The NFL Scouting Combine allows teams to observe and evaluate the best of the best from the incoming class of NFL rookies. Additionally, teams have the option to meet with prospects. As a result, the Detroit Lions have a difficult week ahead of them. The defensive interior is one area where the team may improve, so general manager Brad Holmes and his staff might assess numerous elite players in the position. The defensive linemen will begin their on-field exercises on February 29, the first day of on-field activities in Indianapolis.
Here are five defensive line candidates that the Lions may consider at the combine. T’Vondre Sweat, Texas Sweat has emerged as a popular target for the Lions in recent weeks, following a solid showing at the Senior Bowl. His teammate, Byron Murphy II, is considered a first-round pick, but Sweat has recently entered the conversation. A successful week in Indianapolis might help the defender advance to the next level. His result in the agility tests could help seal his position near the top of the class.
Sweat has demonstrated hand strength and power, so taking the next step and displaying great footwork will only increase his chances of being picked on Day 1. Ruke
Orhorhoro, Clemson.
Orhorhoro provides a powerful pass-rush presence to the interior, having recorded five sacks last season at Clemson and 12 overall. He is 6-foot-4, but he makes effective use of his bulk to keep the pad level low. This makes him harder to block. He also has strong feet, which allows him to take advantage of slower offensive lineman.
Orhorhoro might benefit from expanding his range of pass-rush moves, since he is currently most effective with a bull rush. However, his good footwork will help him improve in this area. So strengthening his hands will be extremely beneficial to him.
Braden Fiske of Florida StateÂ
Fiske, a former Western Michigan Bronco, improved his draft prospects by performing well on a powerful Florida State defense in 2023. After four solid years in the MAC, he proved his worth with six sacks and nine tackles for loss for the Seminoles.
Mekhi Wingo, LSU
Like Sweat. Wingo has been overshadowed at times by a talented teammate with a lot of draft talk. He played alongside Maason Smith, who is likely to be drafted early on Day 2. Wingo, on the other hand, has achieved considerable success on his own. He recorded three sacks for the Tigers in 2023 and 14 total pressures. The Missouri transfer excelled as a three-technique player with a strong work ethic. Wingo is also a proven leader who would be an excellent cultural fit, having worn LSU’s coveted No. 18 jersey last season. He possesses a variety of characteristics, but demonstrating athletic ability during his on-field portions would be extremely beneficial to his draft ranking.
Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois
Is regarded as one of the class’s top defensive lineman prospects, with Pro Bowl potential. Though he has the potential to be a nose tackle, Newton excels as a three-technique. He was a wrecking ball at Illinois, totaling 27.5 tackles for loss and 18 sacks in four seasons. The defender moves with light feet and big fists, giving him a difficult job for opponents. His limited arm length is a source of concern, thus he will be an interesting appraisal. This, however, may be overcome, as he demonstrated in college.
