Their first-round pick has played every snap at left tackle. Their second-rounder has been a key backup on the defensive line. Their third-rounder is ready for an expanded role at left guard. And their seventh-rounder could make his first career start this week.
The Detroit Lions have won two straight games after a dismal start, and as they try to get back above .500 this Sunday against Washington, they'll be doing so with more help than anyone predicted from their rookie class.
"It’s one of those years where some of it (is) due to an injury, some of it (is) due to the fact that they’re just obviously fine players that are still developing, but I think it bodes well for those guys," Lions coach Jim Caldwell said.