Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: Clemson vs Florida State
By Erik Schlitt
The Quarterback
Originally touted as the preseason leading candidate to be the #1 pick overall in the upcoming draft, Deshaun Watson (#4, 6’2″, 210) has failed to live up to those expectations in 2016. While still only a junior, his skill set is still unique enough, that he’ll be in the first round conversation if he declares.
Consistency has been Watson’s biggest obstacle this season but teams looking for the next Marcus Mariota will be willing to take a risk on being able to develop him. Detroit is most definitely not in this group of quarterback needy teams.
The Wide Receiver
Junior Mike Williams (#7, 6’3″, 220) missed the 2015 season with a broken bone in his neck. Williams has impressive size and he uses it to his advantage. His combination of short area burst and long stride length, are difficult for most defensive backs to handle. Surprisingly fluid for a big wide receiver, his routes are smooth and he uses his long frame to create a large target for Watson. Williams is an ideal target for back shoulder end zone throws.
While Williams has rare physical traits, he also still has some real problems to overcome if he wants to be selected in the first round. First and foremost, he needs to check out medically. While he looks like he has returned to full health, neck injuries will be real scary to a franchise willing to invest a first round pick in him. On top of that, he has had far too many drops this season.
Again Mike Williams loses a contested catch. Really surprising how bad he is with those given his size
— Jeff Risdon (@JeffRisdon) October 15, 2016
Some scouts will attribute the drops to him knocking off the rust, but it’s another potential issue to consider. If he declares, a team will likely be willing to take a risk on him early because of his upside. But that team won’t be Detroit.