ORT Gosder Cherilus is slated to start from Day One, and his skills as a run blocker should fit in well with what the Lions hope to achieve in a more balanced attack. He was out of place as a senior on the left side, which might have hurt his stock some. OLB Jordon Dizon is a tough, instinctive tackler who isn’t afraid to mix it up despite his lack of size (5-11 7⁄8, 229 pounds), and the Lions will try him inside to start, although GM Matt Millen said he has the ability to play all three LB spots. The team found its runner in Round Three, landing Central Florida’s Kevin Smith. A major workhorse for George O’Leary’s offense, Smith likely will battle with Tatum Bell for first-team carries. However, he lacks run strength and burst and could struggle to become a bellcow in the pros. DT Andre Fluellen is a good fit in Rod Marinelli’s slanting defense. Fluellen opened some eyes at the Senior Bowl, showing an ability to get into the backfield that he didn’t always display in college. He should compete in a rotation up front if he can stay healthy. OLB Cliff Avril is most natural at strong-side linebacker and could contend for a starting job. WR-RB Kenneth Moore is a versatile receiver who can line up in multiple spots and has similar skills to Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald. FB Jerome Felton might have trouble unseating Jon Bradley but could help as a pass catcher. DT Landon Cohen will have to show he can play inside at 274 pounds. Army’s Caleb Campbell, the star of Day Two of the draft, could switch to “Sam” linebacker or stay at safety, and he’ll play on special teams if he makes the club.
