in this class due to his athleticism, motor and work ethic.) (4-4-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-best-at-everything-top-defensive-line-performers-nick-herbig-calijah-kancey

Lions 2023 draft: A defensive tackle for every round (2nd round: Adetomiba Adebawore, Northwestern - One of the draft season’s biggest winners, Adebawore’s stock has risen now that he’s established himself as an interior defender. He played more on the outside while at Northwestern, but his quickness-based game and lack of length mean he’ll play tackle predominately at the NFL level.  He did that exceptionally well during Senior Bowl week and he showed he could do it at times in college when given a chance. Heavy hands, powerful shoulders and excellent use of leverage are his calling cards. Like Carter, he’ll miss some tackles and isn’t likely to be a player of consequence in run defense. Adebawore plays with the intensity and high-motor style that this Lins coaching staff strongly covets, a la John Cominsky–who is roughly the same weight but three inches taller.) (4-2-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2023-draft-a-defensive-tackle-for-every-round/

NFL Draft 2023: Fowler’s Top 10 EDGE Big Board (5. Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  If you were to take the Northwestern logo off his helmet and throw on a Georgia, Alabama, or Ohio State logo, he may go top 10. Helmet scouting is unfortunately a real thing, but Adebawore possesses all of the traits you desire in a positional flex defender that could tease 10-plus sacks from both 3 or 5-tech.) (3-28-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-edge-big-board-fowler/

Defensive Linemen Lions Could Target in Each Round of 2023 NFL Draft (Round 2 — Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  Adebawore was one of the best performers at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. His stock rose as a result. A very good career at Northwestern went under the radar, as his team struggled to find success in recent seasons.  The Lions have shown interest in Adebawore, meeting with the prospect three separate times during the pre-draft circuit. The two parties connected at the Scouting Combine and Northwestern’s pro day, in addition to meeting at the Senior Bowl.  Projecting as a potential every-down lineman with the ability to stuff the run, he’d be an asset for Detroit’s run-stopping efforts. He’s also athletic enough to get after the passer, which would fit nicely next to McNeill and Buggs with their ability to plug run lanes.) (3-29-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/defensive-lineman-lions-could-target-2023-nfl-draft

Ranking the top DTs in this year’s class (Tier 3 — Early Day 2 guys - Adetomiwa Adebawore (Northwestern), 6-foot-2, 282 pounds:  One of the biggest winners at the NFL Combine was Adebawore, who ran a sub-4.50 40-yard dash for a defensive lineman, along with elite explosion numbers. He added to his already high RAS score with some elite agility numbers at his pro day.  Though Adebawore played most of his snaps on the edge in college, most project him to be better suited on the interior, especially as a 3-tech, where he can use his elite burst and quickness to his advantage. Having that experience on the edge is nice to fall back on, and teams are going to love his ability to line up virtually anywhere on the line, but he does lack the length and flexibility you’d like to see from a typical edge rusher.  If the Lions deem that Carter is not a fit for their culture, and they miss out on Bresee and Kancey, Adebawore is a fantastic consolation prize if they are looking for a more explosive pass rusher from the interior. The Lions also met with Adebawore at his pro day on March 15th.  How he fits: Projects best as a 3-tech but can line up further outside if needed.  Round grade: Second round) (3-23-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/23/23639576/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-dts-in-this-years-class

Is Northwestern's Adetomiwa Adebawore Lions' DT of Future? (3-16-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/adetomiwa-adebawore-lions-scouting-report

Adetomiwa Adebawore continues his outstanding offseason at Northwestern's pro day (3-15-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/03/15/adetomiwa-adebawore-northwestern-2023-nfl-draft-profile-pro-day-results/

Lions met with DT Adetomiwa Adebawore at Northwestern's pro day (3-15-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2023/03/15/lions-draft-meeting-adetomiwa-adebawore-northwestern-pro-day/

Pro Day News and Rumors: Adetomiwa Adebawore, Cam Smith, and Bryan Bresee Impress Teams (Pro Day News and Rumors | Adetomiwa Adebawore and Peter Skoronski Headline at Northwestern - Meanwhile, defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore continues to ascend up draft boards.  First, he produced three great days of Senior Bowl practice and an outstanding Combine workout. The 283-pound defender timed 4.49 seconds in the 40 and touched 37.5 inches in the vertical jump at the Combine, then a 7.11 in the three-cone and 4.19 in the short shuttle at his pro day. The shuttle time would have been the fastest of any defensive linemen who ran at the Combine, while only two participants in Indianapolis from the group ran faster in the three-cone.  Adebawore had meetings with the Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Rams, and Chicago Bears. Much of the Bears’ brass was on hand to meet with the defensive tackle, including general manager Ryan Poles.) (3-14-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-adetomiwa-adebawore-cam-smith-bryan-bresee-impress-teams/

2023 NFL Draft: Every top-10 edge defender's highest-graded season (ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN - Big board rank: 40/EDGE9.  Best PFF grade: 73.8, 2022.  2022 Pass-rush grade: 80.3.  2022 Run-defense grade: 68.3) (3-10-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-every-top-10-edge-defenders-highest-graded-season

NFL scouting combine winners and losers by the numbers: Defense (WINNER: ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE - One of the biggest winners of the week was Adebawore.  The Northwestern edge defender ran an absurd 4.49-second 40-yard dash at 282 pounds. His 1.61-second 10-yard split, 37.5-inch vertical, 10-foot-5 broad jump and 27 bench press reps were all above the 87th percentile for edge defenders as well. That performance likely solidified himself as a top-40 pick.) (3-7-23):https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-losers-defense

