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3 rookies crack Detroit Lions’ projected depth chart following 2021 NFL draft
Updated 10:33 AM;
Today 9:43 AM
PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 01: Oregon Ducks (58) Penei Sewell (OL) stands on a ladder in front of the Ducks band on the field after the Ducks defeated the Wisconsin Badgers 28 to 27 to become the 2010 Rose Bowl Champions in a bowl game played on January 1, 2020 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
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ALLEN PARK Penei Sewell will start right away at right tackle for the Detroit Lions or something has gone terribly wrong. He’s that good, and he’s that ready after opting out of his final season at Oregon.
2021 NFL draft preview: The Lions need defensive line help, but this class offers few options
Updated Apr 28, 2021;
Posted Apr 28, 2021
Michigan defensive lineman Kwity Paye (19) looks to chase down the play in the first quarter of their Vrbo Citrus Bowl game against Alabama at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, on Wednesday, January 1, 2020. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.com
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Projected starters: DE Trey Flowers, DT John Penisini, DT Michael Brockers, DE Romeo Okwara
Projected reserves: DE Julian Okwara, DE Austin Bryant, DE Charles Harris, DE Robert McCray, DT Nick Williams, DT Da’Shawn Hand, DT Jashon Cornell, DT Kevin Strong, DT John Atkins, DT Joel Heath
The Lions absolutely will be looking for upgrades in the draft, though their best bet for depth may be having some of their young pass rushers pan out. Austin Bryant and Julian Okwara, mid-round picks in 2019 and 2020, respectively, will have a chance to earn playing time this fall after injury riddled starts to their careers, and the Lions signed Charles Harris to add a veteran pass rushing presence in sub packages.
Inside, John Penisini was a sixth-round gem last season who should start at nose tackle this fall. Depth remains an issue, though, as Nick Williams and Da’Shawn Hand are coming off disappointing seasons and both are in the last season of their contracts.