Last article, I highlighted some players with severe medical concerns entering the draft. Today, I'll review players with a moderate level of concern who might interest the Lions.

Going back to last draft, the Lions selected Ennis Rakestraw in the 2nd round who I rated as a moderate medical concern due to a recent core muscle surgery and an ACL history. In the 1st round, the Lions had selected the medically-clean Terrion Arnold. The 2nd round might be the range where potential reward starts to outweigh risk for many teams.

The following players are projected in the mid-late 1st round range, but the concerns could drop them well into the 2nd.

MODERATE CONCERN

Maxwell Hairston CB, Kentucky - age 22

Latest DraftWire projection: #29

This West Bloomfield, MI native had a 2024 shoulder injury that caused him to miss five games. When he returned, reports suggest he had trouble with missed tackles. The shoulder issue coupled with his slight build (183lb) could affect his aggressiveness going forward.

While his combine 40 time was a scorching 4.28, the Lions typically like their CB's to not just be fast but physical, so Hairston may not be an ideal fit. The Lions are definitely intrigued though as they had a Top-30 visit with him on April 8 which surely included a comprehensive shoulder evaluation.

Mykel Williams EDGE, Georgia - age 21

Latest DraftWire projection: #23

The concern is a moderate (grade 2) ankle injury suffered in game one last season that he stated affected his performance all year. While he only missed two games for the ankle, a multi-month lingering injury warrants investigation by Lions medical. He has otherwise been reliable playing in 12, 13, and 15 games the past three seasons.

Like many top prospects, Williams did not work out at the combine but did work out later at his pro day which is somewhat reassuring. His 40 time there of 4.75 was underwhelming though, especially if you add a 0.05-0.10 pro day penalty vs the combine.

Williams has not had a Top-30 visit with the Lions yet, but don't be surprised if they bring him in to have his ankle checked out.

Jihaad Campbell LB/EDGE, Alabama - age 21

Latest DraftWire projection: #33

Campbell was reliable during his college career playing 13 games each of the past two seasons. However, he had surgery for a torn shoulder labrum after the combine. It's uncertain when and how the injury happened.

Drafting a player without any game action since a surgery always carries risk. Even if surgery is ...