Biggest winners from the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine (EDGE Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  Adebawore began raising eyebrows in the pre-draft circuit at the Senior Bowl last month, where he was a standout in the trenches. He carried that momentum over to Indianapolis, showcasing his immense athleticism. Checking in at 6-foot-2 and 282 pounds, Adebawore posted a 4.54 40-yard dash, a 1.61 10-yard split, a 37.5′ vertical, and a 10’5″ on the broad jump. Before today, the fastest 40-time at the combine since 2000 by a player over 280 pounds was by Aaron Donald (4.68 seconds).) (3-7-23):https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-combine-winners-anthony-richardson-jaxon-smith-njigba-julius-brents-bijan-robinson/

Five prospects looking like Round 1 picks after combine (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern (Measurements: 6-foot-2, 282 pounds.  Workout (position rank):  40-yard dash: 4.49 (T5th).  Vertical: 37.5 inches (3rd).  Broad: 10-foot-5 (T7th).  Bench: 27 reps (5th)):  The first round is an encapsulation of the entire draft. It's way more about traits than the average fan thinks. And Adebawore has traits galore. This 282-pound man ran faster than 21 receivers (!), including one above in this article. Bananas. Truly elite explosiveness from Adebawore, which jumps off the film. Plus, he has that bull rush to win through blockers when necessary, and his 27 reps on the bench confirm that capability.   A decade ago, Adebawore would be labeled a tweener with a negative connotation. Defensive coordinators would've been perplexed about his pro position. Now he'll be deployed in a variety of alignments and roles and should thrive. He's not a perfect prospect, but those physical attributes cannot be coached by any high-level assistant. Oh yeah, and Adebawore has arms just under 34 inches. Offensive tackle length. Even though his pass-rush production wasn't first-round caliber, his athleticism undoubtedly is. He's become the classic athletic freak pick we see every draft late in Round 1. ) (3-7-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-combine-these-five-prospects-tested-themselves-into-the-first-round-of-2023-nfl-draft/

10 players who impressed at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine (4. DL Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  He came in at 6-foot-2 and 282 pounds, and put on a show with a 4.54 in the 40, 1.61 seconds as a 10-yard split, a 37.5-inch vertical and a 10'5" broad jump. Adebawore's 40 time was faster than Aidan Hutchinson's last season. He can play inside because of his size and certainly on the edge with those athletic numbers. He really helped his cause.) (3-7-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-richardson-gonzalez-kancey

Prospects at 10 positions who saw their stock rise at the 2023 scouting combine (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL/EDGE, Northwestern:  After seeing Adebawore preform at the Senior Bowl, we all knew he was a monster in the trenches, but sometimes that strength doesn’t translate to individual drills. As a 282-pound defensive end, we weren’t expecting him to run a 4.54 forty-yard dash.  Yet here we are!  We knew he was a strong guy, but his measurables only solidified that you can put him anywhere on the defensive line. In college, he played everywhere. Left tackle: 120 snaps, Right tackle: 141 snaps, Left end: 33 snaps, Right end: 42 snaps, Left end outside: 184 snaps, Right end outside: 173 snaps.  Any team that is using a 3-4 defense can line him up at the edge paired with an outside linebacker, and their side will be pretty difficult to stop. But he was asked which system he is more comfortable in, and he said 4-3.  With his ability to drop back into space, edge would be a great fit for him, but as mentioned, he can really line up anywhere.  In the 2022 season he logged 28 tackles, 27 stops against the run. When rushing the passer, he totaled 31 pressures, six sacks and three quarterback hits.) (3-7-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/pscouting-combine-stars-2023-nfl-draft/

NFL combine winners, losers: Who helped their cause in draft? (3. Adetomiwa Adebawore, edge rusher, Northwestern:  If not for Smith, Adebawore likely would have been the talk of the first two days of the combine. Following up a strong Senior Bowl week, the 6-2, 282-pounder astounded observers with a 4.49-second 40-yard dash as well as a 37 ½-inch vertical and 10-5 broad jump. Those marks all bested the numbers posted last year by Georgia edge rusher and eventual No. 1 pick Travon Walker, who had one of the best combine performances by a defensive linemen in recent history. Adebawore's ascent won't take him to the same heights as Walker, but there's little question his stock is on a rapid rise. ) (3-6-23):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2023/03/06/nfl-combine-winners-losers-anthony-richardson-nolan-smith-2023/11410657002/

NFL Combine takeaways by position: Anthony Richardson's speed, Bryce Young's size & more we learned about 2023 draft (Defensive tackles: No doubt about Adetomiwa Adebawore - Adetomiwa Adebawore, Skoronski's Northwestern teammate on the other line of scrimmage, also had himself a stellar combine punctuated with a 4.49 40-yard dash. At 282 pounds, that's crazy wheels for more of an inside-outside versatile pass-rush threat.) (3-6-23):https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2023-takeaways-anthony-richardson-bryce-young/ptpjkejssvw6s1dt6ghwfag0

