Detroit Lions Seven-Round Mock Draft: Defense Dominates Early

Fourth Round

I know what you’re thinking. Waiting until the fourth round to upgrade the Lions offensive line is too long. And they need help at the offensive tackle positions more than the interior. Yes and no. Waiting until the fourth round to address the offensive line is too long, but Bob Quinn hasn’t seem too concerned. And the Lions have just as much need for an upgrade on their very interior – the center position.

Left tackle Riley Reiff is heavily scrutinized for his adequate play. Right tackle Michael Ola doesn’t have a long track record as a starter (though he played decently during his short stint with the Lions). But outside of bringing Russel Okung in for a visit, Quinn hasn’t shown much worry for the tackle position.

And because the Lions have so many other needs to fill, I don’t think they can afford to spend their first round pick on an offensive lineman.

Seumalo offers competition for center Travis Swanson, who was very underwhelming in his first complete season as a starter. At Oregon State, Seumalo was an all-conference performer, and he was also versatile enough to play every single position along the line, with the exception of left guard.

Seumalo’s versatility makes his upside obvious. The downside? Seumalo only plays one offensive line position at a time.

Next: Round 5