The Lions have been evaluating tight end prospects at the NFL Combine, and one particular quote sounds like something Dan Campbell would love.

With Sam LaPorta as the starter and last year’s investment to retain Brock Wright after matching his 49ers offer sheet, tight end is not a major need for Detroit. Still, depth is always valuable, and Wright could lose TE2 snaps. Both LaPorta and Wright have struggled as run blockers recently.

That’s why the Lions have been meeting with tight end prospects in Indianapolis. Per John Maakaron of SI.com, they have scheduled formal combine meetings with Thomas Fidone (Nebraska), Jackson Hawes (Georgia Tech), CJ Dippre (Alabama), and Robbie Ouzts (Alabama).

As Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports noted, all four mentioned physicality and violence during their Thursday podium interviews. Campbell, a former grinder at tight end himself, would undoubtedly perk up hearing that. It’s also likely each player shared similar sentiments in their Lions meetings.

Tight end prospect drops a quote that could vault him to the top of Dan Campbell’s list

Hawes highlighted his blocking mindset at the podium, which is widely considered his top skill and key to getting drafted.

“I’m looking to punish people… I’m looking to put my facemask under someone’s chin,” Hawes said.

That quote screams “Dan Campbell guy.”

Hawes (6-foot-4, 252 pounds) played at Yale from 2019-2023 (skipping the COVID year) before transferring to Georgia Tech, where he posted 16 catches for 195 yards in 2023’s low-volume passing game. His 16.3 yards per catch stands out.

Payton reported Hawes would meet with the Lions Thursday night. Now, with his facemask quote circulating, he might want to bring a new line for Campbell — or just stick with what works.