Mekhi Wingo, a rookie defensive lineman for the Detroit Lions, is prepared to quicken his learning curve as he adjusts to the NFL.
During rookie minicamp this past weekend, the rookie defensive lineman emphasized his determination not to let his draft position affect him negatively.
“Although I slipped a bit in the draft, I see it as falling into the perfect situation,” Wingo remarked. “I’m thrilled to be here, and I’ve always carried that chip on my shoulder. Standing at six feet as a defensive tackle, you’ve got to have that mentality, or it’s going to be tough out there. So, I’ll just keep doing what I do, giving my all and pushing myself.”
Regarding his approach to making an impact on the field, Wingo understands that refining aspects of his game is crucial.
“I need to capitalize on my quickness. Being undersized, everything I do has to be executed with precision. From my hand placement to my vision, I have to excel in every aspect. At the next level, I have to elevate my game in ways that a larger player might not need to, so that’s my focus — constant improvement every day.”
Mekhi Wingo ready to embrace leadership from Lions’ veterans
Even though veterans didn’t participate in rookie minicamp, Wingo is already anticipating the opportunity to collaborate with experienced players on the Lions’ defensive line. He’s had conversations with defensive tackle Alim McNeill, and he’s eager to learn from free agent acquisition DJ Reader.
“I’m someone who’s eager to absorb all the knowledge they have to offer,” Wingo expressed. “I’m not coming in thinking I have all the answers. Starting from the ground up, I’m open to any guidance they can provide, and I’ll integrate it into my game while adding my own touch to it.”
Driven by his draft position and a readiness to put in the work, Wingo appears determined to do whatever it takes to make an immediate impact as a sixth-round selection.