Detroit Lions Draft 2016: Seven-Round Mock Draft
By Erik Schlitt
If you follow what I’ve written in the past you are familiar with my metric based thought process. Basically, I used combine and pro day data to identify specific traits and similarities within positions groups, then I examine how the Lions and Patriots (because of Quinn) draft players based on these metrics. I have identified what type of offensive tackle I believed Bob Quinn would be looking for and six of the drafts top tackles qualified.
Next, I examined the offensive tackle rankings of 15 top draft experts to get an average ranking. Laramy Tunsil ranked first and Ronnie Stanley came in second, both of whom I expect to be off the board when the Lions pick at 16. Taylor Decker and Jack Conklin came in third and forth respectively but it was very close.
After watching game film on both of them, I had a clear favorite but I wanted to dig deeper into what other local draft evaluators thought. It didn’t take long to figure out that Taylor Decker was the clear favorite. Here are some must read breakdown’s on Taylor Decker from highly respected local evaluators: Side Lion Report’s Jeff Risdon, here; and Pride of Detroit’s Alex Reno, here.
Decker’s measurements check all the boxes: 6’7″, 310 pounds, 33.75″ arms, 10″ hands, 1.80 10-yard split, and most importantly a 4.76 short shuttle (the most predictive metric in determining success for offensive lineman). Decker’s strength is on the run game so some experts are projecting him to play at right tackle. Personally I think he can play either tackle spot. I would draft him and let the coaches figure out between him and Riley Reiff who fits where.
Decker isn’t content just being a first round pick and has made efforts to improve his technique this offseason. Take a look at his training diary at former all-pro offensive lineman LeCharles Bentley‘s training facility. This is the same facility the Lions right guard Larry Warford trains at.
With Riley Reiff in a contract year and right tackle occupied by a revolving door last year, Decker can fill an immediate role in 2016 and provide insurance in 2017 if the Lions and Reiff part ways.
Next: Round 2