There has been a lot of hype surrounding certain draft prospects, but here is one position for the Detroit Lions that has gone under the radar.
Early into draft season, Detroit Lion’s fans have been vocal about three specific prospects as possible selections with their first round pick in the upcoming 2020 NFL Draft. Clemson linebacker/safety Isaiah Simmons, Ohio State cornerback Jeffery Okudah, and Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown have been identified as some sort of “big three.”
Obviously, Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Ohio State defensive end Chase Young have both been talked about in addition to the three previously mentioned. These five prospects are the more well known and talked about when it comes to the number three pick for Detroit.
There is one more prospect that hasn’t been given much thought and should get more consideration. Alabama right tackle, Jedrick Wills, is a strong candidate to join these other top prospects. Although it would be a very unpopular pick, it makes more sense when you dive in deeper.
When looking deeper into the Lions team needs, the right tackle is a high priority on that list. Four out of the five Lions starters are regarded well from Pro Football Focus. Right tackle Rick Wagner, does not receive as much praise.
Two #Lions OL make the @PFF Top 25 OL entering Week 16. C Frank Ragnow has thrived after his position switch and LT Taylor Decker has finally improved his run blocking to be on par with his pass blocking to put together a strong seasonhttps://t.co/Garf7p9m2X
— PFF DET Lions (@PFF_Lions) December 19, 2019
Left guard Joe Dahl is not far behind them either. Wagner doesn’t even rank in the top 20 in his position. If the Lions offense wants to take the next step, adding a right tackle would help them do that. If they can’t do that in free agency, there are good options in the draft. Jedrick Wills might be the best of them.
Wills been a fast riser, so it’s understandable if the name isn’t recognizable. Over the last two weeks, his name has been popping up more and more. He played in every game this season and only allowed one sack on 14 pressures.
Wills has the responsibility of blocking for Tua Tagovailoa, who is a rare lefty quarterback. That means Wills plays his position with a left tackle’s mentality. As Tua’s blindside is on the right side, he sees everything on the left side. Wills has flexibility, he has the makeup to play both tackle spots, something that general manager Bob Quinn is known to love.
Overview
Now, Wills at pick number three could be a little bit of a reach. Although trading down to pick five or six and then pulling on the trigger is a genuine possibility. The initial reaction could be a bit much but in all consideration.
If the Lions decided to focus on defense in free agency, taking an offensive lineman isn’t that crazy. Keeping quarterback Matthew Stafford upright and healthy should be a top priority outside of upgrading the defensive.
What do you guys think? Should the Lions stay away from an offensive lineman in the top half of the draft? Who do you want them to take? Make sure to tell us in the comment section below!