Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: Louisville vs Houston
By Erik Schlitt
Defensive End/Outside Linebacker
DeVonte Fields (senior, #92, 6’3″, 245) is the big name on Louisville’s defense, but his potential impact in the NFL has evaluators divided. A 245-pound Edge rusher/Sam linebacker in the Cardinals hybrid attack, Fields will likely be a 34 outside linebacker only in the NFL. This will cause large variations on teams draft boards depending on their scheme. Some teams will view him as a fringe first rounder, while others may not view him as a day one or two prospect.
As an edge rusher, Fields has shown an ability to operate in space and fluidly move to the ball. Quick off the snap, he can rush off the edge with speed and determination. His quick hands and variety of pass rush moves give him an advantage against most offensive tackles. But, an inconsistent motor and positional discipline are areas he must improve on.
Consistency has also been an issue for Fields. His end of year stat totals are impressive, but he collects his sacks in bunches. In the last four games of 2015, he registered nine of his 10.5 sacks on the season. In 2016, he only had 2 sacks over the first nine weeks, before collecting three in last week’s victory over Wake Forrest.
Strong Safety/Money Linebacker
Michigan’s Jabrill Peppers is getting a ton of hype as the next hybrid safety/linebacker to break into the NFL, but unless you’re a team picking in the Top-5 of the draft, you’ll be out of luck. Enter, Josh Harvey-Clemons (senior, #25, 6’4″, 228), who is likely the next in line to be drafted at the newly popular position in the NFL.
He’s getting some first round hype and for the right team he could easily be selected in the first 32 picks. But, the smart money is on him being a day two selection, somewhat similarly to the path Su’a Cravens took in last year’s draft (53rd overall by Washington).
An impressive physical player, Harvey-Clemons thrives in Louisville’s attacking defense. Linebacker size, safety coverage skills and a confident blitzer, Harvey-Clemons flexibility is the type of player a creative defensive coordinator lives for.
Like with most players in an attacking scheme, staying discipline is an issue. He will also have to explain to NFL brass how he’s grown after his dismissal from Georgia from multiple suspensions for marijuana use. He’s kept his off the field issue in check since transferring to Louisville in 2014, which will help his cause.