Name: C.J. Mosley
Position: Linebacker
College: Alabama
C.J. Mosley might possibly the safest pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. The Alabama product comes from a tried and tested college system with the tools and knowledge to fit right into the pro game. He has the size, speed and athleticism along with the smarts to start in week one before moulding his skills towards a Pro Bowl standard.
Due to his position, it is unlikely Mosley will go in the top-five picks, however, it would be a shock to see him slip through the Vikings, Bills, Lions and Titans from picks eight to 11.
How C.J. Mosley Fits Team Needs
Middle linebacker Stephen Tulloch and weak outside linebacker DeAndre Levy both had impressive 2013 seasons. Tulloch led the team with 135 tackles while Levy came in second with 119 as well as six interceptions. The strong side linebacker, Ashlee Palmer is the weak spot in this linebacker group. The 2009 undrafted free agent tallied just 33 tackles all season and would immediately drop to the bench upon Mosley’s arrival. With Tulloch 29 years old it would be assumed that within three years the Alabama native would be leading the defense.
The Lions have a number of needs which they could address within the first round such as cornerback (Justin Gilbert) and Wide Receiver (Mike Evans). But, if the right player for those positions is not available then taking a ten-year starter in Mosley would not be a bad plan B.
Impact As A Rookie
Mosley is a day one starter in the NFL. He has the versatility, IQ and tools to play on any defense and will be an instant upgrade to the Lions’ linebacker corps. While his natural position is inside linebacker, it is likely the Lions will want to keep Stephen Tulloch there and plug Mosley in on the outside where he would replace Ashlee Palmer.
What C.J. Mosley Does Well:
A pure tackler in every sense of the word, Mosley displays great form to make the most difficult tackles look easy with an adept skill at getting off his blocks and taking strong angles in pursuit. Mosley also displays tremendous athleticism and can hang with tight ends in coverage well enough to be on the field for every defensive snap. A true field general who has a tremendous presence on the field.
What C.J. Mosley Struggles With:
Pass rush. While he has a strong, thick build, Mosley did not get to the quarterback once in 2013 despite leading the Crimson Tide with eight pressures. He may have more success in the NFL with delayed blitzes and the presence of a Suh-Fairley combination ahead of him. Also, Mosley failed to record an interception in his senior year which appeared to stem from poor catching technique rather than being constantly in the wrong place.
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