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Why Detroit Lions believe Malcolm Rodriguez is ahead of some 3rd-year players

A couple weeks ago, Detroit Lions linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard had some pretty incredible praise for sixth-round rookie linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez.

“Malcolm Rodriguez is one of the smarter young players I’ve ever been around,” Sheppard told Detroit Lions beat reporter Tim Twentyman. “That kid, it’s because he’s a naturally smart player, but on top of that, it’s the work he puts in. This kid came in here in two days and he knew both (linebacker) spots.”

With the Lions’ offseason activities coming to a close now, Sheppard reflected on what Rodriguez has been able to accomplish due to his innate ability to understand the game on the level of an NFL veteran.