The Detroit Lions went back to bolstering their defensive line depth by selecting Utah’s John Penisini in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
While he isn’t known for his pass rushing ability, he’s a stout run defender who will be in the fight for the backup nose tackle job. To stick around on the roster, he’ll have to prove he’s a better option than both John Atkins and Olive Sagapolu.
Penisini’s best chance to make the roster is by translating his college production as a run-stuffer to the NFL. If he can also learn some pass-rush skills during training camp, his roster spot will be a lock. One thing that might also help his case is his ability to make plays on special teams.
As for the rest of the depth chart, Danny Shelton will anchor the defensive line from the nose tackle position. On either side of him, expect to Da’Shawn Hand and Nick Williams in both the 3-technique and 5-technique roles.
Also in the hunt for backup roles are Kevin Strong and Frank Herron. These two spent some time on the active roster in 2019 and have an easy path to the active roster as Hand and Williams’ backups.
