2010 Reader Mock: Lions on the clock with the No. 2 pick

[Walter]

Voting for the No. 2 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Results and some comments will be posted here.


http://walterfootball.com/draft2010reader.php

[rphx88]

easy pick because of what happened to stafford last year
he needs protection

[PaddyPatriot]

I think they've got enough money invested in that D-Line to rule out Suh or McCoy.

Its still the Lions but I think they're ready to truly support Stafford as the face of their franchise.

[Cicero]

The Lions showed last year that their draft strategy is to go almost purely BPA until they acquire enough pieces that this is no longer practical. I think they'll have Suh and McCoy both rated higher than Okung and that one of them will be the pick. If they were willing to pass on a LT (Oher) for a TE then I don't see how they're going to pass on an elite DT prospect.

[Chg91]

The Lions showed last year that their draft strategy is to go almost purely BPA until they acquire enough pieces that this is no longer practical. I think they'll have Suh and McCoy both rated higher than Okung and that one of them will be the pick. If they were willing to pass on a LT (Oher) for a TE then I don't see how they're going to pass on an elite DT prospect.

I agree with this 100%, and think McCoy would make a better fit alongside Sammie Lee Hill at this point.

It's not the pick I think they should make, but it is the one they will make.

[dedrion99]

Even though the Lions need Russell Okung, even though they already got Corey Williams, they showed last draft that they drafted BPA. The best two prospects in this draft are Eric Berry and Ndamukong Suh, and as Walt always writes, defensive backs aren't taken in the first 3 picks.

[chrispepper]

Lions should be looking to protect their investment with this pick and with a LT in place like Russell Okung they could have a very potent offence with maybe only a running back and #3 reciever needed. However Jim Shwartz has already crazily stated how he thought Jeff Backus had a great year only giving up NINE sacks.. If this was my pick I would protect Matt stafford and take russell okung however with Jim being a d co-ordinator and when you have an albert hanyesworth potential figure, I wouldn't be surprised if this pick was Suh.

[Blazedestin]

Corey Williams rules out Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy. I think Delmas is good enough to make a decent safety group with anyone competent (Daniel Bullocks isn't awful, but he's not great), and thus they need to take Okung to protect Stafford's blindside.

[Cicero]

Corey Williams rules out Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy. I think Delmas is good enough to make a decent safety group with anyone competent (Daniel Bullocks isn't awful, but he's not great), and thus they need to take Okung to protect Stafford's blindside.

Here's what Williams has left in his contract. . 2010: $4.2 million (+ $1.7 million roster bonus), 2011-2012: $4.9 million, 2013: $5.4 million, 2014: Free Agent

Do you really think that's enough to keep them from taking Suh or McCoy? Then look what Seattle did with Curry. Even though we already had Hill and Tatupu Curry was still the pick.

[Arcade]

I don't think the Corey Williams trade precludes the Lions from taking Suh/McCoy, but I still think they'll go Okung. For all we know, all the Backus praise could be a smokescreen to try and keep the Skins/Chiefs from trading up to No. 1. But the Lions have not ruled out drafting a tackle. They've said that Backus is a good player, and I don't think they'd be opposed to having that player at guard.

Schwartz thinking Backus is good doesn't preclude the Lions from taking Okung.

[guru_92]

Sammie Lee Hill played good enough last season to get a starting job this season. They just traded for Corey Williams who could be a great pick-up if he plays like he has been in the 4-3. They now got 2 starting caliber DT's the young guy in Hill, and the veteran guy in Williams who can teach Hill. It's just don't make any sense to me to take a DT #2 overall. If they take Okung, they could possibly move Backus to the right side and slide Cherilus inside. This looks like a smart move to me, and this is just the type of smart moves that Millen couldn't do, although they could go BPA and draft Suh, or even a once-in-a-decade prospect in Berry like they did with Calvin Johnson a few years ago.

[claretnbluelad]

Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming after my quarterback twice a season each....... Id like to welcome Russell Okung to Detroit.

[Arcade]

Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming after my quarterback twice a season each....... Id like to welcome Russell Okung to Detroit.

Next year, the Lions line has to contend with:

Peppers(x2), Allen(x2), Matthews(x2), Trent Cole, Rex Ryan, and Demarcus Ware.

