Detroit Lions full 2021 NFL mock draft
Texas. Joseph Ossai. player. Scouting Report. Edge. 72. 50. Pick Analysis
Ossai was generating Round 1 buzz earlier in the pre-draft process, but questions about his ability to hold up against the run have caused his stock to plummet in recent weeks. The Lions could benefit from that overreaction by nabbing the speedy edge rusher early in Round 3.
He may never grow into a quality run defender on the perimeter, but it’s easy to envision a scenario where Ossai turns into a double-digit sack artist. He’s got the type of speed and bend pro scouts love to see from edge rushers on film. Ossai’s penchant to cause turnovers at Texas only adds to his intrigue as a prospect.
Ossai might only be ready to contribute as a situational pass-rusher right away, but that specialty skill is plenty valuable enough to justify a pick in the 70s. The only question with his fit in Detriot is whether or not Campbell and his coaching staff are willing to shift their defensive personnel packages around to fit Ossai’s skill set.
If they are, selecting him at No. 72 could turn into a steal. Ossai isn’t every team’s cup of tea, but his ability to blow past opposing tackles with pure speed gives him a great skill to build around. Some patient NFL coaching could turn him into a star.