SB Nation predicts that the Detroit Lions will select Alabama’s Chris Braswell with their first pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
The Detroit Lions’ incredible season ended in a disheartening loss to the eventual NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers. With the offseason in full flow, fans are looking ahead to the 2024 NFL Draft, which will be held in Detroit. With the 29th overall pick, one sports writer predicts the Lions will address defensive weaknesses.
Detroit Lions expected to select defensive help with the 29th overall pick.
According to SB Nation’s Joseph Acosta, the Lions will draft Alabama Crimson Tide defensive tackle Chris Braswell with the 29th choice.
“Physical, high motor and wins with power, Braswell fits the type of player Dan Campbell wants on his defensive line, and also has the athletic tools to win at the NFL level,” Acosta said in a statement. “Detroit sorely needs a secondary pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson, and Braswell is the perfect fit.
Chris Braswell’s Scouting Report
For those who are unfamiliar with Braswell, here is a section of his scouting report, which comes from The Draft Network:
“Braswell maintains a tough stance and rarely gives in. He is a dynamic take-on defender who can stack, shed, and make plays on the ball carrier. Braswell’s lower-body stiffness makes it difficult for him to shift direction when pursuing ball carriers, and he occasionally misses tackles in the open field.
He is an above-average coverage player for his size, with decent zone coverage knowledge, but lacks the mobility to stay linked in man-to-man situations.
Overall, Braswell is an explosive pass rusher who prefers to go through you rather than around you. He profiles as an elite secondary rusher, but he lacks the high-end pass-rush characteristics to make a consistent effect at the next level.”
Bottom Line: What does Brad Holmes have up his sleeves?
The Lions’ success this season, which saw them advance deeper in the playoffs than they have in almost three decades, will only strengthen the fan base’s and team’s resolve to return next year and complete the job.
The 2024 NFL Draft will begin in Detroit on April 25 and go through April 27.
