Analyzing the Detroit Lions 2015 NFL Draft Selections
By Mike Payton
Day One
Oct 11, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Laken Tomlinson (77) blocks against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The Lions made a huge move on Thursday night. Walking into the NFL Draft, the Lions had one guard on the roster in Larry Warford and a quarterback that got sacked 45 times last year. There was no doubt that the Lions would try to go offensive line early. Little did fans know, Martin Mayhew had plans much earlier than expected.
Lions trade No. 23 pick to Broncos for #28 overall (1st round),
— Michael Fabiano (@Michael_Fabiano) May 1, 2015
#143 overall (5th round), 2016 5th Round Pick, OL Manny Ramirez
This deal was in place on Wednesday. Fans were either happy about the trade or mad that the trade made them wait an extra 15-20 minutes before the Lions stepped up to the podium.
The Lions left day one with the best pass blocking guard in the NFL Draft with their selection of Laken Tomlinson. The Lions also got veteran guard and former Lion Manny Ramirez out of the deal. Matthew Stafford has to be feeling a lot better about next season knowing he will be better protected in the pocket.
The only worry i have about day one is about Laken Tomlinson. My worry is not about his play, it is about his desire. He seems like a kid that will stay committed to anything he gets involved with, but he;s also a kid with a dream of some day becoming a neurosurgeon. With football being such high contact sport, how long before Laken decides to save himself from concussion damage and start Med School?
Day One Grade: A
Next: Day Two