Lions to Have Pre-Draft Meeting with ECU Running Back Keaton Mitchell
East Carolina running back Keaton Mitchell expressed to reporters at his pro day that he has a scheduled visit with the Detroit Lions.
The ex-Pirates standout also has meetings scheduled with the Falcons, the Jets and the Packers.
In 2022, Mitchell recorded 1,452 rushing yards with 14 touchdowns. He also secured 27 receptions for 252 yards and a touchdown.
He was named an honorable mention All-American by PFF, and was named to the All-American Athletic Conference first team for the second consecutive season.
According to NFL Draft Bible, "Once he hits an open hole, even with a small amount of space, he is a home run waiting to happen. Mitchell is an experienced back with a good feel and rhythm in his running style. He displays good awareness, patience, and vision to identify open holes. By running with a low center of gravity, Mitchell possesses good balance and agility to stay on his feet, often gaining yards after contact. Although he does not have an overly hard running style, Mitchell will constantly churn his legs on contact and does not go down easily. When cutting and changing direction, he does not put his foot hard in the ground to make defenders miss but will do his best by utilizing his above-average speed. Not only can Mitchell be used as a runner at the next level, but as a kick returner as well."
OL also set to visit Lions
TCU offensive lineman Steve Avila, whom the Lions met with at the Senior Bowl, is also scheduled to meet with Detroit's personnel department.
Many scouts believe Avila best fits at the guard position, an area of need for Detroit. The team is entering the 2023 season with Graham Glasgow and Halapoulivaati Vaitai projected to play at right guard.
