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Selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL draft, linebacker Kyle Van Noy is expected to start right away for the Detroit Lions.

(Justin Rogers | MLive.com)

The early expectation is second-round draft pick Kyle Van Noy will be an immediate starter for the Detroit Lions. The versatile linebacker, who showcased the necessary ability to drop into coverage and rush the passer at Brigham Young, should have a smooth transition to the professional level because of his outstanding instincts, according to ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay.

"That's probably the best part of his game," McShay said during a Monday conference call. "He diagnoses plays really quickly, plays with good discipline as a backside defender and he has strong instincts as a pass rusher, in coverage and when going after the football.

Van Noy was a big-time playmaker for Brigham Young, racking up 26 sacks, 11 forced fumbles and seven interceptions in his four years at the school.

"I try to focus on any chance I get," Van Noy said after being drafted by the Lions. "I've said it in times before, I feel like I'm an offensive player on defense."

While the addition was well received by Lions fans, McShay does note there are weaknesses in Van Noy's game, which could lead to some early struggles. The analyst believes it would be wise for the Lions to keep the 6-foot-3, 243-pound linebacker away from situations where he's asked to take on big blockers.

"You want to keep him protected," McShay said. "That's the big thing with him. He struggles when he's forced into a phone booth, when he's got to take on bigger blockers. It's just not his game."

McShay compared Van Noy to Tennessee Titans linebacker Akeem Ayers. A second-round selection in 2011, who drew interest from the Lions leading up to that draft.

Ayers has appeared in all 48 games since joining the Titans, starting 43. His best season came in 2012 when he racked up 102 tackles, six sacks, eight pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble.

McShay wrapped up his assessment of Van Noy saying he might not have the highest ceiling, but the floor is pretty high.

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