Sixth-round pick Ahmed Hassanein isn’t just showing up for reps—he’s showing up with a plan. The rookie edge rusher out of Boise State is quickly gaining attention inside the Lions’ building, not just for his raw athletic ability, but for how seriously he’s attacking the mental side of the game.
While many young players try to simply learn their role, Hassanein is going deeper. He’s studying the entire defense—every stunt, every coverage adjustment, every assignment for the D-line and linebackers. That mindset is helping him fast-track his development and climb the depth chart in Detroit.
“Coach Kacy [Rodgers] is incredible at explaining the whole defense,” Hassanein said. “It’s not just about chasing the ball anymore. When I understand what the other D-end and the D-tackle are doing, it all comes together. It’s unlocking stuff I never even knew.”
The lightbulb moment came during OTAs when he realized how certain coverages actually help funnel quarterbacks toward his side. He’s started logging every mistake he makes and correcting them with film work and on-field reps. That attention to detail is shrinking the gap between learning and executing.
And it matters—big time.
The Lions’ defensive scheme under Kelvin Sheppard isn’t static. They rotate from four-man fronts to five-man “Bear” looks constantly. That means a guy like Hassanein, who knows more than just his edge responsibilities, can earn early playing time—especially with veterans like Marcus Davenport managing reps and others still recovering.
From late-night whiteboard sessions to extra power training in the weight room, Hassanein is making sure he’s ready when it counts. The joint practices with Miami and Houston this summer will be the next big test. If he continues on this track, Detroit might have found another hidden gem in the later rounds.
He’s not just chasing quarterbacks—he’s chasing greatness.
Lions Rookie Ahmed Hassanein Is Turning Heads by Studying the Whole Playbook—Not Just His Position
