NFL Draft: Lions Set to Target Deep Interior Offensive Line Class
This year’s NFL Draft boasts a particularly strong pool of interior offensive linemen, leaving teams in need of reinforcements with promising options well into Day 2. Several prospects showcase versatility,listed as tackles but capable of transitioning to guard at the professional level.
The Detroit Lions find themselves in a prime position at No. 28 overall. Their draft selection lands them within striking distance of some of the top interior offensive line talent,as those players typically begin to come off the board later in the first round.
“That’s the engine for us,” Lions general manager Brad Holmes said of the offensive line following the 2022 season. “And so, I don’t care how good we ever get on the offensive line, that one right there is too important for not only our team, our quarterback, everything, it’s our identity, man.So,I think just that alone is just – it’s always going to be at the forefront.”
Here are five interior offensive linemen to watch closely as the NFL Combine approaches:
Tyler Booker, Alabama
Standing at 6-5 and weighing 325 pounds, Booker possesses the size and strength necessary to make an immediate impact. He served as a two-year starter and team captain for the Crimson Tide, showcasing excellent technique in pass protection and dominating run blocking with his power. Booker consistently moved some of the bigger nose tackles in college football with ease.
Given the versatility of some prospects listed as tackles but capable of playing guard, will the Lions prioritize a specific position (tackle or guard) when evaluating interior offensive linemen in the draft?
NFL Draft: lions Set to Target Deep Interior Offensive Line Class
This year’s NFL Draft boasts a particularly strong pool of interior offensive linemen, leaving teams in need of reinforcements with promising options well into Day 2. Several prospects showcase versatility,listed as tackles but capable of transitioning to guard at the professional level.
The Detroit Lions find themselves in a prime position at No. 28 overall. Their draft selection lands them within striking distance of some of the top interior offensive line talent,as those players typically begin to come off the board later in the first round.
“That’s the engine for us,” Lions general manager Brad Holmes said of the offensive line following the 2022 season. “and so, I don’t care how good we ever get on the offensive line, that one right there is too important for not only our team, our quarterback, everything, it’s our identity, man.So,I think just that alone is just – it’s always going to be at the forefront.”
Here are five interior offensive linemen to watch closely as the NFL Combine approaches:
tyler Booker, Alabama
standing at 6-5 and weighing 325 pounds, Booker possesses the size and strength necessary to make an immediate impact. He served as a two-year starter and team captain for the crimson Tide, showcasing excellent technique in pass protection and dominating run blocking with his power. Booker consistently moved some of the bigger nose tackles in college football with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is offensive line play so crucial for the Detroit Lions?
A: According to Lions GM Brad Holmes, the offensive line is the “engine” of their team.A strong offensive line protects the quarterback, opens up running lanes, and sets the tone for the entire offense.
Q: Where are the Lions picking in the 2023 NFL Draft?
A: The Detroit lions are selecting 28th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Stay tuned to see which interior offensive linemen the Lions select in the upcoming draft. Their choices could shape the future success of the franchise.
