It is finally draft season for Lions fans.
Brad Holmes and his front office have proven they are very capable of putting together great draft classes. They have had major hits on every day of the draft, but especially on Day Two. This roster isn’t in desperate need of much because of his work, but they do have some positions that need to be addressed.
This offseason, they should be focusing on getting better play out of their defensive backs, adding depth on the defensive line, and building out the wide receiver room.
These scouting reports should introduce you to some of the names that Lions fans could hear during the three days of the NFL Draft.
Background
- Height: 6’5”
- Weight: 314
- 4th Year Senior
- Played Entire College Career at Duke
- 3-Star Recruit According to 247 Sports
- 2022 Honorable All-American Selection
- 2024 Senior Bowl Invite
College Production
- 35 games played
- 10 sacks allowed
- 22 penalties
- 2,134 snaps at offensive tackle
- 430 snaps at center
Notable PFF Stats
- PFF Offensive Grade 75.9
- PFF Run Blocking Grade 71.2
- PFF Pass Blocking Grade 78.2
Traits and Skills
Athleticism
Graham Barton is one of the most versatile offensive linemen in the 2024 NFL Draft. The biggest reason for that is his athleticism on film in both the run and pass game. He runs well, moves well, gets back to block, and is so fluid in his movement that he can move effortlessly as a play develops or extends.
Run Blocking
His film against Kansas in 2022 was comical with how much he flexed, no pun intended, his strength. He finished blocks, played with a controlled edge, and was able to pick up interior defensive linemen just as well as he did with linebackers. Whether he is inside or outside blocking, I have zero worries with his ability to handle NFL defenders.
Strength
Graham Barton is one of the most versatile offensive linemen in the 2024 NFL Draft. The biggest reason for that is the athleticism he shows on film in both the run and pass game. He runs well, moves well getting back to block, and he is so fluid in his movement that he is able to move effortlessly as a play develops or extends.
Trait to Develop
Pass Blocking
This is splitting hairs as Barton didn’t have a ton of pass protection reps under his belt. He has the tools and traits to be able to do it but you can tell this is the one area of his game that he struggles with. A little bit of exposure therapy should do the trick for him.
Fit within the Lions Roster
Graham Barton may be the most perfect offensive lineman the Lions could draft in April. He has played all over the line but is built for the interior. He could play center if Frank Ragnow chooses to retire or he could fill in at either guard spot. Barton would be a day one starter for the Lions and his versatility would only increase his value to this roster.
