Detroit Lions 2013 NFL Draft: Complete Draft Grades For The Lions

2nd Round, 36th Overall: Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State –

Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Overview:

Darius Slay came into the draft with reports surfacing about potential surgery on his torn meniscus. According to NFL Networks Greg Rosenthal, that won’t be needed.

"Reports surfaced on Wednesday morning that Mississippi State cornerback Darius Slay has a torn meniscus in his right knee, news that comes at a rough time for the borderline first-round prospect. But Slay doesn’t believe it’s a serious problem. Slay told Around The League on Wednesday that he was told by doctors he would not require surgery on the injury. Slay since has worked out for two teams: the Atlanta Falcons andPhiladelphia Eagles. Slay said he worked out for 16 teams in all, and only one asked for an extra MRI."

If this is correct, it’s a good addition to the Lions secondary. He has size (6-foot, 192 pounds) and speed (4.36 forty-yard dash which was the fastest of any corner at the combine) to succeed in the NFL. He has long arms that help him disturb receivers routes and breakup passes. He also doubles as a return specialist, which will come in handy for the Lions. His feet aren’t the quickest which aids his struggle to break on receivers routes.

My Thoughts:

The injury history is concerning, and his pad level needs to improve. But his physicality and athleticism are intriguing. Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham loves bigger cornerbacks, and Slay will certainly bring that. The Lions addressed their defensive needs with their top two picks, which is encouraging for the fanbase moving forward. With an overhauled secondary, it should make Slay’s transition a lot  easier as a rookie.

Grade: B