Lions Select DT Alim McNeill in Third Round

Lions have selected their second NFL Draft prospect of Day 2

The Detroit Lions have bolstered their defensive line yet again.

With their first of two third-round selections (No. 72), the Lions have drafted defensive tackle Alim McNeill.

In March, McNeill helped boost his draft stock with a very solid performance in all of the drills at his pro day. 

McNeill checked in at 6-foot-1 and 317 pounds. 

According to SI's NFL Draft Bible, "McNeill has to improve his conditioning as his effort level deteriorates after a couple of plays. He can lose at initial impact in the run game due to an occasionally passive playing style. McNeill projects as a nose tackle in a gap penetration style front who should play primarily as a shaded nose. His leverage and hands will provide pass-rush, but he has to improve as a run defender to become a full-time starter."

Barring a trade back into the third round, Detroit won't pick again until No. 101 overall -- the 38th pick in the third round. 

Picks made so far in 2021 NFL Draft:

Detroit's three remaining draft picks for 2021:

  • Round 3, Pick 38 (101 overall, via the Los Angeles Rams)
  • Round 4, Pick 7 (112 overall)
  • Round 5, Pick 9 (153 overall)

How to watch 2021 NFL Draft: 

  • Fri, April 30 (7-11:30 p.m.): Rounds 2 and 3 -- ABC, ESPN, NFL Network, ESPN Deportes, ESPN Radio
  • Sat, May 1 (12-7 p.m.): Rounds 4–7 – ABC, ESPN, NFL Network, ESPN Deportes, ESPN Radio
  • Online/Streaming: Watch ESPN, YouTube TV, NFL app, Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, fuboTV

Published
John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!