A big part of the Detroit Lions' lack of typical proficiency offensively last season was a drop-off in performance from the offensive line. Some of it was out of their control (Frank Ragnow retiring last June, with avenues to replace him all but closed), while injuries dampened things too.
So it's time to water the "garden", as general manager Brad Holmes once said in reference to continuing to add to the pipeline of offensive line talent. A new center was signed in free agency (Cade Mays), and depth was fortified with the signings of offensive tackle Larry Borom and guard Ben Bartch.
This offseason's notable offseason offensive line departure for the Lions, left tackle Taylor Decker, happened early enough that options to replace him have not been limited. With free agency exhausted now, taking an offensive tackle in the draft feels like a lock.
9 words have instantly made a draft prospect into a Dan Campbell guy
Pro Football Focus' mock draft simulator has Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano as the Lions' most common pick at No. 17 overall, and writer Bradley Locker outlined the fit.
"The Lions appear poised to augment their offensive line with the 17th overall pick. The question becomes which player might be in Detroit’s crosshairs, and Fano would be an outstanding fit if he falls that far."
"Fano was dominant for the Utes over the last two years, recording a 92.0 overall PFF grade while giving up only one sack and 19 pressures. His polarizing arm length and precision in pass protection may kick him inside, but his tenacious run-blocking (79.9 grade in 2025) should make an immediate difference at any spot. Whether filling Taylor Decker’s void at left tackle or competing with Christian Mahogany at guard, Fano would offer a much-needed boost to a group that fell to 11th in overall PFF grade."
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As part of his evaluation of Fano in his annual draft guide, "The Beast, Dane Brugler of The Athletic had this nugget that will surely get Lions' head coach Dan Campbell's attention.
"He plays like someone just pissed in his Cheerios."
As someone who likes Cheerios, I would not be happy if someone did that to them. But unlike me, Fano has a good physical outlet for that metaphorical anger.
Fano started his college career at left tackle, but he moved to right tackle the last two seasons and short arms (32 and 1/8 inches) confirm he'll be a right tackle (or even a guard, in some people's eyes) at the next level. That would jive with the Lions' current plan to move Penei Sewell to left tackle, which theoretically shortens the list of offensive tackles they're considering drafting.
The Lions value intangibles equally alongside someone's talent to determine who is a fit. If all other things are equal compared to other prospects, a "someone just pissed in his Cheerios" playing demeanor could very well make Fano the No. 1 offensive tackle on their draft board.