Detroit Lions draft: Offensive line options beyond the first round
Round 2-3 options
I’ll briefly discuss a few good options in each round grouping. It is highly likely that Bob Quinn is going to move a couple of times, so we can’t just look at the given picks after round one. Let me be clear, these are options that I like based on data that I can find, and rankings of scouting services.
Martinas Rankin (T)
What to like: He’s got the size (6-4, 308), and quickness (5.17 40-yard dash) that you need to play either position. Has experience at tackle, but thick enough to play on the interior. Rankin was an All-SEC performer at Mississippi State as a tackle. He is coming off of an injured ankle, though.
Brian O’Neill (T)
What to like: At a hair under 6-7, this 297 pound Pitt product has the quickness of a smaller guy. He timed a 4.80 official time in the 40-yard dash, with a 10-yard split of 1.70 seconds. O’Neill was a former tight end and wide receiver prospect coming out of high school. He’s also a three-year starter who’s even been allowed to carry the ball on several occasions. From an athlete perspective, he has everything you want; O’Neill was also an All-ACC selection as a junior.
Braden Smith (G)
What to like: Braden Smith, was a college guard at Auburn University, where he started 40 games. At 6-6, 315, though, Smith has the size and quickness to play anywhere along the line. His 35 reps (strength lifts) of 225 pounds were among the best at the combine. Looks the part of a plug-and-play guard or possible tackle in the future. Smith seems like an ideal kind of talent with the versatility that the Lions need.
Tyrell Crosby (T)
What to like: Crosby has had a meeting with the Lions, so that is the main reason he’s on this list. That’s not to say that the Oregon, All-Pac12 tackle can’t play. In 2017, he was not credited with a single quarterback pressure while playing left tackle. Crosby is 6-5, 309, and has adequate quickness but has a reputation as a player with the mean streak line coaches love. Additionally, he has played all four years, although he missed most of the 2016 campaign (all but two games) with a broken foot.