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

4th Round, 132nd Overall: Devin Taylor, DE, South Carolina —

Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Overview:

The Detroit Lions followed up their 5th overall selection with another defensive end, Devin Taylor with the 132nd pick of the fourth round. He’s massive —  at 6-foot-7, 266 lbs. with an an arm length of 36” — and ran a very impressive 4.72 forty-yard dash. He followed that up by displaying his quickness and change of direction quickness. The Lions obviously love the 20-yard shuttle for defensive ends. Ezekiel Ansah — the teams first round draft pick — placed placed first followed by the Lions fourth round selection Devin Taylor.

His best year as a Gamcock came in his sophmore year — when he racked up 46 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Since then, his production has decreased each season. Last year, he had only three sacks and 8.5 sacks for loss while being overshadowed by Melvin Ingram and Jadaveon Clowney each of the past two seasons.

With depth a concern at defensive end, the Lions jumped at the possibility of adding some at the bottom of the fourth round.

My Thoughts:

Mayhew made the right decision to add depth too the position of greatest need. However, Taylor wasn’t the player I would’ve choose.  He isn’t a crafty player, using his physical tools rather than an array of moves to beat the competition. He isn’t a quick twitch player either, which is critical in the wide-9 defense. He certainly has athletic upside, but I question his ability in the Lions base defense.

Grade: C