We've seen enough. Enough mock draft content, enough big board movement, and enough nuggets from insiders to know where the Detroit Lions are leaning with their 17th overall pick.
The team wants someone imposing in the first round, as reported on by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport recently. The Lions' biggest remaining need from this offseason is still at tackle, with plans to shuffle Penei Sewell over to left tackle seemingly signaling which way they're leaning in this year's draft.
One tackle that could fill that need for Detroit, assuming he's not off the board at 17 with how much boost to his stock he's seen in recent weeks, is Georgia's Monroe Freeling. The right tackle is considered one of the best pass protectors in this year's class, and Detroit has to be intrigued by that since they could be facing some rustiness in that area from left tackle Sewell.
Lions' pick at 17th overall feels more obvious than ever
Freeling, a huge tackle, has some work to do in improving his work as a run blocker. But, with proper coaching up, he could project as a Week 1 starter for the Lions on their new-look offensive line. Shifting Sewell over to Jared Goff's blindside makes that reality feel a lot more attainable.
Another huge tackle in this class is Kadyn Proctor, who has been linked to the Lions a few times already. However, there's also been a few words of caution shared by draft analysts regarding Proctor. His size, while a plus as it pertains to his ability to move people, can also be a detriment.
READ MORE: A sneaky option for Lions' top pick might be hiding in plain sight
Detroit could also be leaning toward a pass rusher with their preference for size on the roster, but let's face it: they do not consider this to be a position of need in the same way they consider tackle to be. That was proven by their limited moves at the position in free agency, and limited moves there since drafting Aidan Hutchinson.
Amid the last 10 players taken at 17th overall in the NFL draft, only two have been offensive linemen: Zion Johnson to the Los Angeles Chargers, and Alex Leatherwood to the Las Vegas Raiders. Johnson has struggled since entering the league, finishing up his last season with a PFF grade of 57 at left guard. Leatherwood has dealt with numerous injuries that have kept him off the field, and he's largely been a non-factor so far in his career.
That's a bit of a scary track record, but this is also a good draft if you need a tackle or guard with upside in the first round. Detroit won't be the only team swinging high on either, with the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears, and Miami Dolphins just a few squads with major needs along their line.
Detroit's most likely going to stick with their type, and that's more than likely Freeling...or Proctor.
Add us as a preferred source on Google