5 Players Lions Should Watch In Week 5

The Detroit Lions moved into first place in the NFC North with a statement win over the Green Bay Packers Thursday night. If they can continue riding that momentum, it could be a special season in 2023.

As a result, the Draft will move to the back burner in terms of fan consideration. However, it's never too early to scout out the next potential crop of Lions.

Here are five players worth monitoring in Week 5 of the college football slate on Saturday:

Michigan DT Kris Jenkins

Game: 3:30 p.m. at Nebraska (FOX)

The Lions sent scouts to Michigan's game against Rutgers last week. Jenkins is likely a prime target for the team, as he is among the top interior defenders in the class.

He has been a strong part of the Wolverines' defense. Already, he has three tackles for loss and a sack through the first four games.

Jenkins is a stout run defender with the ability to get after the passer as well. Currently light on depth in the interior, he could be the answer for the Lions heading into next season.

Connecticut OG Christian Haynes

Game: Noon p.m. vs. Utah State

Haynes has been one of the most efficient blockers at the college ranks. He ranks third amongst all guards in Pro Football Focus' run-blocking grade and 12th in pass-blocking.

Detroit is in a precarious position at the guard spot. Jonah Jackson is a free agent at season's end, as is Graham Glasgow. Halapoulivaati Vaitai, meanwhile, has dealt with injuries throughout the last two seasons.

As a result, guard depth is necessary. The Lions have moved rookie Colby Sorsdal to guard, but his services have already been required at tackle. Should the team be scouting for additional help on the offensive interior, Haynes is a player worth monitoring moving forward.

Texas WR Xavier Worthy

Game: 3:30 p.m. vs Kansas (ESPN)

The Lions received big news Friday when Jameson Williams' suspension was reduced, making him immediately eligible moving forward. His speed will add another element to Detroit's offense.

Should Detroit be looking to add another explosive wideout to the mix in the upcoming Draft, Worthy would fit that bill. Since arriving at Texas, he has been a prolific part of the team's passing game.

Through four games, he has caught 19 passes from 252 yards and three scores. He possesses great speed as well as elusiveness. If he can fine-tune his hands, as he's struggled with drops, he will cement himself among the top receivers in this year's class.

Missouri CB Kris Abrams-Draine

Game: 4:00 p.m. at Vanderbilt (ESPN)

Abrams-Draine has been one of college football's top cover corners throughout this season. He ranks 10th among all corners in PFF's coverage grade with an 85.8 mark.

He has been targeted a total of 15 times, allowing five completions while notching four pass breakups and two interceptions.

Against Vanderbilt, he can continue rising. The Commodores' offense has struggled, and quarterback AJ Swann has already thrown seven interceptions. If he's able to play while dealing with an injury, Abrams-Draine may be able to add to his tally.

The Lions will have to decide on Emmanuel Moseley's future after the season, as he's on a one-year deal.

Abrams-Draine may be a middle-round pick worth taking for Detroit for insurance at the position for either depth purposes or to see him compete for a starting job. His instincts and ball skills fit Aaron Glenn's aggressive scheme.

Duke QB Riley Leonard

Game: 7:30 p.m. vs Notre Dame (ESPN)

The Lions are set at quarterback with Jared Goff and spent a draft pick on Hendon Hooker this spring. That said, Leonard is the quarterback with the most to gain this weekend and will be an intriguing watch.

Leading the Blue Devils to an unbeaten start, he has vaulted himself into the first round discussion. He features a dual threat ability with room to grow still in both aspects.

Saturday offers a chance for Leonard to prove his legitimacy amongst this year's crop of quarterbacks. Notre Dame is a marquee opponent, and the Blue Devils can stake their claim to the ACC throne with a win.