Illinois DT Visits Lions

Johnny Newton visits Detroit Lions ahead of NFL Draft.

The Detroit Lions have hosted another top defensive line prospect on a pre-Draft visit this week. 

Illinois defensive tackle Jer’Zhan ‘Johnny’ Newton, a likely first-round selection when the Draft begins on April 25, recently visited the Lions’ Allen Park facility. Newton earned All-American and Big 10 Defensive Player of The Year honors with the Fighting Illini while posting 7.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. 

The defensive tackle has had an illustrious career, totaling 18 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss over four years at Illinois. His breakout season came in 2022, when he had 14 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. 

Newton is currently the second-ranked player in this draft class at his position, behind only Texas' Byron Murphy.

In his NFL Draft guide, ‘The Beast,’ The Athletic’s Dane Brugler explained that Newton is undersized for his position but makes up for what he lacks with skill, strength and a natural motor that would fit the Lions nicely.

“Overall, Newton’s undersized, compact frame will be a turn-off for some teams, but he is tough to block one-on-one, because of his gap quickness, natural power and nose for the ball,” Brugler wrote. “He projects as a dependable starting three-technique in the NFL.”

The Lions have revitalized their defensive line in recent years, as Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill appear to be solid picks in their respective Drafts. The Lions have also added veteran talent on the defensive line in the form of Marcus Davenport and DJ Reader. 

Ohio State defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. also recently visited Detroit. The Lions currently hold the No. 29 overall selection in the first round.