2023 All-Combine Team, Defense: Edge Nolan Smith, CB Christian Gonzalez dazzle at Lucas Oil Stadium (Edge Rusher - Adetomiwa Adebawore
Northwestern (Best team fits: Chicago Bears, Houston Texans, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens.):  Adebawore introduced himself emphatically with a 4.49 40, the fastest of any player weighing 280-plus pounds since 2003. He was two-hundredths of a second faster than last year's No. 1 overall pick, Travon Walker, despite weighing 10 pounds more than Walker (282 to 272). Adebawore also out-jumped Walker in the vertical (37 1/2 inches to 35 1/2 inches) and broad jump (10-foot-5 to 10-3). His drills weren't quite as impressive as his testing numbers, but because he tested so well, a number of teams will surely take a closer look at him as a sub-package rusher who could grow into a productive 3-technique. The same explosion that was on display in his testing should benefit him at the next level. It certainly opened some eyes to his potential Thursday.) (3-6-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-all-combine-team-defense

Winners and losers from NFL Combine (Winners - Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern:  Adebawore would have been the most impressive performer at the combine had it not been for Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson. At 282 pounds, Adebawore ran the 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds after vertically jumping 37.5 inches and broad jumping 10-feet, 5-inches. For comparison, his 40-yard dash time matched that of Houston wide receiver Tank Dell, who weighed 117 pounds lighter than Adebawore. The Florida native also put 225 pounds up 27 times on the bench press. Teams will need to have a plan in place for his size, but he checked a lot of boxes athletically.) (3-6-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-combine-winners-and-losers-anthony-richardson-darnell-washington-rise-bryce-young-sinks-by-sitting/

15 players who needed to crush the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine - and did (9.  DE Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  Like Kancey, Adebawore was an undersized but productive defensive lineman who needed to prove his athleticism could either compensate for his lack of bulk or be the precursor to a position change. He had 9.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss the previous two seasons at Northwestern, and helped prove his worth with a strong Senior Bowl showing. Pushing that momentum into the combine would secure his place as a solid Day 2 prospect and possibly even a first round pick.  The result: The man weighs 282 pounds and runs a sub-4.5 second 40. This should not be physically possible, yet here we are.  Add in a strong showing on the bench press and big agility/explosion scores and you’ve got a player who measured out among the most athletic specimens in combine history. Everything about but his height suggests NFL stardom — which quarterbacks probably won’t notice when a 280-pound blur is bearing down upon them.) (3-6-23):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-combine-15-players-biggest-performances-draft-stock-anthony-richardson


Combine takeaways: Our risers, fallers, who's QB1 (Who helped their draft stock the most?
Adetomiwa Adebawore, EDGE/DL, Northwestern - Josh Edwards: Adebawore would have been the most impressive performer had it not been for Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson. He tested off the charts in essentially every category. He ran a 4.49 seconds 40-yard dash at 282 pounds after vertically jumping 37.5 inches and broadly jumping 10-feet-5-inches. The Florida native also put 225 pounds up 27 times on the bench press. Teams will need to have a plan in place for his size, but he checked a lot of boxes athletically.) (3-5-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2023-takeaways-whos-no-1-qb-plus-biggest-risers-fallers-and-answering-other-burning-questions/

Who were the winners and losers of the 2023 NFL Combine? (Winners - Adebawore, a 282-pound Northwestern defensive end, put up an all-around performance that Next Gen Stats recognized. He ran a 4.49 in the 40-yard dash and posted a 37.5-inch vertical jump. He added 27 reps on the bench press. Adebawore, a three-star recruit, was a consistent producer for the Wildcats with 23.5 sacks the last three seasons.) (3-5-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-winners-losers-2023-draft/ufchjhev3s5swxnc9uv7zlfk

Adetomiwa Adebawore lights up NFL Combine, boosting draft stock (3-3-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/adetomiwa-adebawore-40-time-nfl-draft-combine/py9i1ryoxvvrdzgmjnhebqbb

Quarterbacks take center stage at NFL combine, plus big men record blazing times in 40-yard dash (2. Combine roundup: Defensive linemen steal the show on Thursday night - The most exciting workout to watch at the NFL combine is almost always the 40-yard dash and that was definitely the case on Thursday. It was a wild night and I'm only saying that because defensive LINEMEN somehow stole the show. Get to know the name Adetomiwa Adebawore. We just told you that Kancey had the second-fastest 40 ever for a player who weighs more than 280 pounds. He actually held the record at one point yesterday, but it was soon broken by Adebawore, who ran a 4.49. Not only did the Northwestern defensive end show off his speed, but he also showed off his hops by registering a 37.5-inch vertical, which was the third-best among all EDGE players this year.) (3-3-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/quarterbacks-take-center-stage-at-nfl-combine-plus-big-men-record-blazing-times-in-40-yard-dash/

NFL Draft Prospects 2023: Day 3 Winners Include Nolan Smith, Adetomiwa Adebawore (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL | Northwestern:  Part of your interpretation of Adetomiwa Adebawore‘s testing performance depends on whether you consider him a defensive tackle or an EDGE prospect. Either way, you’re going to be completely and totally awestruck once you see the numbers.  Considering that Adebawore weighed in heavier than Kancey at 282 pounds, viewing him as a 3-tech is reasonable. At that size, with 34″ arms, Adebawore logged a 4.49 40-yard dash, a 37.5″ vertical, and a 10’5″ broad jump. Those are truly out-of-this-world numbers, and they could further fuel an ascent that started with a dominant Senior Bowl showing.) (3-3-23):https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-winners-thursday-2023/

