The Detroit Lions addressed their defensive needs during the initial two weeks of NFL free agency. However, NFL.com’s Chad Reuter predicted that the Lions will continue to add defensive talent after selecting Darius Robinson in the first round.
On March 22, Reuter projected that the Lions would select Robinson at No. 29 overall in his four-round NFL mock draft.
“Robinson displayed his versatility in Missouri’s scheme last year, often standing up at 285 pounds,” the report stated. “The Lions would likely use him in a similar fashion across from Aidan Hutchinson.”
Robinson’s strongest strength heading into the 2024 NFL draft is his physical tools, particularly the immense force he can generate with his body.
“Right out of the gate, Robinson’s physical attributes should give him a potential advantage in head-to-head matchups,” said Lance Zierlein for NFL.com. “He has startling strength in his hands and a twitchy upper body, which allows him to quickly remove blockers.
“Robinson’s power and motor increase the chances he becomes a good starting base end who reduces inside on third downs.”
During the 2023 season, Robinson recorded 8.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and one forced fumble. He also recorded 43 total tackles.
How Missouri Edge Darius Robinson Can Fit With the Lions
Since the start of NFL free agency, the Lions have added cornerback Amik Robertson, defensive end Marcus Davenport, and defensive tackle D.J. Reader. Detroit also acquired cornerback Carlton Davis and re-signed Khalil Dorsey and Emmanuel Moseley.
With those players added to the 2024 roster, the Lions have gained some flexibility. They could target someone they believe is the best overall prospect in the first round of the draft rather than focusing just on needs.
Robinson is one of the more intriguing talents and is expected to be available late in the first round. According to ESPN’s consensus draft rankings, Robinson is one of the top 25 prospects in the 2019 draft class.
“His length and explosive power make him a problem for interior offensive linemen when he kicks inside,” the report said. “Robinson is a physical and tough run defender with the strength to set a hard edge and the long arms to stack blockers.”
Robinson used his strength to record 13 sacks and 21 tackles for loss in 43 games at Missouri.
Last season, the Lions ranked tied for 23rd in the NFL with 41 sacks. Combining Robinson and Aidan Hutchinson, who finished second in the NFL with 101 pressures and led the Lions with 11.5 sacks, may give Detroit a deadly pair of edge rushers.
NFL draft experts identify Robinson’s athleticism as his weakness.
Robinson is an interesting prospect, in part because of the divided sentiments surrounding his draft stock.
While ESPN definitely considers Robinson a first-round prospect, Pro Football Focus ranks him 44th in the 2018 draft class.
Meanwhile, Bleacher Report does not even consider Missouri’s edge rusher a lock for the second round. Robinson was placed No. 73 in Bleacher Report’s consensus rankings.
Robinson’s strength is impressive, yet he is overly reliant on it. Zierlein and Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder have serious concerns about his athleticism.
“Robinson isn’t a high-level athlete, which is currently limiting his pass-rush arsenal,” Holder said in a statement. “He lacks the ability to shift directions and successfully convert speed to power, and he isn’t quick enough to win with delicate movements.
“He shouldn’t be expected to be a significant contributor as a rusher right away.”
In an ideal scenario, the Lions would draft a player in the first round who could become an immediate contributor. That will help Detroit make a Super Bowl run this season.
