Da’Shawn Hand, Defensive End

The fourth-round selection in the 2017 NFL draft has been a consistent contributor throughout training camp. As a rookie, he has been doing all the right things including soaking up as much knowledge as possible from the likes of veteran defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois.

At 6-foot-3, 297 pounds Hand has the size to play in a variety of positions along the defensive line. In a standard 4-3 look he has the size and strength to kick inside and handle the three-technique or because of his athleticism, he can handle the five-technique as well.

In his first action as a Lion against the Raiders, Da’Shawn Hand did most of the damage from the five-technique position. During his debut Hand played a total of 29 snaps while registering three total tackles and one quarterback hurry. His play was one of the lone bright spots along the Detroit defensive line and as such he earned himself a minor promotion in practice by getting in a few reps with the first-team defense.

The Detroit Lions couldn’t have asked for a better debut from the rookie defensive lineman. As they progress throughout the rest of the preseason Detroit will continue to look for steady improvement from Hand and they will get another opportunity at home against the Giants on Friday.

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