2023 NFL Combine Risers: Byron Young, Owen Pappoe, and Lukas Van Ness Perform Well (NFL Combine Risers | DL and LB - Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL | Northwestern:  Tipping the scales a shade under 283 pounds, Adetomiwa Adebawore turned in an Olympian workout for a big man. His 40 clocked 4.49 seconds, his vertical jump was 37.5″, and his broad jump was 10’5″. Adebawore dominated all three days of Senior Bowl practice in January, and he’s getting serious looks at both defensive end and as a 3-technique tackle. His Combine workout will only further enhance the belief in his next-level ability.) (3-3-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-risers-2023-dl-lb-young-pappoe-van-ness/

TWENTYMAN: Combine Day 3 observations (Size and speed: Northwestern defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore ran the 40 in 4.49 seconds at the Combine with a 37.5-inch vertical and a broad jump of 10'5''. He's 6-foot-2 and 282 pounds. He joins Mario Williams, Rashan Gary and J.J. Watt as the only players over 275 pounds to have a vertical over 37 inches, per NextGen Stats.) (3-3-23):https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-combine-day-3-observations-anderson-robinson-smith-njigba

2023 NFL Scouting Combine: Standouts from defensive line and linebacker drills (DL ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN:  Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore was already having a good draft season after a great showing in Mobile, Alabama, at the Senior Bowl. But his combine performance took his stock through the roof.  At 282 pounds, he ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash with a 1.61-second 10-yard split, one of the fastest weight-adjusted times over the past 20 years. For more perspective, Travon Walker ran a 4.51-second 40-yard dash at 272 pounds. So, Adebawore ran faster with 10 more pounds on him.  He was already one of the biggest risers on the PFF Big Board. That will only continue after this week.) (3-2-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2023-nfl-scouting-combine-standouts-defensive-linemen-linebackers-drills

2023 NFL Scouting Combine stock up/stock down, Day 1: Nolan Smith displays electric athleticism (Adetomiwa Adebawore
Northwestern · DE:  Adebawore looked very athletic for a 282-pound lineman, running a 4.49-second 40-yard dash and registering a 37.5-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-5-inch broad jump. Adebawore's quick feet were on display during the on-field drills, as he hopped over and around bags like a stand-up edge rusher and worked hard dropping into space in linebacker drills. Though he measures under 6-foot-2, the former Wildcat has good length (33 7/8-inch arm).) (3-2-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-up-stock-down-day-1-nolan-smith-displays-electri

NFL combine measurements for EDGE, DL: Full list of heights, weights, 40-yard dash times for every prospect (EDGE/DL winners - Northwestern EDGE Adetomiwa Adebawore: Adebawore weighed in at 282 pounds, and then ran the 40-yard dash in 4.49 SECONDS. That's in addition to a 37.5-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot, 5 inch broad jump. Adebawore is CBS Sports' 89th-ranked prospect.) (3-2-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-combine-measurements-for-edge-dl-full-list-of-heights-weights-40-yard-dash-times-for-every-prospect/

2023 NFL combine: Nolan Smith, Lukas Van Ness among winners and losers in defensive lineman, linebacker groups (Winners - Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern: Adebawore measured 6-foot-1 and a half, 282 pounds; important context for how well he tested. The defensive lineman ran 4.49 seconds in the 40-yard dash with a 1.61 yard split. He had a vertical jump of 37.5 inches and a broad jump of 10-feet-5-inches. Adebawore is a strong player who holds his ground at the point of attack but showed the athleticism to be more in Indianapolis.) (3-2-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-combine-nolan-smith-lukas-van-ness-among-winners-and-losers-in-defensive-lineman-linebacker-groups/

2023 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Linemen (Up - Adetomiwa Adebawore, DE, Northwestern:  Adetomiwa Adebawore posted some ridiculous numbers at the combine. He ran a 4.49 with a 1.61 split despite weighing 282 pounds. He also had a 37.5-inch vertical and a 10-5 broad jump. Adebawore became just the fourth edge defender since 2003 to weigh at least 275 pounds and jump 37 inches in the vertical. The other three were J.J. Watt, Mario Williams, and Rashan Gary!) (3-2-23):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2023stockDL.php

NFL Combine Takeaways: Bryce Young, Jordan Addison, and Derek Carr making waves (Denver Broncos Keen on Adetomiwa Adebawore - Such is the case with the Denver Broncos and Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore. Denver sat down extensively with Adebawore at the Senior Bowl after watching the athletic defensive lineman destroy the opposition in Mobile.  Here in Indianapolis, they devoted one of their 45 interviews to going over schemes and concepts with the athletic big man. The defensive line is not a huge need for the Broncos, yet with starters, Dre’Mont Jones and DeShawn Williams set to hit the free agent market on March 13, it could soon become an area of need.) (3-2-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-takeaways-bryce-young-jordan-addison-and-derek-carr-making-waves/

NFL Combine results: 10 standouts from the edge rusher group (Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern, 6-foot-2, 282 (40-yard dash time/10-yard split: 4.49/1.64.  Vertical jump: 37.5, Broad jump: 10-foot-5.  A sub-4.5 40-yard dash at 282 pounds is next-level impressive.His jumps were equally rare.  Adebawore finished his season strong, balling out against Ohio State, then showed up big at the Senior Bowl, and now after putting on a show at the Combine, his stock is very much on the rise.  He’s not a traditional pass rushing bender, but he has fast feet when moving laterally, showed great balance when transitioning, and chewed up space when attacking vertically, getting upfield in a hurry. He delivers his pass rushing move without losing speed, and when his moves connect, they come with power. He also showed the ability to drop and maintain control during linebacker drills, further showing scouts his range on the field.  For Detroit, Adebawore would be viewed as a closed end that has the range to push inside to the 3-technique and apparently a sneaky ability to drop into zone coverage.) (3-2-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/3/2/23622075/2023-nfl-combine-results-10-standouts-edge-rushers-best-worst

