Detroit Lions Pre-Draft Visits: How They Fit And Where They Fall

Nov 15, 2014; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs running back Todd Gurley (3) runs past Auburn Tigers linebacker Cassanova McKinzy (8) during the first half at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Running Back

Todd Gurley – Junior Running Back – Georgia

Date of pre-draft visit: March 16th

Projected Round: 1st

Height 6′ 1″

Weight 222 lbs

With the departure of Reggie Bush and uncertainty about Joique Bell’s ability to carry the entire load, the Lions will definitely consider drafting a running back in 2015.  Todd Gurely out of Georgia is the top prospect and the Lions wasted no time bringing him in for and interview.

Here is what the scouts have to say:

"Reads the first line of attack very well and senses daylight to hit holes with authority and quickness to stick-and-go, accelerating extremely well in his cuts. Knows how to shift his weight extremely well for a 232-pounder and strings together moves with devastating jump cuts and long strides to eat up yards. Soft, natural hands out of the backfield and is a willing, cognizant blocker in pass protection."

The book on Gurley is that he is pro ready with top pick potential but concerns about his recent ACL injury and subsequent rehab will likely cause him to drop into the middle of the first round. If the pre-draft visit wasn’t just information gathering and the Lions have real interest in drafting him they will probably have to trade-up.

Other interested teams: Arizona Cardinals, San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts

Tevin Coleman – Junior Running Back – Indiana Hoosiers

Date of pro-draft visit: March 3rd

Projected Round: 2nd Round

Height 5′ 11″

Weight 206 lbs

Coleman would be a great fit for the Lions at running back.  His break away speed and pass catching ability will give the Lions the offensive dynamic they were looking for when they signed Reggie Bush.  Coleman could also be available for the Lions in the second round depending how the draft pans out. That could allow for Detroit to draft an offensive linemen to help clear the way for the rookie running back.

Here is the scouting report from CBS Sports:

"Hits his top speed quickly with long-striding acceleration and natural burst. Races away from defenders with his striding long-speed to hit the home run, posting an impressive touchdown distance of 40.3 yards and leading the country with eight 60-yard runs in 2014. Soft hands as a receiver and reliable catching the ball in space or tight spaces. Nice job bodying up defenders in pass protection and not shy about extending his arms and being aggressive with his hands, showing a lot of promise in this area. Has experience as a return man on kickoffs and could fill that role in the NFL if needed."

Coleman could be the right guy at the right price for the Lions if he drops into the late second round.  If he doesn’t there are other backs with similar attributes that will probably be available there if Coleman is off the board.

Next: Cornerback