Detroit Lions Draft: Seven-Round Mock (January Edition)
By Alex Reno
Dec 6, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Blake Sims (6) looks to pass against Missouri as Crimson Tide offensive lineman Arie Kouandjio (77) blocks at left in the first quarter of the 2014 SEC Championship at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Strengths
Arie Kouandjio is a great run blocker and gets plenty of push off the line of scrimmage. He is a prototypical left guard who does a perfect job of pulling across the line and latching onto a defender to wipe them out of the play completely.
He has the frame you want for an NFL guard and has plenty of upside due to his athleticism.
Weaknesses
Kouandjio is a natural waist-bender much like his brother Cyrus (Buffalo Bills OT). This causes him to struggle in pass protection as he is easily pushed off of his blocks far too often. He lacks the ability to mirror his opponents in pass pro due to his questionable footwork.
Another possible red flag could be that he missed the entire 2011 season after suffering a knee injury.
How He Fits
Anyone listed as a tackle or a guard will likely fit for Detroit as they need as many young bodies as they can get to plug into their offensive line. Specifically though, Kouandjio would be a great fit at left guard. If the Lions decide to part ways with veteran Rob Sims, then he could immediately fight for a starting job.
Game Tape
For more videos on Arie Kouandjio visit Draft Breakdown.
Next: Round 4