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: 5’10”
- Weight: 186
- 4-star recruit according to 247 Sports
- A four-year career at Michigan
- 2023 Senior Bowl attendee
- 2nd team All-Big Ten in 2023
College Production
- 107 receptions on 157 targets
- 1,707 receiving yards
- 16 yards per reception
- 20 receiving touchdowns
Notable PFF Stats
- 52.9% contested catch rate
- The 14.1 yards average depth of target
- 5.4 yards after contact per reception
- 133.1 quarterback rating when targeted
Traits and Skills
Route Running
Some of the best route running in this class belongs to Roman Wilson. He was Mr. Reliable for J.J. McCarthy in the Michigan offense, he will be the same for whichever quarterback he is paired with in the NFL. His routes are clean, fluid, and effective. All of this brings us to the conclusion that Wilson will fit on any team but could really help the Lions.
Release
Wilson’s release at the line of scrimmage allows him to get separated repeatedly. It is so quick, effective, and reliable that it’s almost robotic with how he runs it, in a good way of course—such advanced technique for a college wideout.
Separation
His separation ability was just hinted at and yes it starts at his release at the start of his route. It flashes more so when he gets a chance to show off his hips and footwork, time and again he sells defenders he is going one way before cutting another.
Trait to Develop
Strength
Amon-Ra St. Brown plays a similar style to Roman Wilson but he has the strength to not lose reps to NFL cornerbacks. Wilson will have to grow a bit in terms of strength when he gets to the next level which could be done. He came in at 186 pounds at the Senior Bowl so to see what he weighs at the Combine will be interesting. His style could use the strength, if he can get it then the results of his NFL career are limitless.
Fit within the Lions Roster
Ben Johnson has shown he can use Amon-Ra St. Brown everywhere as a receiver when the play calls for it. The teams needs a more dynamic threat on the outside and drafting Wilson allows for the production out of the slot to remain while also adding talent and dept outside. A receiving group of St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Wilson would be among the best in the NFL while also being one of the youngest.
