Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill made significant strides in his third season, focusing on improving flexibility and trimming body fat. These efforts paid off with a faster, more explosive performance, setting career highs in sacks and quarterback hits. He played a crucial role in Detroit’s second-ranked run defense.
McNeill and edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson were the standout defenders for the Lions last season. The team may look to bolster their defensive front by adding a complementary player to support both talents.
Benito Jones started 15 games next to McNeill, contributing 26 tackles and a sack in all 17 games last season. Jones, a restricted free agent, and Tyson Alualu, an unrestricted free agent, could alter the team’s defensive line makeup.
Brodric Martin, last year’s third-round pick, is expected to make significant strides in his second year, with the Lions counting on him to be a key contributor.
The upcoming draft isn’t rich in interior defenders, but there are prospects with versatility and immediate impact potential. Among the top prospects to watch at the Combine are Jer’Zhan Newton from Illinois, known for his diverse pass-rush moves, and Byron Murphy II from Texas, praised for his strength and quickness.
T’Vondre Sweat from Texas, Kris Jenkins Jr. from Michigan, and Michael Hall Jr. from Ohio State are also notable prospects to keep an eye on.
Braden Fiske from Florida State, a transfer from Western Michigan, is a sleeper to watch, having been named second-team All-ACC with six sacks and 28 quarterback pressures.
The Lions’ need for defensive tackles is moderate, as they value versatile linemen who can play multiple positions. While Martin aims for development and Levi Onwuzurike has one year left on his deal to prove his reliability, there’s still room for improvement in the defensive front.
Key statistics from last season show Detroit’s impressive run defense, allowing 100 or more rushing yards in only five games, the fewest in the NFL. They also limited opponents to just five rushes of 20 or more yards, tied for the second-lowest in the league.
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