:...

[trr05]

Theres a reason Backus has stayed in Detroit for 10 years despite the revolving door in coaching personnel....he's really not that bad (but hes no "pro bowler," lol). I honestly dont understand how kicking him inside makes much sense for the long term protection of stafford...he's 33 years old and we'd basically be making him the highest paid guard in the league! With cherilus and raiola already making a lot of money, if the lions draft okung at #2 im pretty sure theyd be locking themselves into having the highest paid offensive line in the league. I GUARANTEE the front office knows this, which is why Mayhew/Schwartz are only thinking about adding the best available talent. I think that despite detroit's best efforts to put up smokescreens, their plans are pretty transparent because they are simple and practical...sorry Walt, but despite what Schwartz has said, there is a 0% chance Backus plays guard this season (they'd cut him long before that happened because we could get someone just as serviceable in rd 3 or 4 and he'd NEVER take a pay cut to stay in detorit to play a position he hasnt played in yearsl). O, and guru92, Cherilus fukin sucks and your plan makes no sense because even Shwartz said Cherilus cant play guard because he is too "tall and rangy." I will admit, I do think detroit wants a better option than backus and i do think this is going to be backus' last year as a lion...so i do understand the logic behind mocking Okung, but thats not how THIS front office sets its board. I may change my mind on this, but at least for now, i think they are doing the right thing by going defense...they cant be overly concerned with protecting stafford or what other teams in the division are doing...they need to add playmakers which makes suh, mccoy, or berry the best options. I say that tho with unfounded confidence that in the first half of the draft they ALSO address the oline...i truly believe they will try and trade up for iupati or take a lt in rd 2-3 who can play guard this season and step in for backus in 2011.

I also want to quickly dismiss the notion that playing jared allen, julius peppers, and clay matthews will somehow scare the lions into taking okung...that is NONSENSE! For one, if anything the vikings, packers, and bears should be feared because of their growth/strength on the offensive side of the ball. Secondly, the lions dont care about what the rest of the nfc north is doing...they are not trying to "keep up"...they are doing their own thing to make the best team they can. Look, the steelers, giants, and chargers have showed everyone how to build a successful franchise and protect a 1st round qb...you dont need 1st rounders on the oline too...you need playmakers and a strong leader/player at qb. I believe, and so does Mayhew/Schwartz, they have that qb in stafford...they know he's a big boy and doesnt need to be surrounded with "protection"...what he needs is a defense that provides decent field position and doesnt put him behind 21 points in the 1st quarter.

Also, for you everyone voting for Okung...dont forget that this means you are giving the lions a 0% chance of trading out of the #2 spot. Im not entirely confident a trade will happen, but if it does...this pick is guaranteed to be suh/mccoy.

[Arcade]

Theres a reason Backus has stayed in Detroit for 10 years despite the revolving door in coaching personnel....he's really not that bad (but hes no "pro bowler," lol). I honestly dont understand how kicking him inside makes much sense for the long term protection of stafford...he's 33 years old and we'd basically be making him the highest paid guard in the league! With cherilus and raiola already making a lot of money, if the lions draft okung at #2 im pretty sure theyd be locking themselves into having the highest paid offensive line in the league. I GUARANTEE the front office knows this, which is why Mayhew/Schwartz are only thinking about adding the best available talent. I think that despite detroit's best efforts to put up smokescreens, their plans are pretty transparent because they are simple and practical...sorry Walt, but despite what Schwartz has said, there is a 0% chance Backus plays guard this season (they'd cut him long before that happened because we could get someone just as serviceable in rd 3 or 4 and he'd NEVER take a pay cut to stay in detorit to play a position he hasnt played in yearsl). O, and guru92, Cherilus fukin sucks and your plan makes no sense because even Shwartz said Cherilus cant play guard because he is too "tall and rangy." I will admit, I do think detroit wants a better option than backus and i do think this is going to be backus' last year as a lion...so i do understand the logic behind mocking Okung, but thats not how THIS front office sets its board. I may change my mind on this, but at least for now, i think they are doing the right thing by going defense...they cant be overly concerned with protecting stafford or what other teams in the division are doing...they need to add playmakers which makes suh, mccoy, or berry the best options. I say that tho with unfounded confidence that in the first half of the draft they ALSO address the oline...i truly believe they will try and trade up for iupati or take a lt in rd 2-3 who can play guard this season and step in for backus in 2011.

