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The Lions had one of the better offensive lines in the NFL last season, as evidenced by two players initially making the Pro Bowl roster and a third being added late, ironically in place of another Lion.
Their defensive line was a solid unit as well, but with free agency coming, the group could stand to continue adding pieces. Same for the offensive line with Kevin Zeitler hitting the open market.
The latest mock draft over at Draft Wire from Curt Popejoy attacks both units in his two-round projections.
First, at No. 28 overall, the Lions go with Ohio State Edge Jack Sawyer. The national championship had a strong season overall, but made his legacy at Ohio State with his fumble return touchdown in the Cotton Bowl semifinal against Texas to secure the Buckeyes’ spot in the National Championship Game.
Sawyer had nine sacks all season. Half of them came in the playoffs — 1.5 vs. Tennessee, two vs. Oregon, one vs. Texas.
With the second-round pick, the Lions go with Alabama offensive lineman Tyler Booker. With Booker, the Lions would be getting a two-year starter at left guard at Alabama. At the very least, he serves as a depth piece to start. If Zeitler leaves in free agency, Booker can compete for a starting job. He may even crack the lineup if Zeitler stays, as Booker could very well beat out Graham Glasgow.