Dan Skipper is officially hanging up his cleats-but he’s not stepping away from the game. The longtime Detroit Lions offensive lineman is transitioning straight into coaching, starting with a high-profile opportunity: he’ll be working with the East team’s offensive line at this year’s East-West Shrine Bowl. It’s a fitting next chapter for a player who’s always brought grit and intelligence to the trenches.
But while Skipper’s coaching debut is worth noting, Lions fans might want to keep their eyes on another all-star showcase this week: the Senior Bowl. That’s where Detroit’s scouting department-and fans hoping to see the next big defensive playmaker-should be paying close attention.
The name to know? David Bailey, EDGE out of Texas Tech.
Bailey’s journey to this point is already impressive. He spent three seasons at Stanford, where he flashed potential with 14.5 career sacks.
But it was his senior season, after transferring to Texas Tech, that really turned heads. Bailey exploded for another 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss, leading the Big 12 in both categories.
That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed, and it’s why he’s quickly climbing draft boards.
For Detroit, Bailey makes a lot of sense. He’s a natural fit opposite Aidan Hutchinson-bringing speed, bend, and relentless motor off the edge.
While he’s a bit lighter than some traditional NFL edge rushers and still developing as a run defender, his upside as a pass rusher is hard to ignore. If the Lions are looking defense at pick No. 17, and Bailey is still on the board, he could be a strong candidate to fill that role.
Of course, Detroit won’t be the only team watching Bailey closely. The Bengals and Chiefs both pick ahead of the Lions and could be in the market for an edge rusher, especially if top prospects like Reuben Bain are already off the board. That’s the kind of draft-day domino that could impact Detroit’s options.
This brings us to the broader draft strategy for the Lions. They’re in a solid position but have a few key needs to address.
If Bailey or another top pass rusher isn’t available, Detroit could pivot to the offensive line. Guard might not be the most pressing need on paper, but there’s real value at that position in this year’s class.
Add in the fact that the Lions could also use help at swing tackle and center, and the O-line becomes a very real possibility in the first round.
Still, if you’re a Lions fan hoping to see the team add another quarterback hunter to the mix, the Senior Bowl is must-watch TV. Bailey has a chance to boost his stock even further with a strong showing in Mobile. And if he does, he might not even make it to pick 17-putting Detroit’s front office in a tough, but exciting, position.
Bottom line: Bailey is a name to circle, underline, and highlight heading into the draft. His Senior Bowl performance could shape not just his own future, but Detroit’s as well.