Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: LSU vs. Florida

The Gator’s defensive lineman

Junior defensive tackle Caleb Brantley (#57, 6’2″, 300) has the ability to play both the 1-technique and 3-technique positions at the next level. Brantley has the upside to be a day one selection but his inconsistent effort will need to improve for that to happen.

Matt Miller grades him out as a top 50 talent and included him in his latest mock draft:

"Brantley, a natural 3-technique pass-rusher, has the hand usage and leverage of an NFL veteran. He has been well coached at Florida to handle the run game and stack up blockers, but he also knows how to knife through an offensive line and use his athleticism to chase the quarterback."

Senior defensive end Bryan Cox (#94, 6’3″, 260) has dealing with a leg issues most of the season and it will likely keep him out of this Saturday’s game. Despite the injury concerns, he’s a name to keep an eye on. He is the son of 12-year NFL vet Bryan Cox Sr., who is currently the Atlanta Falcons defensive line coach.

Cox has lined up at right defensive end the last three seasons for the Gators. A reliable run defender, Cox is also excellent at setting the edge. He uses creativity in his pass rushing technique to offset his limited quickness. Cox is a full effort player, who relies on his experience to be effective.

Next: NFL Draft 2017 Top Prospects From Michigan

Lions Approach

Bob Quinn has proved that when it comes to the draft process, he is extremely thorough. He spent last off-season installing his approach to the draft and has set his expectations high. Because this is such a high-profile game, you can bet he will be assigning scouts to watch these players closely.

Previous Watchlists:

Alabama vs USC
Tennessee vs Virginia Tech
Ohio State vs Oklahoma
Georgia vs Ole Miss
Western Michigan vs Central Michigan
Washington vs Oregon
Stanford vs Notre Dame
Texas A&M at Alabama
Clemson at Florida State
Louisville at Houston