2023 NFL Scouting Combine: Biggest winners from Thursday's workouts (EDGE Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  Adebawore began raising eyebrows in the pre-draft circuit at the Senior Bowl last month, where he was a standout in the trenches. He carried that momentum over to Indianapolis, showcasing his immense athleticism. Checking in at 6-foot-2 and 282 pounds, Adebawore posted a 4.54 40-yard dash, a 1.61 10-yard split, a 37.5′ vertical, and a 10’5″ on the broad jump. Before today, the fastest 40-time at the combine since 2000 by a player over 280 pounds was by Aaron Donald (4.68 seconds).) (3-2-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-scouting-combine-nfl-draft-winners-nolan-smith-calijah-kancey/

Iowa EDGE brings versatility and production that’s easy to love for Lions (Van Ness isn’t alone in that category. Fellow Big Ten west standout Adetomiwa Adebawore (Northwestern) is flying under the radar as someone with that desirable versatility. Adebawore moved around some in 2020 and 2021, then saw action from all over the trenches this past campaign. Pro Football Focus had Adebawore with 261 snaps in the B gap, 75 over the tackle and another 374 outside the tackle.  And while that’s impressive on its own. Adebawore upped his production to career highs in tackles for loss (nine), sacks (five) and tackles (38). PFF ranks him 45th overall, and he’s not getting a ton of love in first rounds as things stand. But it’ll be interesting to see where his name lands on boards after a week at the scouting combine.  “I think it just adds value to my game because you can put me kind of anywhere you want. So if you need a defensive end for a certain situation, you can put me there. If you need a defensive tackle, you can put me there,” he said. “Well, yeah, I started my career it was (Chargers offensive tackle) Rashawn Slater and then you have (Day 1 prospect) Peter Skoronski, who’s also in this draft class. So both are very talented, both got me to elevate my game, especially you’ve got to bring it with those guys every day. I bring it with whoever I go against. But especially those guys kind of helped my game and they’ve made me a better player for sure.”) (3-1-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2023/03/iowa-edge-brings-versatility-and-production-thats-easy-to-love-for-lions.html

Adetomiwa Adebawore Deserves More Attention (3-1-23):https://thedraftnetwork.com/adetomiwa-adebawore-nfl-combine-draft-2023/

NFL Combine 2023: Who Will Run Fastest 40 And More (Bench Press - Adetomiwa Adebawore DL, Northwestern:  Adebawore is extremely powerful in his upper half and he’s got meathooks for hands. He’ll do exceptionally well. ) (2-26-23):https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-combine-2023-40-yard-dash-bench-press-vertical-jump/

Combine preview: 10 edge rushers the Lions should be watching (Closed end/Subpackage interior pass rushers - With the amount of subpackage work the Lions lean on their edge rushers for, it’s a good idea to take a closer look at a few players who are natural outside/inside players.  Adetomiwa Adebawore, Closed end/4i, Northwestern, 6-foot-2, 285 - Adebawore will be lucky to crack 6-foot-2 at the Combine, which will lower his stock on some teams' draft boards, but he understands how to gain leverage at that height and he has the power to make an impact. Like Wooden, Adebawore may have a future inside at the 3-technique, but his flexibility to also play at closed end will make him valuable. His game against Ohio State spoke volumes.) (2-26-23):https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/26/23614572/2023-nfl-combine-preview-10-edge-rushers-detroit-lions-watch

2023 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge defender (10. ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN

20 Players Who Raised NFL Draft Stock During All-Star Games (Adetomiwa Adebawore EDGE, Northwestern:  I saw him push Notre Dame’s Jarrett Patterson 10 yards into the goal post in one-on-ones, and if there were any questions on his ability to overpower interior guys, all he did was answer them at the Senior Bowl. I expected him to rise, and any NFL club in search of an interior mover that can play all three downs should have him high on their board. He was fantastic.) (2-8-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-all-star-standouts/

Biggest 2023 NFL Draft risers from the Shrine and Senior bowls (DI ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN:  Speaking of interior players who can collapse the pocket, no defensive lineman at the Senior Bowl posted a higher pass-rush grade than Adebawore (91.8). He measured in at 6-foot-1 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, making him a unique player who can win with both leverage at the snap and length on his pass rushes. Senior Bowl week was his best showing as a pass rusher, as his career-high pass-rush grade at Northwestern was 80.0 this past season. Even if it was a small sample size, NFL teams got a good look at what is possible for a player with Adebawore’s build and skill set. That should boost him to a Day 2 selection.) (2-7-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-risers-shrine-senior-bowls

Senior Bowl 2023 Defensive Standouts To Note (Adetomiwa Adebawore DL, Northwestern:  I saw him push Notre Dame’s Jarrett Patterson 10 yards into the goal post in one-on-ones, and if there were any questions on his ability to overpower interior guys, all he did was answer them at the Senior Bowl. I expected him to rise, and any ballclub in search of an interior mover that can play all three downs should have him high on their board. He was fantastic.) (2-7-23): https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-defensive-standouts/

2023 Senior Bowl: 32 Players Sure To Make NFL Impact with Projections (DT Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern [Round 6]:  There will be scouts who question whether Adebawore has the length to survive in the trenches but he is too good of a player. His non-stop motor, strength and bend makes him a threat against the pass (31 QB pressures in ‘22) and against the run (27 run stops in ‘22).) (2-5-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-senior-bowl-32-players-sure-to-make-nfl-impact-with-projections

