One of the common themes this off-season will be about how the Detroit Lions need to revamp their defensive line. There’s no questioning that it’s something that needs improvement. Especially since key players such as Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill are returning from significant injuries.
We have no idea how either player will respond to those injuries. The hope is that they come back faster, stronger and better than ever. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
With that, we know the Lions should be on the prowl to add to their defense, specifically their defensive line. Let’s dive into a player that has really caught my eye and is shooting up my big board. That player is SMU defensive lineman Elijah Roberts!
Background Information:
- Listed as a 3-star recruit (24/7 Sports) from Columbus High School in Miami, Florida. Despite offers to Florida, West Virginia and others, he committed to Miami (FL).
- After three seasons with the Hurricanes, Roberts entered the transfer portal. He had multiple offers to a wide range of schools but he ended up transferring to SMU.
- Played football and basketball in high school. Was a forward and center in basketball. Through 18 games played as a senior in basketball, he averaged 4.3 PPG and 5.6 RPG.
- Through 27 games played for SMU, he recorded 72 total tackles with 24 tackles for loss and 17.5 sacks.
- Suffered a hand injury in 2024 and missed game against Boston College.
Measurements:
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 290 pounds
Hand Size: 10 1/8″
Arm Length: 33 7/8″
Class: Senior (RS)
*All measurements confirmed via the 2025 Shrine Bowl*
Games Watched:
TCU (2024), Stanford (2024), Pittsburgh (2024), Clemson (2024)
Strengths:
- Can provide alignment versatility as a pass rusher.
- Good power rusher that can bull rush through offensive tackles.
- Able to execute and produce on T/E stunts.
- Looks to wrong-arm against pullers and split-zone blocks from tight ends.
- Does a good job anchoring against offensive lineman when stopping the run.
- Wins in a variety of ways with bull rush, long arm, ghost move, swim and double swipe move.
- Plays with good balance and burst when closing to the quarterback.
Weaknesses:
- Hand speed needs improvement — takes too long when rushing the passer.
- Needs to improve pursuit to the football. Has opportunities to clean up and doesn’t take advantage enough.
- First step explosiveness is lacking and can be a non-factor.
- Inside counters could get faster and more refined.
Overall / Fit in…
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