I also want to quickly dismiss the notion that playing jared allen, julius peppers, and clay matthews will somehow scare the lions into taking okung...that is NONSENSE! For one, if anything the vikings, packers, and bears should be feared because of their growth/strength on the offensive side of the ball. Secondly, the lions dont care about what the rest of the nfc north is doing...they are not trying to "keep up"...they are doing there own thing to make the best team they can. Look, the steelers, giants, and chargers have showed everyone how to build a successful franchise...you dont need 1st rounders on the oline to protect a qb...you need playmakers and a strong leader/player at qb. I believe, and so does Mayhew/Schwartz, they have that qb in stafford...they know he's a big boy and doesnt need to be surrounded with "protection"...what he needs is a defense that provides decent field position and doesnt put him behind 21 points in the 1st quarter.

Also, for you everyone voting for Okung...dont forget that this means you are giving the lions a 0% chance of the lions trading out of the #2 spot. Im not entirely confident a trade will happen, but if it does...this pick is guaranteed to be suh/mccoy.

This is a really excellent post.

[Colts Homer]

The Lions said they were going BPA before free agency. I don't see why they would have changed that. Unless somehow Gerald McCoy or Russell Okung are rated over Suh, they will take Ndamukong. There is no doubt in my mind that is where they will go.

[pantherfaninfl]

Not so fast with Okung to the Lions, yes Detroit needs to protect Stafford, but just think about this.
If Schwartz even thinks for one second Suh, or McCoy can be the next Albert Haynesworth, I think they will be the pick.
Schwarts saw single with his own eyes with how one ultra dominant defense tackles can shield all of your problems on defense with the titans.

I think of the two McCoy will be the pick, in Schwartz's system, he uses the gap penetrators, not the point of attack players.

[PrezKWAWF]

After trading for Corey Williams, it is hard to believe the Lions would be willing to invest anymore money into the defensive tackle position. They do have Sammie Hill who looked very good his rookie season. As of right now I believe the Lions will decide to invest in the protection of Matt Stafford and take the best offensive tackle in the draft. With that the Lions upgrade two positions with one pick. Jeff Backus would be moved to guard. Suh is still a option.

[hotbyoungturk]

Russell Okung will be the Lions pick. They need someone to protect Stafford for years to come. With staffords arm, they want to protect him b/c he can change the state of that franchise.

Okung is the obvious choice, and was the obvious chose even before they acquired Corey Williams from Cleveland. You want to improve on defense, but this league has changed so much. There is a pass first mentality now, and you must be able to score points at any point in the game.

Okung, Welcome to Detroit.

[Buck Melanoma]

Should be: Okung
Will be: Suh

Maybe the Backus support is a smoke screen, but for who? The Rams aren't likely to take him.

Schwartz is a defense-minded guy. Recent FA moves won't preclude him taking a manimal like Suh.

[Tennesseefan10s]

The Lions just traded for Corey Williams, perhaps hinting that they want Russel Okung though, and drafting a DT would mean too much money invested in the interior of their D-Line. Plus, Jeff Backus could move to guard, allowing Okung to be the one to go up against Jared Allen, Clay Matthews, and the newly signed Julius Peppers. It finally looks as though the Lions will make the smart move and protect their investment in Matthew Stafford.

[FoDaddy]

The Lion's definitely need to improve their O-line. D-Line is not as much of a need. If you think they need both, it is more likely they will grab a starter at DT in Rd. 2 than a starter at OT. If they don't get their O-line fixed they will not be able to maximize C. Johnson, Stafford, Pettigrew, & Smith to a lesser degree. Lions "NEED" to go Left Tackle.

[broncofan7]

Hey Joey Harrington how did Jeff Backus work out for you?

My point exactly, this pick MUST be a tackle.

[BobLoblaw]

Not only did this team just trade for Williams and his huge contract, they also signed Kyle VandenBosch to a $26 million deal. I don't see how they can justify spending #2 overall money on a DT after that. They may actually go with Berry, because they're the Lions, but they got the #1 pick right last year, and I think they'll actually get the pick right again this year with Okung.