NFL Draft 2023 All Senior Bowl Team (Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern – Built with a low center of gravity, Adebawore used his frame to be one disruptive individual during Senior Bowl week. He packs power at the point of attack and plays angry. He appeared to be a handful for the National team offensive linemen. He made several of them look inferior in some drills. The stock is rising for Adebawore.) (2-4-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2023-all-senior-bowl-team

10 Senior Bowl prospects who helped themselves as potential Lions this week (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern:  His name is a mouthful and so is Adebawore’s game. The Northwestern strongman excelled all week at disrupting in team drills with strong hands, good balance and using his long arms to give himself space to operate on the interior.  Weighing in at just 284 pound at 6-foot-1, Adebawore is a bit of a struggle to project to a specific position. In Detroit, he’s a guy who can fill in a rotation with John Cominsky and Josh Paschal as the “heavy” end in both odd or even fronts. He does have some room to add another 5-10 pounds, which would allow Adebawore to also play more 3-tech if he’s drafted by the Lions in the middle rounds.) (2-4-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/10-senior-bowl-prospects-who-helped-themselves-as-potential-lions-this-week/

2023 Senior Bowl Practice Winners: Tyjae Spears and Nathaniel ‘Tank’ Dell Stand Out Most at Their Positions (Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern | Defensive Line:  Benton received recognition at this spot, but the Wisconsin DT fell off during practice on Thursday. Not Adetomiwa Adebawore, who got better each and every practice.  Adebawore came in 14 pounds heavier than expected, tipping the scales at 284 pounds, yet looked stronger, quicker, and more explosive than his college film. He consistently handled offensive linemen that had 30 pounds on him. Adebawore showed incredible athleticism, agility, and speed playing defensive end and defensive tackle.  How much did Adebawore help himself? Let me say this. Every draft, there are always several surprises at the end of Round 1. If Adebawore follows up his great Senior Bowl week with an even better Combine workout, I believe he could be one of those surprises.) (2-4-23):https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-senior-bowl-practice-winners-tyjae-spears-and-nathaniel-tank-dell-stand-out-most-at-their-positions/

Final Risers From the 2023 Senior Bowl Include Tyjae Spears, Jayden Reed (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern: It’s not brash to say Adetomiwa Adebawore was borderline dominant in Mobile. In team drills, Adebawore was able to use active hand usage to deconstruct blocks and generate pressure. And in one-on-ones, he blasted back lonely blockers with his elite explosiveness and power. Adebawore’s ability was always visible on tape, but now there’s no doubt.) (2-4-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/final-risers-from-the-2023-senior-bowl-include-tyjae-spears-jayden-reed/

Senior Bowl 2023: 10 players who made big impressions this week (1. Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern:  Despite his tongue-twister of a name (for the record, it’s add-E-TOMMY-wah add-E-BAR-e), Adebawore’s name has been on everyone’s lips this week after his dominant showing in practice. Though he didn’t much if any action in the game, “Double-A” was a 6-foot-2, 284-pound wrecking ball in one-on-one drills against much bigger offensive linemen.) (2-4-23):  https://www.mlive.com/sports/2023/02/senior-bowl-2023-10-players-who-made-big-impressions-this-week.html

15 Players Lions Should Be Impressed With at Senior Bowl (DT Adetomiwa Adebaware, Northwestern:  Adebaware is another Big Ten-based defensive tackle who had a solid week. Though he was competitive on Day 1, it was the second day in which he really took off. His performance was on par with Benton, as the two were both successful against offensive opponents.) (2-3-23):https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/15-senior-bowl-players-who-impressed-lions

Senior Bowl, Day 3: Which defenders stood out? (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern:  Adebawore is one of the biggest risers here in Mobile. He’s a big, physical pass-rusher who can work from the inside and outside. He explodes off the line of scrimmage using bull-rushes, swim moves and cross-chops.  His relentless mentality and toughness have him on many boards especially after this week.  Even though he only measured at 6-foot-1 and a half, he uses his 284-pound frame very well. His leverage helps him win most matches.  In his senior year in 2022, Adebawore logged 28 tackles, and 27 stops in the run game. As a pass rusher, he had 31 pressures which included 22 hurries, and three hits paired with eight sacks.  Adetomiwa’s wingspan is an impressive 82 1/8 inches which is the same as Andre Carter II, the 6-foot-6 outside linebacker from West Point.) (2-2-23):https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/senior-bowl-2023-nfl-draft/

2023 Senior Bowl Practice Recap: Day 2 (Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore has been a standout for two days now. He was a “winner” in the measurements before even stepping on the field as a 6-foot-1 defensive lineman with an 82 1/2-inch wingspan. That unique build allows him to get low at the snap but then create separation and leverage with his arm length, something he’s been able to showcase with frequency in practice at the Senior Bowl.) (2-2-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-senior-bowl-practice-recap-day-2

Wednesday Senior Bowl Team Practice Report: Keion White and John Michael Schmitz Shine on Day 2 (3 Linemen Make Waves on the Day 2 Senior Bowl Practice Report - Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL | Northwestern:  Adebawore turned in the “WOW!” performance of the day. He was unstoppable at both defensive end and defensive tackle, consistently beating opponents with quickness, athleticism, or sheer power. Especially during drills and 1-on-1s, Adebawore had blockers twisting, grasping at air, and sometimes pulling themselves off the turf, as he blew past them. It was a great practice for Adebawore.) (2-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/wednesday-senior-bowl-team-practice-report-keion-white-and-john-michael-schmitz-shine-on-day-2/

