2011 NFL Mock Draft Has Experts Focusing On Offensive Line For Detroit Lions
When looking at the Detroit Lions the first thing that stands out is the their secondary.
In a perfect world they would get a shot at Prince Amukamara here but that is not the case in this scenario.
The Lions seem to be getting better (if Matt Stafford can stay healthy) and this has to be a year that make some more improvements.
The defensive line could benefit from another player, as could outside linebacker, but the one position other than cornerback that stands out is offensive tackle.
Rang: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
"The Lions would be fortunate to see Amukamara, a legitimate top 10 prospect, still on the board at this point. Having hit the lottery with a Cornhusker last year in All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, Detroit wouldn't waste any time turning in their card and erasing their need for an infusion of size, speed and physicality at cornerback."
Reuter: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
"Whether the Lions stay at this pick or move down to gain extra selections later in the draft, their decision may come down to whether they select the tackle with more "upside" in Colorado's Nate Solder or take the tough, smart, and more versatile Castonzo."
Davis: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
"Lions have a RT in Gosder Cherilus, so the projection would be for Smith to move to left tackle in the NFL. If Lions aren't convinced, Anthony Costanzo could be the pick to replace longtime LT Jeff Backus."
Kirwan: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
"In my last mock, it was OT Nate Solder in this spot. However, it was Castonzo who drew the praise from two offensive line coaches I've spoken with recently. His versatility makes him a solid fit for Detroit, especially after Jeff Backus played well last year."
Wright: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
"Since the end of the season USC?s Tyron Smith has emerged as the premier offensive tackle prospect in this class. An impressive physical specimen and terrific all-around blocker who excels in pass protection as well as the run game, Smith actually played on the right side with the Trojans but clearly possesses a left tackle skill-set."
Me: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
With no other tackles off the board, the Lions get their choice of who they want here.
Anthony Castonzo might provide the safest pick, but Tyron Smith has the most upside of any tackle in the class.
He's got great athleticism for his size, added bulk and strength since season's end and at the very least could be a very good right tackle.
However, he projects as possibly the only franchise left tackle in this draft and the Lions would love to have him covering Matt Stafford's blindside.
If Smith and Amukamara are both off the board I would expect to see Castonzo selected here instead.
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