A Look at the Detroit Lions Signing of 2018 UDFA Beau Nunn
The Detroit Lions have clearly felt there was a need to address on their offensive line this off-season once again with the signing of UDFA Beau Nunn. Through every phase of the off-season so far the Lions have added multiple offensive lineman. In free agency, it was Wesley Johnson and Kenny Wiggins. In the draft, it was Frank Ragnow and Tyrell Crosby. Nunn from Appalachian State, is one of several offensive lineman added by the Detroit Lions through rookie free agency.
Since new Lions head coach Matt Patricia has been in Detroit, we have heard the importance of “being multiple” and how their goal this off-season was to add a level of toughness they felt they lacked. Nunn is the type of player that will bring that level of effort on every play.
At 6’3, 305 lbs, he is better slated for life on the interior of the line in the NFL. However, with the vast majority of his collegiate experience coming from the tackle position, he does have the position flexibility the Lions have been shown to covet since the addition of general manager Bob Quinn. Nunn has also shown that he possess the length the Lions have typically coveted under Quinn, as well.
Nunn was known for his ability as a pass blocker first during his time at Appalachian State. He mirrors his footwork with his hands well for a player at the FBS level. The ability he showed to move in space and set up lead blocks could be key for easing his transition to guard in the NFL.
Beau Nunn’s Impending Camp Battle
Ironically, Nunn coming from a smaller school in college is both a problem and a benefit for his chances to make the practice squad. Coming from a smaller school like Appalachian State has certain drawbacks like a lack of quality coaching, training, or development planning compared to big school programs across the nation. Not competing against top-level collegiate competition also holds you back in terms of how big of a step up the NFL will be for Nunn coming out of college.
From the coaches perspective, it could be a plus to his evaluation if he shows up big at training camp. It’s exciting when small school players come in and outperform everyone from the bigger schools. These players typically have more potential that can be unlocked through quality coaching, than their big school counterparts that already received it. If Nunn can come in an compete right away at training camp, in the Lions very busy offensive line room, he has a very good shot to make the practice squad in 2018.
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