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Detroit Lions Draft Profile: O.J. Howard Strengths and Weaknesses

By Genna Preston

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) makes a move on Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) after a catch during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) makes a move on Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) after a catch during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Detroit Lions have several needs in the 2017 NFL Draft. If O.J. Howard is available at 21, his skills and athleticism would tremendously help the offense.

With the 2017 NFL Draft around the corner, NFL scouts and analysts have been graded this year’s draft class. Tight ends aren’t usually at the top of the list when it comes to first-round picks. Actually, a tight end hasn’t been drafted in the first-round since the Detroit Lions drafted Eric Ebron in 2014.

Oddly enough, this year’s draft encompasses several talented tight ends that may actually be first-round options. O.J. Howard sits atop of that group. His athleticism, versatility, and size make him an ideal pick for any NFL team. As a true freshman for Alabama, Howard quickly made a name for himself.

During his first year in Tuscaloosa, he was already averaging a little under 20 yards per catch. Throughout the rest of his career with the Crimson Tide, Howard had almost 1,730 yards on 114 receptions and seven touchdowns. Although these statistics don’t suggest he should be a first-round option, his athleticism and natural talent are enough to draw attention from NFL scouts.

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Strengths

Howard is extremely strong and powerful. His tall, solid build allow him to release from blockers. He’s quick and plays smart. His big hands allow him to maintain control of the ball. Howard has great eye contact and follows the ball through. He uses his height and frame to his ability as he out-sized most of his college defenders. His use of his upper body also makes him a good blocker when the ball is in route.

Weaknesses

His college statistics keep him from being a firm first-rounder. He will need conditioning and mentoring to help him become the player analysts expect him to be. His game style is predictable. If he didn’t have his height and frame, he’d be lost on the field. Howard needs to become more comfortable faking plays and outsmarting his opponents.

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Next: Detroit Lions First Round Draft Targets

Draft Day Prediction

Howard’s draft projection only gets better each day we move closer to the end of April. Howard is definitely a first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. As I said earlier, he would make a great addition to the Lions. Unfortunately, I don’t believe he will be available by the 21st pick. Look for Howard to be a top 10 pick in the 2017 NFL draft.

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