Day 2 Draft Prospects for the Detroit Lions
As Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions gear up for Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft, speculation is rife regarding who the team will pick with their 61st selection. Despite having just this pick for the day, the landscape of the draft has created opportunities, as witnessed with a defensive talent landslide courtesy of a series of offensive selections in Day 1. With Holmes known for his strategic maneuvers, fans eagerly anticipate the Lions’ next move.
Top Prospects on Detroit’s Radar
Below is a look at the leading candidates on the board that could very likely end up donning the Honolulu blue and silver.
Illustrious Talent on the Defensive Line
ILLINOIS DT JOHNNY NEWTON, honored as the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2023, remains undrafted after an impressive senior season. Despite concerns over his size and a recent injury, his performance, which included 7.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss, marks him as a formidable prospect.
Versatility in the Trenches
OREGON G/C JACKSON POWERS-JOHNSON emerged as a surprise undrafted candidate after Day 1. The lineman’s versatility, having the ability to fill in both guard and center positions, along with a bulldog mentality, remains attractive despite his injury history and limited game starts.
Potential Wide Receiver Threats
The Lions might set sights on FLORIDA STATE WR KEON COLEMAN, who displays remarkable physicality and run-blocking ability, akin to an ‘X’ receiver. His addition could complement the Lions’ offensive arsenal, especially in the red zone.
Alternatively, TEXAS WR ADONAI MITCHELL could offer speed and route-running finesse, as well as the potential for early contributions to the offense, thanks to his 4.34 40-yard speed and ability to make attention-grabbing catches.
Interior O-Line Prospects
With the team keen on embodying the tough mentality championed by Dan Campbell, WEST VIRGINIA G/C ZACH FRAZIER stands out. His determination and football IQ align with Detroit’s gritty ethos, despite concerns about his athleticism.
Local Edge Rusher
WESTERN MICHIGAN EDGE MARSHAWN KNEELAND offers local flavor and physical play on the edge, hailing from Grand Rapids. His sheer effort and ability to contain the run are notable, even as questions about his pass-rush versatility linger.
Defensive Backs with a Versatile Edge
IOWA DB COOPER DEJEAN impresses with his flexibility across different positions in the secondary, coupled with his notable punt return skills. The Lions could equally target MICHIGAN DB MIKE SAINRISTIL, offering depth and special teams prowess, consistent with the team’s emphasis on competition and merit.
Offensive Line Depth and Development
BYU OL KINGSLEY SUAMATAIA, as a relative of the football world’s highest-paid offensive lineman, carries a degree of raw talent. The young player’s potential for growth, especially under the guidance of position coach Hank Fraley, is undeniable.
A Fit for the Defense
ALABAMA EDGE CHRIS BRASWELL might fulfill the Lions’ needs for edge pressure. His experience in a hybrid linebacker role during his college years hints at his fit for Detroit’s defensive schemes and special teams play.
The coming rounds will reveal how the Lions bolster their lineup amidst these promising choices, as anticipation crescendos among the fanbase.
