Is Andru Phillips Lions' CB of Future?

Could Phillips become next Lions' standout cornerback?

Kentucky Wildcats defensive back Andru Phillips (23) breaks up a pass. / Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Unio / USA

The Detroit Lions have hosted several cornerbacks on top-30 visits ahead of the NFL Draft.

Among them are several players of the consensus top players at the position. However, they've also brought in several players who do not have first-round grades. One such player is Kentucky's Andru Phillips.

In the case of Phillips, the Lions have elected to evaluate a lesser-known prospect who doesn't have the sterling statistics that some other players at his position have. However, a closer look at his film suggests a player who's physical style fits defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn's scheme.

Phillips didn't have an interception while in college, but had solid production in the run game. He finished with a Pro Football Focus coverage grade of 72.9.

As The Athletic's Dane Brugler wrote in his Draft guide, 'The Beast,' there may be more to Phillips game than initially meets the eye.

"Although his production won’t jump off the page, his coverage tape improved each of his four
seasons in Lexington — and that continued with a strong week during Senior Bowl practices," wrote Brugler. "With his lower-body quickness and agility, Phillips can drive from zone or stay within arm’s length downfield in man. He prefers to play a physical brand of football, which is refreshing. However, his handsy tactics needs more subtlety, and his tackling requires better finishing control."

That physicality makes him a natural fit for the Lions' defense. Detroit also prefers versatility, which Phillips has. He played 426 snaps on the boundary last season and 223 snaps in the slot, giving him a two-way skill set that could set him apart.

As far as translating to the next level, his 5-foot-10 frame traditionally will lend to a role in the slot. However, he's shown an ability to mix it up that could help him compete on the outside against bigger receivers.

The Lions have yet to find stability at the cornerback position since Brad Holmes took over as general manager in 2021. In fact, both of the team's season-opening starters last season are no longer on the roster.

There are new names in the fold, as Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson give them two starters who could be impact players right away. Additionally, a healthy Emmanuel Moseley could give the team another starter.

However, Phillips' abilities would fit nicely and he could find his way into a big role early in his NFL career. That may come in the slot or on special teams, though. Currently, the Lions' slot cornerback role is occupied by Brian Branch.

Yet, with two safeties departing, Branch could see more time at safety which would open up the slot position.

Phillips tends to be up and down at times, but he has the versatility to find his way into a competition for a starting role early in his NFL career.

The Lions are always looking for competition, and Phillips would offer just that. If Detroit elects to go in a different direction with its first selection, the Kentucky product could be the perfect Day Two selection.