PFF's top 2023 NFL Draft prospects at the Senior Bowl and what we want to see (EDGE ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN (Big Board Rank: 73, What We Want to See: Being versatile — not a tweener):  There’s a very thin line between versatile and tweener that Adebawore too often walked on tape. He played 261 snaps inside, 75 over tackles and 374 outside last year. At 6-foot-2 and 280 pounds with legit bend at that size, Adebawore makes the most sense to me as a full-time edge rusher, but we’ll get more evidence for that over the course of the week.) (1-31-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-senior-bowl

Senior Bowl 2023: 5 Players Flying Under The Radar (Adetomiwa Adebawore EDGE, Northwestern:  If Adebawore isn’t a common topic of conversation moving into the latter portions of the week, then I’ll stand corrected. But with his twitch, length, motor, hands, and strength at the point of attack, I don’t think he’ll have any trouble wreaking havoc. He remains a sleeper in a DEEP edge class for many due to the decal on his helmet, but he’s at the Senior Bowl for a reason, and the narrative should change this week. ) (1-30-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-sleepers/

Top Defensive Linemen at the 2023 Senior Bowl Include Keeanu Benton, Byron Young (4. Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  The 2023 NFL Draft class is flush with hybrid defensive linemen who can play from both interior and EDGE alignments. Adetomiwa Adebawore falls within that category. But of that group, he has one of the most compelling combinations of explosiveness, proportional length, and functional strength.  Adebawore put up five sacks and nine tackles for loss this past season. But each week, it felt like the box score didn’t do his impact justice. He’s a constant disruptor on the line, whose high-end traits allow him to consistently generate pressure downhill. One-on-ones will be big for him.) (1-23-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-defensive-linemen-at-the-2023-senior-bowl/

Senior Bowl 2023 EDGE Primer: What You Need To Know (Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:  An inside-out versatile rusher, Adebawore has the chance to rise significantly in Mobile. At 280 pounds, he has no issue aligning at 3-tech on early downs as an athletic run defender, only to jump outside the tackle and rush on long down and distances. He totaled more than 60 pressures in the last two seasons combined.) (1-12-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/senior-bowl-2023-edge-primer/

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 30 senior prospects (15. EDGE ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN (BIG BOARD RANK: 49):  Adebawore is a uniquely built 6-foot-2, 280-pound defensive lineman. That’s often “tweener size,” but he gets by both inside and outside on elite athleticism. His bend and leverage are tremendous for a man his size and should make him versatile at the next level.) (12-13-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-ranking-class-top-30-senior-prospects

2023 NFL Draft Prospects Watch Week 11: Rome Odunze vs. Christian Gonzalez a Clash of Elite Traits (Minnesota C John Michael Schmitz vs. Northwestern DL Adetomiwa Adebawore - Last week, in Northwestern’s gritty loss against Ohio State, defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore stood out as a consistently disruptive threat on the front. The 6’2″, 280-pounder wrought havoc in run defense and generated pressure on the rush from a multitude of different alignments.  Adebawore is a Feldman Freak, with a documented 37.5″ vertial, 10’5″ broad jump, and a 6.9 three-cone at his size. That freakish athleticism shows up often on tape. It’s what allows Adebawore to be a mismatch on the interior, as well as a threat around the apex.  Along with his athleticism, Adebawore brings a hot motor and excellent proportional length, which he can leverage into power on the attack. His skills on the interior will be put to the test this week as he plays one of the best centers in football in John Michael Schmitz — an athletic, powerful mauler with the strength and leverage to lock down smaller linemen.) (11-12-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-cfb-week-11-2022/

Scouting Notebook Week 4: NFL rookies impressing more than their PFF grades suggest (NFL Draft
FIRST-ROUND RISERS - I came out with my first mock draft of the 2022 season earlier this week. There were numerous players in the first-round mock draft who weren’t even in the PFF top 75 prior to the season. I wanted to dig a little deeper into each than the paragraph blurb allowed.  EDGE ADETOMIWA ADEBAWORE, NORTHWESTERN (SENIOR):  Watching Adebawore move at 280 pounds is a sight to behold. He looks like an undersized edge rusher yet is built like a defensive tackle. It all adds up to a prospect who has given opposing linemen nightmares. His versatility will be his calling card, as he’s spent 129 snaps inside the tackles this season compared to 183 outside and still earned an 80.3 pass-rushing grade.) (10-5-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-scouting-notebook-week-4-rookies-impressing-pff-grades-2022

College football Week 5 live reactions, results, and takeaways (Adetomiwa Adebawore giving Olumyiwa Fashanu trouble.  6:00PM- The battle between Penn State and Northwestern pitted two quality line prospects against one another in Olumuyiwa Fashanu and Adetomiwa Adebawore. Fashanu has been fantastic so far this year, and he’s been good today for the most part. But especially in the running game, Adebawore has been a handful for Fashanu. We already know Adebawore is athletic — he was a Feldman Freak this offseason — but his raw strength and ability to hold blocks on the edge has stifled more than one outside run. IC) (10-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-5-live-reactions-results-and-takeaways/

