NFL Combine 2017: Defensive Linemen, Linebackers Workout Schedule
By Zac Snyder
On-field testing at the 2017 NFL Combine hits the homestretch as attention turns to the defensive side of the ball with defensive linemen and linebackers.
An athletic group of tight ends stole the show at the NFL Combine yesterday to close out on-field workouts for players on offense. Add in a new Combine record in the 40-yard dash but Washington wide receiver John Ross and there was no shortage of intrigue in yesterday’s workouts.
Attention turns to the other side of the ball today with the first on-field workouts for defensive players.
Here is a rundown of what to expect, with details for how you can follow along on Sunday starting at 9 a.m. ET.
Position Groups: Defensive Line (groups 7-8), Linebackers (group 9)
TV: NFL Network
Live Stream: NFL.com
Results: Combine Tracker
| Time | Group | Event |
| 9 a.m. ET | 7 | 40-Yard Dash |
| 10 a.m. ET | 7 | Positional Skill Drills |
| 11 a.m. ET | 8 | 40-Yard Dash |
| 12 p.m. ET | 8 | Positional Skill Drills |
| 1 p.m. ET | 9 | 40-Yard Dash |
| 2 p.m. ET | 9 | Positional Skill Drills |
| 3 p.m. ET | 9 | Three-Cone & Shuttle Drills |
There may have been a lot of excitement surrounding what happened at yesterday’s workouts but today figures to be the best day for Detroit Lions fans to watch given the team needs and the position groups working out. There is a good chance the Lions could look to add impact players at defensive end, defensive tackle and linebacker.
The defensive line was a major disappointment last season as they failed to consistently put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With Ziggy Ansah out and hurting, the need for another pass rusher on the outside became clear, and the Lions struggled to generate pressure up the middle.
Florida defensive lineman Caleb Brantley told reporters the Lions told him they are still looking to replace Ndamukong Suh.
Caleb Brantley said Lions told them they've been hurting since Ndamukong Suh left and they need a dog along the defensive line.
— Justin Rogers | Detroit News (@Justin_Rogers) March 4, 2017
That is sure to bring up some bad history for many Lions fans, but none of that is the fault of the current regime. This is just another example of Bob Quinn and company having to clean up some of the mess left by Martin Mayhew and Tom Lewand.
Another player who could garner interest from the Lions is Michigan State’s Malik McDowell. The Detroit Free Press has video of McDowell’s podium session with the media yesterday. Take a look.
Next: Detroit Lions 7-Round Mock Draft
Workouts wrap up tomorrow with defensive backs.