NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Redskins end up with a first-round quarterback, go defense in Round 2
Defensive Lineman. Houston. Ed Oliver. 8. player. 50.
The Lions did well to acquire Damon “Snacks” Harrison before the trade deadline to shore up their run defense a bit. However, they could still use some extra pass rushing talent on the defensive line and may need a versatile piece to help them out. For that reason, the team will be interested in many of the top defensive linemen at this pick, but Ed Oliver is the best one available.
Oliver was a three-year starter at Houston and was a monster for the team. In three seasons, he totaled an absurd 53 tackles for loss and a solid 13.5 sacks. He was able to shoot through gaps quickly, and it’s clear that for the next level he will be able to get into backfields quickly and be a weapon.
However, there are some minor concerns about Oliver’s size. He has a 6-foot-2 frame and weighs just about 280 pounds. That’s a bit small for an NFL defensive tackle — at least as an every down player — and if he can’t bulk up and play at a larger size while keeping his overall athletic ability, it may be difficult for him to find a fit on a team.
That said, in a 4-3 defense, Oliver could easily play the edge if things don’t work out inside. Matt Patricia and company can decide whether or not he’s a good fit for their defense depending on whether or not he can bulk up. And if he can’t make a big enough impact there, they can kick him to end and help provide them with an upper-tier option there.
It will be interesting to see where Oliver lands and what his true position will end up being. But for now, his fit with the Lions looks like a solid one and he should go in the top 15 picks at the very least.