Jon Dove of MockingTheDraft.com (via CBSsports.com):

A small school player that will need to adjust to tougher competition. He is a project player. Grade: C-

WalterFootball.com:

A developmental tackle. Jeff Backus is entering his contract year, so the Lions will finally be forced to find a new left tackle next year. (Pick Grade: B)

ESPN.com:

He is an undersized OT who needs to add bulk to his frame and has raw tools. He is clearly a developmental project at this point.

Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly:

Culbreath had mid-round physical traits and could prove to be a solid value pick if the Lions can find a way to keep his assignments simple. However, it remains a big “if”.

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The 2011 NFL draft has come to its conclusion and the Lions have put together an interesting group.

The early picks are guys that should have an immediate impact and will have roles that require little transition from the college game to the NFL, an important note considering the uncertainty surrounding the labor situation.

The Lions finished off their draft by adding two players that are considered developmental guys with high upsides.

Here is your 2011 Detroit Lions Draft Class:

Round 1: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

Round 2: Titus Young, WR, Boise State

Round 2: Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois

Round 5: Doug Hogue, OLB, Syracuse

Round 7: Johnny Culbreath, OT, South Carolina State

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Who: Johnny Culbreath
What: Offensive Tackle
Where: South Carolina State
When: Round 7, Pick 6 (209 overall)
Why: Anyone that read a few mock drafts knows that the Lions were strong candidates to add an offensive tackle in this draft. Nick Fairley proved to be the better value in the first round but they finally pulled the trigger in the seventh round. Assuming Gosder Cherilus will return healthy, the Lions are a couple years from having a tremendous need at tackle but this pick is a solid chance to be proactive rather than reactive.

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