Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: Washington at Oregon

Young Defensive Linemen

Vita Vea (#50, 6’4″, 322) absolutely destroyed Stanford’s offensive line in last week game. Showing a “combination of size, power, and agility”, Vea plugged rush lanes all night. While Vea is only a redshirt sophomore, he is already considered a day two prospect.

Redshirt junior Elijah Qualls (#11, 6’1″, 321), also a day two prospect, is a natural nose tackle in any defense. Qualls spent two years learning from Danny Shelton (first round pick of the Cleveland Browns) and has molded his game after him. While he isn’t on Shelton’s level yet, Qualls is a full effort, high-motor player. His quickness and leadership is a big part of why the Washington defense is so dominant.

Likely Day Three Prospects

Inside Linebacker Azeem Victor (#36, 6’2″, 239) is one of the best blitzing linebackers in the country. The redshirt junior is in his second season as a starter and has shown the ability to be a three-down player. A player described as a “good” version of Vontaze Burfict, Victor is still scratching the surface of his potential. If he continues to develop, he should hear his name called much earlier than his current day three projection.

Senior Kevin King (#20, 6’3″, 192) has experience playing both cornerback (current position) and safety. At 6’3″, King would be one of, if not the tallest corner in the upcoming draft. King is effective in using his length in coverage, but his overall technique needs polish. His length and experience will have some defensive back coaches begging for the chance to develop him.

Edge rusher Joe Mathis (#5, 6’2″, 255) could find a home as a 34 linebacker or as a 43 defensive end in the NFL. His stock took a real jump in last week’s match-up with Stanford, where Mathis made several key plays. Beginning the season with an undraftable grade, he has worked his way into the conversation with and impressive senior year.