Josh Paschal will be 'great fit' for Detroit Lions

Josh Paschal was a three-time captain at Kentucky, and that was a big talking point during NFL Draft weekend. The intangibles are off the chart for the All-SEC performer, but versatility might be the most attractive trait for the EDGE player at the next level.

Paschal believes that his ability to be scheme-versatile and play multiple positions will make him a great fit playing at Ford Field in the NFC North.

“Versatility is one of the biggest keys of my game,” Paschal said after the draft. “I move all across the front. I’m not sure right now what Coach [Todd] Wash and Coach [Aaron] Glenn would have me playing, but whatever it is I’m going to give it my all. And I’m very versatile so whatever it is I’ll be able to pick it up.”

Under Glenn, who is entering his second season as the defensive coordinator, the Lions are a hybrid 3-4 base defense that likes to show a lot of fronts and give offenses multiple looks. Paschal fits into this as a textbook 3-4 defensive end that can play with power to fit the run game, but also has some deceptive explosiveness to contribute to the pass rush. The versatility will be a key to Paschal’s success in Detroit.

It’s clear that the front office and coaching staff sees a player that can help the rebuilding franchise immediately.

“He’s just a versatile player,” said general manager Brad Holmes. “I think he can play all up and down our defensive front. He’s been a highly effective interior rusher, but he can also set edges and play the run as well. He’s got extremely elite, elite character and intangibles. Some of the best that I’ve experienced in and I’ve researched on.”

It’s clear that Paschal checks a ton of boxes for Detroit. The Kentucky product is heading to a franchise that will put him in a position to succeed despited doubling down on with Aidan Hutchinson in the draft. Detroit is making the defensive front a priority and is committed to winning games in the trenches. That philosophy seems to be leading to great chemistry between the player and organization to begin Paschal’s pro career.

“I had my formal interview at the combine with them,” Josh Paschal said. “So I met Dan Campbell, Coach Wash, Coach Glenn. I met them all there. We hit it off, we watched some film, just talked about ball and life. Instantly I knew it would be a great fit.”

Expect Paschal to be a contributor in Detroit as a rookie.