Detroit Lions predictive seven round mock draft

Round Five: Tim Settle, DT Virginia Tech

Defensive tackle Tim Settle of Virginia Tech has questions regarding his discipline and dedication. Going into his last college season Settle was challenged by his position coach to lose weight. He did so, and his play dramatically improved from previous seasons. He looked like an explosive wrecking ball on tape, like a lesser Vita Vea. The question is, when left to his own devices, would Settle maintain that discipline or fall into old habits?

Settle declared for the draft as a redshirt Sophomore, which is almost always a red flag for all but the most elite of prospects. His game is raw, and he has only a single season of production. At the combine Settle tested poorly across the board. That is never a good thing for a player with a reputation for freakish athleticism but work ethic concerns. I think it will be difficult for teams to look past that, and Settle is going to tumble on draft weekend.

There is a player worth investigating here, however. Settle has a few technique issues. He does not use his hands all that well. He uses speed changes and incredible single step burst to prevent linemen from getting their hands on him. If he were to combine that trait with good technique he could remind Lions fans of Shaun Rodgers on a good day. If not he will likely remind his team of Shaun Rodgers on a bad day.

At some point on day three of the draft, there will be a team that takes a chance on Settle. He was utilized in every position along the line during his college career, and versatility is something that Matt Patricia will likely prize. Settle could be the late round steal of the draft. He met with the Detroit Lions at the NFL combine.