Bucky Brooks' take: The Lions grab a sleeper prospect with the selection of Lewis. He is a bit of a tweener, but he brings solid rush skills and could contribute as a situational player in sub packages.
6'1" Height
32 1/2" Arm Length
253LBS. Weight
9 1/4" Hands
Overview
Lewis is an early-entry junior who will likely be moved back to his more natural position of outside linebacker. He played defensive end his last two years, and his frame bodes well for a move. He was a productive player for the Sooners who could even make the extreme jump from end to outside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme, considering that rushing the passer is not a key asset in his arsenal. He has fourth- or fifth-round value and should make early contributions on special teams.
Analysis
Strengths
Lewis is a strong player against the run and can hold the edge well despite often giving up 50 pounds. He has strong arms to shed blocks and is very good defending the run; Lewis can engage, read, shed and move toward the ball with ease and has a burst. He has the speed to run down ball carriers to the outside and is a good striker once he gets there. He is a tireless pass rusher who relies more on will than technique. He is active in the box and has some positional versatility.
Weaknesses
Lewis can hesitate at times when reacting to the pass and will struggle early in zone due to poor recognition and hips. He did not get many opportunities to cover downfield in college -- he was tasked more with mauling at the line. He has decent flexibility but struggles to reset his weight after dropping into the flats, and doesn't have the footwork to gather himself when covering running backs. He is a slow-twitched athlete who could struggle working against more explosive players.
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Grade
Title
Draft (Round)
Description
96-100
Future Hall of Famer
Top Pick
A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95
Immediate Starter
1st
An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84
Eventual Starter
2nd-3rd
A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69
Draftable Player
4th-7th
A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49
Free Agent
UDFA
A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
