Tim Twentyman
The Detroit Lions opened Day 3 of the NFL Draft by selecting their second straight Michigan Wolverine.
After selecting edge rusher Derrick Moore in the second round on Friday, Detroit came right back and added Michigan linebacker Jimmy Rolder in Saturday's fourth round with the No. 118 overall pick.
Rolder (6-2, 238) earned a starting role as a WILL linebacker in Wink Martindale's scheme this past fall and led the Wolverines in tackles (73). He also chipped in seven tackles for loss and a couple sacks.
Rolder has good range and shows an ability to get off blocks, find the football and finish in the run game. He may have only one year of starting experience, but the traits show a player who can earn an early role on special teams and push for an inside linebacker role on defense.
The Lions have an opening at WILL linebacker in Kelvin Sheppard's defense after veteran Alex Anzalone signed with Tampa Bay in free agency this offseason. Veterans Malcolm Rodriguez and Damone Clark will be competing for the role, but Rolder's selection gives the Lions another player to evaluate.
