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Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: LSU vs. Florida

By Erik Schlitt

Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Bryan Cox (94) in the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Bryan Cox (94) in the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /
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LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52). Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52). Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

Kendell Beckwith
Senior
#52
Inside Linebacker
6’2″, 252

Early Draft Projection = Early Day 3

An every down linebacker, Beckwith has experience playing inside in both a 43 and 34 defenses. While he currently has a round four draft grade, he’s the type of player who could rise up the draft boards of teams who are looking for a downhill, old school linebacker.

Biggest Strengths:

  • Fundamentally sound tackler
  • Understands how to leverage to finish
  • Three-down linebacker

Biggest Weaknesses:

  • Waits for ball carrier to get to him too often
  • Speed limits range
  • Tight hips

Unless things change for Detroit, the Lions will be in the market for multiple linebackers this coming off-season. While Tahir Whitehead is the established middle linebacker, his versatility gives the Lions options to pursue all types of linebackers. While Beckwith plays inside at LSU, he is position flexible and doesn’t need to leave the field in different defensive formations. Pairing Whitehead and Beckwith would give Detroit two linebackers who can play all three-downs, regardless of Levy’s status.

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