Detroit Lions draft target: Western Michigan’s Donnie Ernsberger
By Ash Thompson
The Detroit Lions opted not to carry a fullback on the roster in 2017. It was clear that they made a mistake. Donie Ernsberger could fix that mistake, sort of.
The Detroit Lions used linebacker Nick Bellore as their fullback in 2017. That was one of many poor decisions relating to the running game that resulted in a historically poor performance. The others were making Ron Prince the offensive line coach in 2015 and assuming Ameer Abdullah was going to come all the way back from a serious foot injury in one year for the 2017 season.
The team has brought in LeGarrette Blount to handle some of the heavy lifting at the running back spot. Blount is a powerful runner. He is capable of getting a yard by himself when the line fails to get it for him. The Lions were missing that element until late in 2017 when Tion Green added a lesser version. They have also brought in Jeff Davidson to coach the offensive line. Since 2007 Davidson coached teams have finished outside the top 16 in rushing once. They finished in the top ten six of 11 seasons. But what about the Fullback spot?
Donnie Ernsberger is a two-time All-MAC performer at the as a Tight End/Fullback for the Western Michigan Broncos. From Battle Creek, Michigan, this local product has shown ability as both a run blocker and pass catcher from both spots. The Lions have taken advantage of the fact that they can work out an infinite number of local prospects. They have taken a look Ernsberger’s way. Ernsberger could find a similar niche in the NFL.
Ernsberger is a 6’3″ 241 lb blocking machine. He doesn’t have top-tier athleticism, explosiveness, or power numbers on paper, but he has been an effective member of a rushing attack that has finished in the top 25 in the nation for two consecutive seasons. When he lines up an opponent and explodes into them, he moves the pile in the right direction. He does occasionally miss the mark, however, and will need to work on consistently keeping his head up at the next level.
As a receiver Ernsberger relies on deception to get open. His acumen as a blocker is his greatest asset. He is quite skilled at selling a block before entering his route. His burst and quickness are not going to do the job of getting him open in the NFL. He catches the ball reasonably well, with a few, but not too many double clutches and body catches. With the ball in his hands, he gets upfield. There is not a lot of sizzle to go with his steak, but Ernsberger will truck defensive backs that come in high for tackles. He is a fun player to watch for those who appreciate a throwback player.
Next: Lions draft target: Orlando Brown
Positional diversity and a good attitude will get Ernsberger an invite to camp if he isn’t drafted. He may be the kind of guy that ends his career with more special teams tackles than receptions, but teams need guys like that to win.