Understanding the NFL Draft and the Detroit Lions Needs
By Mike Payton
Defensive Tackle
Nov 15, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (50)in action against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The popular choice in almost every mock draft you’ve read this offseason has been defensive tackle. It’s more of a default choice than anything. The idea being that the loss of Suh and Fairley has left the Lions with two defensive ends and a gaping hole in the middle of them.
The truth is the Lions have depth at the defensive tackle position that will provide solid play for the Lions in 2015. This is a position of need because the Lions need a defensive talent that can help in the future. If the Lions can get a guy like Grady Jarrett in the 2nd or 3rd round, they will get a guy that can contribute right away and grow into the system.
The urgency for the Lions to refill this position is just not what Mel Kiper would have you think it is. The Lions would be wise to pass on this position in the 1st round.
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