Heading into the 2024 season, the Detroit Lions clear needs are in the secondary and along the defensive line.
At the recently completed Senior Bowl, several scouts took notice of Darius Robinson's quickness and physicality during drills.
According to NFL.com, "Robinson's 286-pound frame and quick hands made him a problem in one-on-ones at the Senior Bowl. Putting him opposite Aidan Hutchinson is a lose-lose situation for opposing blocking schemes."
In 2023, Robinson was a huge part of a historic season for Missouri. The Tigers finished 11-2 in 2023 and defeated Ohio State to win the Cotton Bowl.
The Michigan native and Canton High School graduate had 8.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss and 42 pressures while compiling a 83.1 Pro Football Focus overall defensive grade. In his five-year career, Robinson had 13 total sacks and 21 tackles for loss.
"I’m looking to prove that I’m the best defensive lineman in the 2024 NFL Draft," Robinson recently told The Draft Network. "I’ve played every position at Missouri. I’m versatile enough to play both inside and outside. I’m going to showcase how physical of a player I am.
"I have a very high motor. I understand how to use leverage to my advantage. I’m extremely violent. I’ve improved as a pass rusher over the years, particularly from last season to this year."
Detroit's defensive line is anchored by Aidan Hutchinson, who recorded 11.5 sacks in 2023.
Collectively, Detroit's defensive line only recorded 41 total sacks, which ranked 23rd in the National Football League.
Teams were able to average over five yards per play, and the Lions' defense struggled to force three-and-out's all throughout the season.
At 6-5 and 286 pounds, the Lions' defensive coaching staff should find his skillset suitable to aid the team take the next step forward, as they pursue a Super Bowl run this upcoming season.
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