A Look At The Top 20 Impact Players For The 2018 Lions. #17 – Da’Shawn Hand.
This pick was an tough one when I was deciding who would make the top 20 and then what order I would put them in. Da’Shawn Hand fluctuated between the 15-25 mark on my list but I’ve decided to go riskier with my selection and put him higher up than some might. A 4th round talent won’t be expected to make a huge impact but in theory, he is seen as a 3rd round talent when you take into account the trading of picks the Lions did to acquire him.
During college, he was forecast as being a top recruit and destined for NFL success. While he didn’t hit the heights that were projected of him in college the potential to do so in the NFL is still there. He was on a very good Alabama defensive line which brought with it tough competition for places. However, he has come into a line with the Lions that is calling out for star talent, so solidifying his place could be easier. His versatility will help with this as he can line up at any position across the defensive front, a trait that Matt Patricia will certainly use and value.
I believe the defensive line will have a huge task this year to step up and perform as the secondary has improved on paper after an already impressive outing last campaign. That will give the line more of a chance to make plays, a line which I think Da’Shawn Hand will have a large impact on.
Top 20 countdown so far:
Thanks for checking out the article everyone. Go Lions! Let me know what you think on Twitter @Alex_Watt_Lions and be sure to join the community on the Detroit Lions subreddit.
