Top Performances from EDGE Group at 2024 NFL Combine: Detroit Lions Draft Board
The 2024 NFL Combine kicked off with the interior defensive linemen showcasing their skills on the field. Following them were the edge rusher prospects, and they did not disappoint. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the standout performances from the EDGE group and how it has impacted their stock on the Detroit Lions draft board.
Dallas Turner from Alabama had an outstanding day, ticking all the necessary boxes to solidify his chances of being the top edge rusher in the draft. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 247 pounds, Turner displayed impressive physical attributes. His speed was evident with a 4.46 40-yard dash, and his explosion was unmatched, as seen in his 40.5 vertical jump and 10-foot-7 broad jump. Turner’s performance undoubtedly left him feeling satisfied as he left Indianapolis.
Jared Verse from Florida State also had a solid day, showcasing his skills in both measurements and on-field drills. He displayed continuous improvement throughout the drills and ran with aggression, surprising many with his grace on the football field.
Laiatu Latu from UCLA looked confident and smooth throughout the day. His athleticism allowed him to attack each drill with ease, and his on-field work solidified his position as a potential first-round pick. However, his medical checks will play a crucial role in determining his overall stock.
Chop Robinson from Penn State lived up to expectations in terms of size and speed, running an impressive 4.48 40-yard dash. While he displayed some technique issues, his athleticism was undeniable. The only setback for Robinson was his arm length, which fell short of teams’ preferences. Despite this, he remains an intriguing prospect for the Lions.
Darius Robinson from Missouri may not have impressed with his straight-line speed, but his game film suggests he is faster than his 40-yard dash time indicates. As a former defensive tackle, Robinson stood out among the group with his size, power, and impressive arm length of 34.5 inches. His positional athleticism was evident in drills, making him a viable option for the Lions in the first round.
Marshawn Kneeland from Western Michigan showcased his ability to cover distances quickly, evident in his elite 7.02-second 3-cone drill. His speed while bending was also notable, and his solid frame and arm length of 34.5 inches make him a player worth considering beyond his 40-yard dash time of 4.75 seconds.
Bralen Trice from Washington faced some struggles in both measurements and on-field drills. However, it is worth noting that he persevered through an early injury and finished every drill, demonstrating his toughness and determination. While his stock may have taken a hit, Trice’s heart and resilience are commendable.
Mohamed Kamara from Colorado State may not stand out based on measurables alone, but his performance in drills was impressive. He displayed power in his hands, quick acceleration, and aggression in his approach. Kamara’s overall performance warrants further examination of his game film.
Myles Cole from Texas Tech emerged as one of the big winners of the day. Despite his size at 6-foot-6 and 278 pounds, Cole showcased exceptional athleticism with a 4.67 40-yard dash, a 35-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot broad jump. His on-field drills also displayed translatable skills, making him an intriguing prospect to revisit.
Jalyx Hunt from Houston Christian caught the attention of scouts with his impressive athleticism. As a converted safety, Hunt flowed through drills effortlessly, and his explosiveness was evident in both measurements and on-field drills. With limited film available, Hunt’s stock is expected to rise as more information becomes available.
The performances from the EDGE group at the 2024 NFL Combine have undoubtedly made an impact on the Detroit Lions draft board. These prospects have showcased their skills, athleticism, and potential, leaving scouts and analysts eager to revisit their game film and evaluate their fit within the Lions’ roster. As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see how these performances shape the future of these talented edge rushers.
