5 Linebackers for Lions to Watch at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine
Like every position on defense, the Detroit Lions are currently young at linebacker.
Malcolm Rodriguez, a sixth-round pick in 2022, emerged as a starter after a strong preseason. He’s considered a vital part of the defensive core.
However, the Lions still need depth at the position. This offseason is poised to have a strong free-agent linebacker class, but there are interesting options in the draft, as well. The NFL Scouting Combine will provide clarity at the position.
Here are five linebacker prospects worth monitoring for Detroit at the Scouting Combine, which begins Feb. 28.
Drew Sanders, Arkansas
Sanders will be a favorite of many teams because of his size. Standing in at 6-foot-5, he’s a strong figure who made waves in his first and only season with the Razorbacks.
Before the 2022 campaign, though, he was a rotational player at Alabama. He transferred to Arkansas, and took advantage of the bigger role. Viewed as one of the top linebacker prospects in the draft, he’ll have to prove that the production that made him an All-SEC linebacker a season ago is sustainable.
Trenton Simpson, Clemson
Simpson is a more proven talent who has versatility to play both in the middle and on the outside. The Clemson product can rush the passer, as well as fit up runners between the tackles.
The talented linebacker has the making of a solid contributor at the next level, though he’ll need to sure up his work in pass coverage. Athleticism isn’t an issue, so he could adjust quickly to the next level.
Noah Sewell, Oregon
The Lions could find a new linebacker in the form of Noah Sewell, the brother of the team’s current starting right tackle Penei Sewell. Though he lacks the size of his top positional counterparts, the younger Sewell packs a punch as a physical tackler.
He’s a run-stopper first and foremost, but has the versatility necessary to get after the passer. Still, his best placement is likely at the MIKE position. This would fit Detroit, as the Lions play a traditional two-backer system and he could slot next to Rodriguez.
Troy Wayrynen, USA TODAY Sports
DeMarvion Overshown, Texas
Overshown is a former safety, so he’s certainly an athlete worth watching. At 6-foot-4, he’s got ideal size to man the middle of the defense.
In addition to his size, he has the anticipation and speed of a former safety. Like others, he needs to demonstrate sharper technique. Yet, he’ll be among the combine’s best athletes, which could raise his stock.
If the Lions elect to focus on other areas early in the draft, Overshown is a mid-round prospect who would make plenty of sense.
Ivan Pace Jr., Cincinnati
Pace is a chess piece who will offer pass-rush versatility. First at Miami (Ohio) and then Cincinnati, he was primarily a rusher. In 2022, he was a unanimous All-American, after finishing with a whopping 21.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks.
Pace is one of the best pass rushers at his position, and could see time playing on the edge as a pro. He’s athletic enough to contribute in coverage, and has very few issues against the run. His measurables could be a deciding factor in how high he’s drafted in April.
