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Defensive Line Coach Explains How Lions' Roster Could Be Utilized

Defensive line coach Todd Wash discusses some potential roles he envisions for the Detroit Lions' defensive line.
John Maakaron|
Defensive Line Coach Explains How Lions' Roster Could Be Utilized
Defensive Line Coach Explains How Lions' Roster Could Be Utilized

When the Detroit Lions utilized draft selections to address both the offensive and defensive line, it signaled the importance of building through the trenches.  

Rookies Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill will be tasked with becoming disruptors -- with the hopes of aiding the Lions' defensive line get to the quarterback and stop the oppositions rushing attack.

New defensive line coach Todd Wash says it was like 'Christmas' getting both Onwuzurike and McNeill in this year's draft.

During his media session with reporters, Wash also explained how he envisioned utilizing some of the talent he has inherited on the roster. 

He expressed on Thursday that he envisions veteran Trey Flowers playing outside linebacker in the 3-4 base defense and defensive end in Detroit's sub packages.

“With outside linebackers, we look for three different characteristics," Wash explained. "Obviously, you’ve got to be able to rush the passer. We’re looking for somebody that can set the edge. The rest of us will build a wall inside to help stop the run and knock them back. And then third is they need to be serviceable in coverage."

In a more refreshing tone, Wash was more than willing to tackle scheme and personnel related questions during his media session. 

Wash further added that Onwuzurike will play defensive end in base 3-4 and move inside in sub packages. He expressed McNeill will play nose tackle in the 3-4 scheme. 

Based on Wash's comments, here is an early projection of the Lions defensive line in the  3-4 base defense. 

  • Trey Flowers - Outside linebacker
  • Levi Onwuzurike - Defensive end
  • Alim McNeill - Nose tackle
  • Michael Brockers - 4i 
  • Romeo Okwara - Outside linebacker
  • Alex Anzalone - Inside linebacker
  • Jamie Collins Sr. - MIKE linebacker

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

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