Detroit Lions Draft 2017: A Defensive End for Every Round

Round 5

As the draft goes on, talent can still be found but uncertainty increases. TCU’s Josh Carraway fits that category as a player who is certainly not a sure bet but could turn into something. On day three, prospects will have flaw but it’s about weighing those flaws against upside, potential, draft value and opportunity cost.

Lance Zierlein had the following to say in his profile of Carraway for NFL.com:

"Several boxes go unchecked for Carraway, but his outstanding athleticism and potential as an edge rusher will provide draft value. His instincts are a long way off and he lacks the functional strength and toughness at the point of attack that most teams require on the edge, but a big combine could heat his draft stock up. He will require patience and much more technique work, but he does possess NFL traits as a developmental prospect."

Carraway went on to become one of the top defensive line performers in the 60 yard shuttle but didn’t otherwise have the kind of Combine that should warrant consideration earlier in the draft.

At this point, no prospect is perfect and Zierlein notes Carraway does at least have traits worth taking a look as a player who could later blossom.