Tag: Marshwn Kneeland

Marshawn Kneeland’s stellar NFL Scouting Combine should put him high on the Lions draft radar

Marshawn Kneeland’s stellar NFL Scouting Combine should put him high on the Lions draft radar

One of the biggest standouts from the first day of on-field workouts and athletic testing at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine is a player who should definitely intrigue the Detroit Lions. Western Michigan defensive end Marshawn Kneeland turned in an athletic performance here in Indianapolis that showcased a great deal of what Lions GM Brad Holmes typically looks for in a pass rusher.

Kneeland is a name every Lions fan should be aware of now, if they weren’t already. He performed very well in Senior Bowl week in January, often dominating 1-on-1s but also standing out in team drills. Despite playing in the MAC, he’s arguably the most impressive pound-for-pound athlete at his position, if not overall, in the entire draft. Kneeland, who has met with the Lions both here at the combine and in Mobile, proved that on Thursday inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

His rep in the hoop drill, designed to showcase balance, bend and explosion, was impressive, too. No sign at all of the calf injury that caused Kneland to miss a few games for the Broncos last fall:

Heading into the combine, Kneeland was generally projected in the 75-100 overall range. Based on the athletic testing, it’s now debatable that the 22-year-old Grand Rapids native lasts until the Lions’ second-round pick at No. 61 overall near the end of the second round. Expect a lot of speculation in the coming weeks about that potential pairing.

Taking a look at defensive linemen who fit what Brad Holmes looks for in the draft

Taking a look at defensive linemen from the NFL Scouting Combine who fit what Brad Holmes looks for

The first day of the NFL Scouting Combine has come and gone as far as testing and measurements go. Some interesting results with players both on and off the field have helped paint a clearer picture of what the Lions may be looking for.

Every general manager in the NFL has a type or style of player they like and look for when drafting. For Brad Holmes, we are now three drafts deep into his tenure so those traits and numbers are exposing themselves.

In terms of player size and measurements, there are several key players who fit within those parameters after the defensive lineman hit the field today. Here is what the Lions front office looks for and who fits the bill.