An area the roster the Lions have pretty much overlooked the past several seasons is the offensive line position. Sure Matt Millen took Gosder Cherilus with the 17th overall pick back in 2008 but at this point Cherilus lies more on the bust side of the draft spectrum.
Other than Cherilus though the Lions have been more prone to taking the skill position players, especially in the first round.
A big reason why the Lions have been so quiet to address the offensive line in recent years is the stability guys like Dominic Raiola and Jeff Backus have provided. Even though both of those guys are by no means the best players at their positions they’ve certainly done enough to provide good protection for Lions QBs over the years.
But there is a catch heading into the 2012 draft.
The catch is the uncertainty surrounding the health of Jeff Backus and the fact that he doesn’t have a contract heading into next season.
With that said, it’s very possible that the Lions will be more prone to investing a first round pick into offensive line help. Especially to aide in the protection of a blossoming Matthew Stafford and run blocking that has suffered.
During a conference call on Wednesday, NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock indicated that the Lions may use the No. 23 overall selection on an offensive tackle, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. There are even two players in particular that could help in that spot; Stanford’s Jonathan Martin and Ohio St.’s Mike Adams.
Of course the Lions could go in a completely different direction and address their needs on the defensive side of the ball which would also be very welcomed.
In his latest mock draft, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Lions to address their issues on defense rather than the offensive line…
“At one time, Jenkins was destined to be a top-10 pick, and his talent level hasn’t dipped. After exiting Florida, he spent a year at North Alabama, and is finally ready for the NFL. As a pure cover corner, in terms of pure instincts, ball skills and athleticism, you’re looking at a potential Pro Bowl player. Jenkins is already a major threat in the return game. He has a history, but get him in the right system, and you could have a star. We know Detroit needs help at corner, and Jenkins might be too much value to pass up here.”
Ref: ESPN, Detroit Free Press