Rapid Reactions to the Detroit Lions’ Selection of Riley Reiff
By Zac Snyder
Here is a sampling of the early reactions to the Lions’ selection of Riley Reiff:
"The Detroit Lions sat at 23 and watched as the second best offensive linemen in this class fell in their laps. Riley Reiff is a really good offensive linemen prospect, a top 10 player on Sayre’s big board. Reiff has the agility to play LT, but can also play RT or guard. The Lions really needed to add offensive line talent and they did so with this pick.Really nice pick for the Lions. I don’t think they could have asked the board to fall much better for them.Draft Grade: A"
"Reiff is a former tight end recruit out of high school who has made the move to offensive tackle and possesses the athleticism needed to win in both the run and pass game. He’s got natural range off the edge and can slide laterally, but needs to mature as a power player. Nevertheless, he’s a “plus” run blocker who understands angles and should be able to play either inside or out at the next level.NFL Ceiling: Above-average NFL left tackleNFL Floor: Solid NFL right tackle or guard"
"This is a good pick. They need help on the offensive line, and he can immediately come in and protect the franchise, Matthew Stafford. He should probably start on the right side first, but he can transition later to the left side."
"The Lions acquired much needed OL help by selecting Iowa OT Riley Reiff with the 23rd overall pick in the draft. The 6-6, 313 pound Reiff has proven himself in both run-blocking and pass-protection, and he possesses the quickness necessary to compete against speedy pass rushers. Reiff also has the ability to play either tackle or guard, giving Detroit the option to use him at multiple positions."
"Riley Reiff was a surprise slip to the Lions after he didn’t go in the Nos. 10 through 12 range. They have excellent offensive skill players such as Calvin Johnson to help Matt Stafford, but with Jeff Backus near the end up front, they need to better protect Stafford. Reiff might start on the right before settling in as a stout left tackle for them."
Sigmund Bloom – Bleacher Report:
"Last time an Iowa offensive tackle projected in the top-15 fell into the 20s, Green Bay pounced on Bryan Bulaga. He’s turned into a stud. The Lions hope they found the same in Riley Reiff, who will help give the Lions more push up front in the running game."
Like what you see? Give SideLion Report a “like” on facebook, become a follower on twitter, or grab ourRSS feed.