Nevin Lawson scouting report

To wrap up the 2014 NFL Draft, we are going to take an in-depth look at each Detroit Lions pick. Next up is Nevin Lawson.

CB Nevin Lawson (Utah State) - Round 4, Pick No. 133

The Lions kicked off the third day of the draft by addressing the cornerback position. Many people expected the Lions to take a cornerback as early as the first round, but they opted to wait until the 133rd overall pick, when they selected Utah State's Nevin Lawson.

Measurables

Height: 5-foot-9 | Weight: 190 pounds

Stats

2010: 12 tackles, 0.5 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PD
2011: 73 tackles, 1 INT, 11 PD, 1 FF
2012: 63 tackles, 4.0 TFL, 2.0 sacks, 10 PD
2013: 57 tackles, 5.0 TFL, 4 INT, 14 PD, 1 FF, 1 TD

Random fact

Lawson was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and he has a degree from Utah State in interdisciplinary studies (with an emphasis on health and wellness).

What the experts are saying

Mountain West Connection:

Lawson is very fast and athletic, and has the speed to keep up with receivers in the open field. He is very fluid, turns well, and is technically excellent as a tackler. His tenacity and aggressiveness are strengths that speak for themselves on the field. He has excellent field awareness in zone coverage, and closes quickly on the ball.

NFL.com:

Adequate-sized, talented, inconsistent cornerback with moldable tools and scheme versatility, though he requires polish and patience.

CBS Sports:

COMPARES TO: Christopher Owens, Miami Dolphins - Nicknamed "Peanut," Owens has quietly enjoyed a very solid NFL career since earning a third round selection by the Falcons in 2009. Like Owens, Lawson's coverage skills and willingness to mix it up in the running game could help him beat the odds.

ESPN:

Lawson impressed us with his balance, fluidity and quickness at the East-West Shrine Game. He played well enough there to get invited to the Senior Bowl, where he continued to perform well. He's undersized, so he's going to have a tough time matching up with bigger receivers on the outside, but he has the cover skills, instincts and toughness to develop into a good nickel corner.

Videos

More:

• Touchdown on interception vs. Boise State
• Interception vs. New Mexico State
• Interception in 2014 Senior Bowl
• 40-yard dash at Utah State pro day
• Interview at Utah State pro day
• Highlights from high school

Outlook for 2014

It's unlikely that Lawson will immediately contend for playing time at either of the outside cornerback spots, but he could challenge Bill Bentley for the Lions' nickelback role as a rookie. Beyond that, his best chance to contribute this year will likely be on special teams.

Previously: TE Eric Ebron, OLB Kyle Van Noy, C Travis Swanson