NFL Analyst Makes Bold Claim Over Lions' 5th Round Pick
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 26: Arizona State defensive back Keith Abney II answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 26, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 26 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602261768
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 26: Arizona State defensive back Keith Abney II answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 26, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 26 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602261768
The Detroit Lions brought in several new players through the draft, but one late-round pick is already starting to get attention. He might even have a chance to compete for a role earlier than most expected.
According to NFL.com's analyst Gennaro Filice, Keith Abney II is a sleeper for the Detroit Lions. They selected the Arizona State cornerback in the fifth round with the 157th overall pick.
“Abney doesn’t blow you away with speed or size,” Filice wrote. “But the 5-10, 187-pounder plays with an endearing chip on his shoulder, providing physicality and premium ball production.”
January 1, 2025: Keith Abney II 1 of Arizona State on defense during the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl - a CFP Quarterfinal - featuring the 5 seed Texas Longhorns vs 4 seed Arizona State Sun Devils, played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Texas survives double-OT with a 39-31 win over Arizona State. /CSM Atlanta United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20250101_faf_c04_136 Copyright: xCecilxCopelandx
January 1, 2025: Keith Abney II 1 of Arizona State on defense during the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl - a CFP Quarterfinal - featuring the 5 seed Texas Longhorns vs 4 seed Arizona State Sun Devils, played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Texas survives double-OT with a 39-31 win over Arizona State. /CSM Atlanta United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20250101_faf_c04_136 Copyright: xCecilxCopelandx
In three college seasons, he played in 34 games, recording 98 total tackles (71 solo), six interceptions, and 21 passes defended.
“His best NFL role could come in the nickel,” Filice added.
Filice has also mentioned that he plays very physically in coverage. He stays close to receivers and fights at the line of scrimmage. At times, that aggressiveness has cost him penalties, something he has been trying to clean up.
The 21-year-old is also praised for being a tackler and usually finishes his plays. Scouts and analysts now compare Abney to established Lions defenders.
Early Comparison Links Keith Abney II To Key Lions Defender
ESPN analyst Matt Miller shared an interesting take on Abney before the draft. “Arizona State defensive backs coach Bryan Carrington texted me his comparison for Abney in the weeks before the draft - D.J. Reed,” Miller wrote.
Abney now joins a room that includes D.J. Reed, who signed a $48 million deal last year. Reed played 11 games last season due to injury but still recorded 46 total tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass deflections.
“A slot cornerback with 4.45 speed, Abney is a menace at the line of scrimmage and a playmaker when the ball is in flight,” Miller added. “His tape screams starter.”
In his final college season, Abney put up 44 total tackles, one sack, two interceptions, 12 pass deflections, and two forced fumbles, proving his versatility on defense.
While it is still early, the signs around Abney are positive. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Anjali Thakur
Edited by
Rudra Dubey