Handing Out Grades for the Detroit Lions’ 2020 NFL Draft Class
#197: John Penisini, Defensive Tackle, University of Utah
The Detroit Lions surprisingly passed on adding any interior defensive linemen to their roster until the last two rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft. The first tackle that Quinn drafted was John Penisini from Utah. Penisini is a big man who can line up all throughout the middle of the defensive line. While he is going to best serve the Lions as a run-stuffing interior defender, he can also provide the occasional pressure on pass-rushing downs.
He’s not going to wow anyone but he could turn into a very solid defender for a Lions team that is lacking those along the defensive line. For a sixth-round pick, Penisini could provide great value considering where he was selected.
Grade: B+
#235: Jashon Cornell, Defensive Lineman, Ohio State University
The Lions took a run-stuffing defensive lineman with their sixth-round pick and then added a versatile defensive lineman with pass-rushing upside with their final pick of the 2020 NFL Draft. Cornell won’t be the most exciting defensive lineman on the team but offers the kind of upside you stash on your practice squad for a season or two and hope to see work everything out.
dark. Next. Grading each first-round 2020 Draft pick
He can play on both the inside and outside of the defensive line and wins in a variety of ways. Cornell was a big-time recruit in high school and offers the athletic upside that most highly touted recruits have to offer. He could have a Kerry Hyder-like impact, in that he comes out of nowhere to provide the defense with impactful play. As seventh-round picks go, Cornell is one that offers modest upside and comes with low to no risk.