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NFL Mock Draft 2018: Full first round – Who’s the Detroit Lions top pick?

By Michael Kirkland

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 25: Ezekiel Ansah of the BYU Cougars stands with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (L) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Barry Sanders (R) as they hold up a jersey on stage after Ansah was picked #5 overall by the Detroit Lions in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 25, 2013 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 25: Ezekiel Ansah of the BYU Cougars stands with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (L) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Barry Sanders (R) as they hold up a jersey on stage after Ansah was picked #5 overall by the Detroit Lions in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 25, 2013 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /
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Rankin makes a block
STARKVILLE, MS – OCTOBER 8: Defensive tackle Montravius Adams #1 of the Auburn Tigers recovers a fumble before offensive lineman Martinas Rankin #55 and offensive lineman Devon Desper #62 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs can get to the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game on October 8, 2016 in Starkville, Mississippi. (Photo by Butch Dill/Getty Images) /

60. . MINNESOTA VIKINGS (13-3). . Martinas Rankin, OT - Miss. St.. 30. player

The Vikings rode a solid defense, consistency at quarterback, and some big plays all the way to the NFC Title Game. Although the Vikings had some early injuries, especially on offense, they played good defense all year en route to a division title.

The Vike’s have to figure out their cloudy quarterback room. It is the big question for their offseason. Case Keenum, their backup, played well most of the year and into the playoffs. Teddy Bridgewater, and Sam Bradford, who have both started in Minnesota, are free agents, as is Keenum.

How they choose to proceed will have big implications for how they handle this pick. They need offensive line, cornerback, and defensive line help, otherwise.

Rankin is a 6-5, 315 lbs., with some upside. Whatever quarterback ends up in the Twin Cities, will need better protection, plus rookie running back, Dalvin Cook, should be back to pick up where he left off prior to his injury.

Rankin has worked hard to improve and has the requisite size and speed to play tackle. Also, he will not be forced to play the left side in Minnesota, alleviating some pressure.

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