Mocking the Draft wants to introduce you to an new article series taking a closer look at each team’s draft workings. The WarRoom articles will give you a glimpse at the recent draft history and the decision-making structure of each NFL team. We will also include our thoughts about the structure and draft history.
Detroit Lions NFL Draft WarRoom
Offensive Scheme: Offensive Coordinator Scott Linehan likes to run a balanced offense that works play action. The Lions are committed to establishing the run even if it doesn't produce the desired results. However, they are not afraid to open it up down the field mainly because they have weapons like Calvin Johnson. The one thing the receiving corps has been missing is a speed threat opposite Johnson. Everyone needs to keep in mind that the Lions are working to improve their talent so they are not able to run every play in the book.
Defensive Scheme: This defense was built from the defensive line out and that unit has a lot of talent. It has a good mix of young athletic players and savvy vets. Creating pressure with the front 4 allows defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham to drop more people into coverage. They employ a 4-3 base with some cover two tendencies but will mix in man coverage as well.
Thoughts: Since Jim Schwartz and Martin Mayhew took over, the Lions have made great draft decisions and filled a talentless team with hope. Their first draft brought them a franchise quarterback in Matthew Stafford and while he has struggled to remain healthy the future remains bright. Since the Stafford selection, the Lions have done a good job balancing their selections between offense and defense. They have provided Stafford with weapons while not neglecting the defensive side of the ball. This past draft they went out and brought in 3 players that will make an immediate impact and has some thinking a possible playoff run. Overall, there draft strategy has appeared to focus on best player available but I can see where need plays a role. This WarRoom is improving this team each and every year and have made sound decisions with their choices.
Five Year Record: 18- 62
Coach: Jim Schwartz
GM: Martin Mayhew
Draft History: Click Here to see a complete draft history
Best Pick: Ndamukong Suh
Worst Pick: Derrick Williams
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