Key Takeaways:
– The Detroit Lions may slot in undrafted former Ohio State linebacker, Steele Chambers, to fill the spot left by Anthony Pittman’s departure.
– Veteran Detroit linebacker coach, Kelvin Sheppard, shared insights on the importance of undrafted rookies to the NFL.
– Analysts highlight Chambers’ athleticism and play personality as his strong suits despite needing to hone specific skills.
Ohio State’s Undrafted Star Steele Chambers Gets A Look-In
Following leading linebacker Anthony Pittman’s exit in free agency, the Detroit Lions football team is reportedly eyeing undrafted rookie Steele Chambers as a potential replacement. According to Colton Pouncy of The Athletic, Chambers, whose transition from running back to linebacker has made him a promising talent at the position, may get a shot at the Lions’ final roster.
Evaluating Rookie Steele Chambers
Pouncy noted, “Chambers is an intriguing fit thanks to his athleticism, but his tape shows a prospect who’s still developing at the position.” While acknowledging that Chambers needs to work on shedding blockers faster, Pouncy also observed that the rookie has a good foundation to build upon.
Chambers exhibited a strong performance in his five-year tenure with Ohio State. Among his notable achievements was leading the team with 83 tackles in 2023, playing in 13 games, and earning honorable mention All-Big Ten Conference honors.
Another observer, Dane Brugler from The Athletic, believes that despite needing improvements, Chambers “has the talent to compete for a rotational linebacker and special teams role” with the Lions.
Chambers’ Prospects and Potential
Brugler elaborated, “Chambers made noticeable improvements with his reads and tackling consistency since moving over from offense. However, his take-on technique leaves him stuck on blocks, especially when he loses his run fits.” Brugler stressed Chambers’ need to develop his understanding of blocking schemes and cover responsibilities, but spotlighted the rookie’s athletic range and play personality as “solid foundational traits for the next level.”
The Pittman Void
Anthony Pittman, while having a light role on defense with the Lions, had played a significant part in the team’s special teams, appearing in 80% of Detroit’s special teams snaps in 2023. The gap left by Pittman’s departure needs filling, and the Lions seem set on Chambers as a strong contender.
Coaching Insights from Kelvin Sheppard
Chambers could receive valuable guidance from inside the Lions’ locker room itself. Detroit’s linebacker coach, Kelvin Sheppard, shared his insight on rookies’ value in the NFL. In a conversation with reporter Tim Twentyman on “Twentyman in the Huddle”, Sheppard emphasized that the draft position does not matter once players compete for a roster spot.
Sheppard explained, “I wish I could have known this mentally—it truly doesn’t matter where you get drafted. It’s all about what you do after you get drafted.” He also highlighted that a majority of the NFL rosters are made up of undrafted rookies, many of whom have long-lasting careers.
Analysts and fans alike are watching closely to see if the Detroit Lions will indeed onboard Steele Chambers to replace Anthony Pittman. The journey of this undrafted rookie offers exciting prospects, providing a testament to the unpredictable yet exciting nature of the NFL.