The Lions decided they would be proactive instead of reactive with the offensive line Thursday night when they drafted offensive tackle Riley Reiff out of Iowa with the 23rd overall pick.
According to CBS Sports, Reiff was the 16th best overall prospect in the draft and the second best offensive tackle behind USC’s Matt Kalil who went to the Minnesota Vikings.
With the addition of Reiff the Lions address their issues with an aging offensive line. Reiff is an athletic and versatile lineman who can probably start competing for a starting job in training camp. Reiff was excellent at picking up the pass rush while in college and was able to escort edge rushers around the pocket. He is also an effective cut blocker despite his height.
In terms of run blocking, Reiff has good lateral movement to get his opponents out to the edge. He is also reportedly unbeatable when he gets position.
With the Lions going offensive line, you have to wonder what this means for them at defensive end? Is a long-term deal being worked out with Cliff Avril given the amount of defensive ends still available at 23? Or were the Lions just that infatuated with Reiff that they had to take him?
Ref: CBS Sports, Detroit News, Twitter
