Lions have a hidden rookie gem that could have a solid future in Detroit if he lands on the practice squad

Three preseason games are in the books for the Detroit Lions there were a lot of standouts and some disappointments. One particular standout didn't really standout all that much. It's kind of hard to when you're an interior offensive lineman in the preseason. Everyone is watching the skill guys. Offensive linemen are so ignored that the above picture is the only one we could find with this guy in it.

Believe it or not, of all the offensive players that played all three preseason games for the Lions, it was undrafted rookie Duke Clemens that was Pro Football Focus' highest graded guy in Detroit this preseason. Clemens played 144 snaps at left guard and walked out with a 77.3 cumulative grade. Pretty good.

Now, there's no way that he's going to make the Lions' 53-man roster. He will get cut on or before August 27th. But the Lions should be looking to bring him right back because there's something there with him if he gets more tutelage.

The former UCLA starter was in the running for the Rimington trophy last year for being one of the best centers in the country. He ultimately didn't win it, but he did enough to get looks in the NFL draft. The Lions signed him and he's been playing mostly guard since he got here, but we know he can also play center too. There's some versatility there that's worth getting an extended look at.

Where he shines is in the run blocking department. Clemens can moves some bodies out there and open up holes. Where he needs work is in the pass blocking department. Clemens allowed six pressures a sack in the preseason and it was his 54.4 pass blocking grade that brought his cumulative grade down to the 70's.

This is what the practice squad is all about. Giving young players time to work out some of their issues. If Clemens can spend a year working with Lions offensive line coach Hank Fraley and veterans Graham Glasgow and Kevin Zietler, you never know what you could have there.

Definitely keep an eye on Clemens when the team starts putting together their practice squad this week.

Related: Final Detroit Lions 16-man practice squad prediction: Lions keep multiple guys that could see regular season play in 2024