Week 0 Sunday Stock Exchange: Nebraska trending down after Week 0 blunders (While Skoronski is the headliner, however, the riches are on defense. Adetomiwa Adebawore, an explosive 6’2″, 280-pound lineman featured on Feldman’s Freaks, made life miserable for Nebraska’s offense all day. Though he didn’t log a sack or a TFL, he was constantly pressuring from different alignments and compressing the pocket, allowing others to build on his impact.  Adebawore’s presence also helped create opportunities for the players in the secondary, who made the most of their chances.) (8-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/sunday-stock-exchange-week-0-2022/

Week 0 2023 NFL Draft Risers: Chase Brown, Cameron Mitchell kick off 2022 (Adetomiwa Adebawore, EDGE, Northwestern:  The stat sheet brings only a modest endorsement of Adetomiwa Adebawore’s impact on Saturday against Nebraska. But while he only logged four tackles, Adebawore was a consistent pressure generator. From both the interior and the edge, he drove blockers back, compressed the pocket, and made Thompson uncomfortable. His unique tools — 6’2″, 280 pounds, with a 37.5″ vertical and a 6.9 three-cone — makes him a constant nuisance.) (8-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-0-2023-nfl-draft-risers-chase-brown-cameron-mitchell/

Week 0 College Football Team of the Week: Ryan Hilinski and Chase Brown lead the way (Interior defender: Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern - Northwestern’s Adetomiwa Adebawore simply dominated against Nebraska. Going up against the massive 6’9″ Bryce Benhart more often than not, Adebawore utilized his leverage and strength to keep Benhart off balance all game long.  Adebawore followed that up with impressive inside and outside moves as he stymied ball carriers and got pressure on Northwestern’s four-man rush on multiple occasions.) (8-29-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-0-college-football-team-of-the-week-2022/

College football Week 0 live reactions, results, and takeaways (Wildcats starting to take control?
1:58 PM: Northwestern’s secondary is doing everything possible to stop Nebraska’s passing offense. Safety Coco Azema just had a superb deflection over the middle of the field, surging into contact and jarring Trey Palmer at the catch point. One of Azema’s best traits is his willingness to throw himself around and attack plays — both against the run and the pass.  The Northwestern vs. Nebraska battle feels like a war of attrition in the trenches. And slowly, the tides are turning toward the Wildcats, largely due to the presence of Adebare. On the last drive, he beat RT Bryce Benhart with a quick, violent swim inside. Adebare’s complete mix of tools is dangerous, allowing Northwestern to move him around and cultivate ideal matchups. For now, Thompson is managing. But Adebare’s continued presence may cause trouble. IC.  Adebawore’s appeal doesn’t just come from his size and athleticism, but also from the alignment versatility he derives from it. On one snap in the mid-second quarter, Adebawore rushed from the 3-tech spot and blew open a lane on the interior with relentless energy. Thompson was able to get the ball off quickly, but Adebawore’s ability to generate pressure from multiple alignments is truly invaluable. IC.  Feldman’s Freak List member Adetomiwa Adebawore wreaking havoc for Nebraska.  1:18 PM: Adetomiwa Adebawore is wreaking havoc early on for Northwestern’s defense, using his play strength, short-area burst, and aggression to seal off the edge in run defense, and charging hard downhill as a pass rusher, generating pressure. Adebawore is a Feldman Freak at 6’2”, 280 with a 37.5” vertical and a 6.9 three-cone. You’re seeing all his traits — burst, agility, power, and motor — today. IC) (8-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-0-live-reactions/

2022 Week 0 Northwestern vs. Nebraska: Live reactions, takeaways, and analysis from Dublin, Ireland (Adetomiwa Adebawore leads some impressive Wildcats’ defensive performances - In addition to being unable to run the rock last fall, the Wildcats also hemorrhaged rushing yardage. A retooled defensive front had some early struggles but grew in strength as the half progressed. They were led by 6’2″, 280-pound defensive end Adetomiwa Adebawore who was a disruptive force throughout the first half. The Feldman’s Freak has an alluring combination of motor, length, and power, and he’s dragging his teammates along for the ride.  With that said, Adebawore wasn’t the only Wildcat with some impressive first-half contributions. Cameron Mitchell — who many view as being a better cornerback than first-rounder Greg Newsome — made an important pass breakup against Palmer. The Nebraska WR also fell victim to a pass breakup from safety Coco Azema. Meanwhile, junior linebacker Graham Metz forced and recovered a fumble that stopped the Huskers deep in Northwestern territory.) (8-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/northwestern-vs-nebraska-week-0-analysis-recap/

Big Ten 2023 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Adetomiwa Adebawore, DE | Grade: 3.34 | Projected Round: 6.  Defensive end Adetomiwa Adebawore is slightly undersized, but he’s explosive, athletic, and plays with great intensity. He shows terrific speed moving in every direction and projects well as a Day 3 pass-rushing specialist.) (8-25-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-ten-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-scouting-reports/

Northwestern’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects headlined by Peter Skoronski and A.J. Hampton (Adetomiwa Adebawore, EDGE:  On defense, Northwestern will be led by edge rusher Adetomiwa Adebawore, who could factor into the late-round conversation in the 2023 NFL Draft. At 6’2″, 265 pounds, he’s a tad undersized and an average athlete. But within his boxy frame, Adebawore has good play strength and power capacity, and he’s a high-motor rusher whose effort is never in question. After amassing 8 1/2 tackles for loss, 4 1/2 sacks, three deflections, and two forced fumbles in 2021, Adebawore will look to reach new heights in 2022.) (May 30, 2022):https://www.profootballnetwork.com/northwesterns-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-headlined-by-peter-skoronski/


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