A Look At 2018 NFL Draft Prospect Will Clapp As A Potential Selection By The Detroit Lions
If you are an interior offensive line needy team and you are looking for an athletic zone blocking lineman late in the 2018 NFL draft, you’re in luck, Will Clapp will likely be available for you early on day three. Fortunate for the Detroit Lions, as they are such a team looking for a player like the LSU product, in a draft class that is arguably deepest at this position.
Why Will Clapp Is Worth Being In The Day Three Conversation For Lions
One of the things that first stood out to me about Clapp’s game is his ability to target and attack defenders in space. He consistently removes second-level defenders when pulling as the lead blocker, as well as the screen game. While overall strength is not amazing, he possesses some solid footwork which helps make up for it a bit. His hand usage is quite good for someone pegged as a day three prospect. Can sustain blocks when he puts it all together well.
Versatility is a big component to what the Lions look for in their depth players. Having played at left guard the previous season with success he shows an ability to play all along the line – which is something appreciated by Detroit’s general manager Bob Quinn and new head coach Matt Patricia.
His ability to find success run blocking for Leonard Fournette and Derrius Guice the past two seasons – from two different positions – is promising for the LSU offensive lineman.
Why The Lions Could Ultimately Pass On Clapp
While the Lions definitely do need a boost to their running game, Clapp being more run-centric hurts the likelihood of the potential selection. Detroit is trying to turn their running game around. However, their identity is still very much in the passing game and with quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Clapp does not possess sufficient strength or size to be a good anchor on the line. His pad level pops up out of his stance often, which worries me with a player who is already top heavy. Staying balanced is a big part of the pass protection game, which is where he struggles.
Ultimately, he brings versatility and run blocking technique to the table. His length, hand usage, and ability to block in space should give most teams a reason to consider Clapp on day two. However, his issues in pass protection could be the reason the Lions move on from him in the 2018 NFL draft.
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