Detroit Lions supposedly dig Michigan football star Josaiah Stewart; here’s why they should
The Detroit Lions have long been a team in search of an identity. While they have had various ups and downs over the years, their dedication to building a competitive team with an eye toward the future is evident. One of the key elements in shaping the franchise’s success moving forward is not just drafting players who can contribute immediately, but also finding talent that can potentially carry the team in the years to come.
As the Lions continue to refine their roster and look for the next stars to lead the charge, one name that has surfaced as a potential target in the draft is Josaiah Stewart, a star player from the University of Michigan. The Lions have supposedly shown interest in Stewart, a versatile and dynamic defensive player. Here’s a deep dive into why the Detroit Lions should not only be interested in Stewart but why he could be the perfect addition to their roster.
A Glimpse into Josaiah Stewart’s Career at Michigan
Before discussing why the Detroit Lions should target Stewart, it’s important to first understand who he is as a player. Josaiah Stewart played his college football at the University of Michigan, where he quickly made a name for himself. Stewart has a blend of size, athleticism, and football IQ that made him stand out as a premier defensive talent.
During his time at Michigan, Stewart played on the defensive line and linebacker, showcasing his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Whether it was applying pressure to the quarterback, making crucial tackles, or reading plays with a keen sense of awareness, Stewart proved he had the skills to succeed at the next level.
While at Michigan, Stewart consistently improved with each season, working hard to enhance his pass-rushing skills and his ability to stop the run. His leadership on and off the field also became a major asset for the Wolverines, something that would serve him well as a professional athlete.
Stewart’s rise to prominence is not just about his stats, although they are certainly impressive. His work ethic and mentality set him apart from others in his class. His commitment to becoming the best version of himself made him a perfect fit for a Michigan defense that prides itself on toughness and discipline.
What the Detroit Lions Need: A Dynamic Defensive Player
The Detroit Lions are in a phase of rebuilding, but they are certainly not starting from scratch. Under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell, the team has made strides toward becoming more competitive. One of the major improvements has been their defense, but there’s still a long way to go before they’re truly a dominant force.
The Lions need a player who can contribute right away, but also someone who has the potential to be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. Stewart fits that bill perfectly. At this stage in the Lions’ rebuild, the defense needs players who can step up and impact the game in a variety of ways.
Stewart has the versatility to play across multiple positions in the front seven, including both defensive end and linebacker. This ability to wear multiple hats makes him an ideal candidate for a team that is still working to solidify its defensive identity. The Lions need a player who can contribute immediately but also has the long-term potential to develop into a star. Stewart is precisely that type of player.
Why Josaiah Stewart Is a Perfect Fit for the Lions
1. Versatility
Josaiah Stewart’s versatility is perhaps his most valuable trait. In today’s NFL, the ability to play multiple positions is a necessity, particularly for defenders. Stewart has shown that he is comfortable playing on the edge of the defensive line as a pass rusher, but also capable of dropping back into coverage or playing off the ball as a linebacker. His ability to do both is a major asset for any team looking to maximize their defensive scheme.
The Lions need this kind of flexibility. Their defense is still evolving, and having players who can contribute in various ways is crucial. Stewart’s skill set would allow the Lions to utilize him in a variety of positions, keeping offensive coordinators on their toes. Whether it’s rushing the passer on third downs or covering tight ends and running backs in the passing game, Stewart could do it all. This is the kind of player the Lions need to strengthen their front seven.
2. Pass-Rushing Ability
The Lions have been making strides on defense, but one area where they still need improvement is in generating consistent pressure on the quarterback. Last season, they showed flashes of potential in this regard, but they didn’t have a consistent presence to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
This is where Stewart comes in. He has the pass-rushing skills to be an immediate contributor in the NFL. At Michigan, he showcased a variety of moves, including speed, power, and finesse, to beat offensive linemen and get to the quarterback. His ability to make an impact on passing downs would give the Lions much-needed help in an area that has been a weakness for them.
Stewart’s pass-rush ability also makes him an ideal fit in a modern NFL defense, where offenses are quick to spread the ball and try to neutralize traditional pass rushers. His agility and quickness off the edge would make him an effective weapon on third downs, a crucial situation for any defense.
3. Run-Stopping Ability
While pass rushing often grabs the headlines, being able to stop the run is just as important for a successful defense. Fortunately, Stewart is no slouch when it comes to stopping the run. He has a great sense of timing and an understanding of angles, allowing him to shed blockers and get to ball carriers quickly. His strength and ability to disengage from offensive linemen make him a valuable asset in defending against the run.
For the Detroit Lions, having a player like Stewart would help solidify their run defense, which has been inconsistent at times. With Stewart, the Lions would not only have a versatile rusher, but also someone who can play sound football in the trenches and help shut down the opposition’s ground game.
4. Leadership and Football IQ
One of the most overlooked qualities of a player is their leadership and football IQ. Stewart possesses both in abundance. Throughout his time at Michigan, he was not just a standout player, but a leader on the field. He has the ability to read plays before they happen, making adjustments on the fly to give his team the best chance to succeed.
For a young Detroit defense still working to develop its identity, having a leader like Stewart could make a big difference. His ability to communicate with teammates and make quick decisions under pressure would elevate the entire defensive unit. Additionally, his dedication to preparation and study could serve as an example for the rest of the team.
5. Fit in the Dan Campbell Culture
Dan Campbell, the head coach of the Detroit Lions, has instilled a culture of toughness, grit, and resilience in the team. Stewart embodies these qualities and fits perfectly into the culture that Campbell has cultivated. He plays with a high motor and a relentless attitude, two traits that are highly valued in the Lions’ locker room. His work ethic and commitment to improving would make him a great fit for a team that prides itself on being physical and playing with an edge.
The Detroit Lions Should Draft Josaiah Stewart
Josaiah Stewart is the kind of player who could help define the future of the Detroit Lions’ defense. His combination of versatility, pass-rush ability, run-stopping prowess, leadership, and football IQ makes him a perfect fit for a team that is working to build a championship-caliber defense.
The Lions have a chance to draft a player who could be a foundational piece for their defense. Stewart’s upside is undeniable, and his potential to contribute immediately while growing into a future star should make him an attractive option for the Lions. With his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, Josaiah Stewart could be exactly what the Detroit Lions need to take their defense to the next level and continue their path toward becoming a competitive force in the NFL.