[piazzajordan2]

You have to protect the guy you paid big bucks for, Matthew Stafford. And with Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming off the edge 8 games a year, it's hard not to go OT. Suh can help your d-line, but what about Corey Williams? You're putting too much money in one position, and that's why the Rams won't take Suh or McCoy. With Okung, you are putting the pieces together for an elite offense. They defiantly can't afford going BPA with Suh (Or last year with Pettigrew) again. The pick will be Okung.

[Myth2ry]

Cicero and trr05 nailed it. Just a couple things I want to add.

First, Suh is clearly the most dominant defensive player last year, and has consistently been excellent throughout his college career. Even though the scheme they used was not tailored to bring stats to Suh, he achieved some significant stats. He's not perfect, but he's got the things that will make him a pro-bowler: physical ability and the desire to be great.

Okung's has skills, but he plays down to the level of his competition too often. He has had moments of dominance but is NOT in the same class as the #1 LTs from the last few years. I'm not sure he's even top 5 worthy.

Mayhew wants to trade down. But he also understands the value of the pick that he holds. As a GM, he looks long term, and wants to build the team with a solid core of players: QB, OL, DL. But he has also shown that he will not pass up talent to fill holes. St. Louis may be the only other team that lacks talent as much as the Lions. And Mayhew knows that in the long haul, he needs blue chip players more than hole stuffers. On top of that, Mayhew is a bargain hunter, and likes to garage sale from other teams. Getting Corey Williams was a garage sale find. But that does not mean he feels he's done with the d-line.

Sammie was a bargain in the 4th round last year, and he outplayed his draft position. But that doesn't mean he's a pro-bowler just yet. He had more than a few moments when he played like a rookie transitioning from a small school, and going into his 2nd season they aren't quite ready to anoint him as the savior of the d-line. Additionally, Grady Jackson was let go and they need one more legit DT for their rotation ...a rotation which they deem important. Suh, Hill and Williams would make a very nice DT rotation.

Schwartz wants to win now. Not only that, but his pride is hinged on the success of the defense. He was visibly embarrassed by the defense he put out there last year. He has made it a priority to improve the defense, in particular the d-line as he showed by going out to Kyle VandenBosch at midnight. Anybody who was forced to watch the Lion defense last year will know that there was very little pressure on the opposing QB from the d-line. When the DEs did beat their man, the QB would just step up into the pocket. I think Schwartz is still trying to unlock his jaw.

Gunther was lacking a lot of pieces to make the defense work but he still kept them hanging in there somehow. Everyone knows that statistically the Lions were not good, but I credit Gunther with getting every last bit he could out of those guys. They hung in the games most of the time, even though they were severely outclassed talent-wise, and the beatings could have been a lot worse. Yeah, I know...hard to believe, right?

Suh is the Calvin Johnson of this draft class. Mayhew will not be able to trade out of the #2, and he knows passing up a blue chipper to fill a hole is not the way to build a team. Schwartz and Cunningham are slavering over themselves with what they could do if they have a d-line that can win the LOS. This time around Mayhew's and Schwartz' goals dovetail. Suh.

[luckYman]

Suh is the better player, but if Schwartz is not completely dumb, he has to protect Stafford. Therefor: Okung.

[EllijayFalconsFan]

The pick here is going to be Okung. Last season the Lions secured a franchise quarterback in Matthew Stafford and they went on to take the BPA with Brandon Pettigrew. This season I they will protect the huge investment they made with a LT. Okung is the best LT in this class and will be a frachise piece for the Lions. If you are picking at the top of the draft you have something I call a "fatal flaw" in your team. Either you do not have a franchise QB or that QB is getting killed. A DT fills neither of those spots. Even if Suh or Mcoy turn out to be a good player how many games will that win them??? None. QB, LT THAT is what you secure when you are in the top 5. Okung will be the pick, the Lions get it now and may surprise people in 10'.

[piazzajordan2]

Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming after my quarterback twice a season each....... Id like to welcome Russell Okung to Detroit.

Sh*t. Didn't catch this post. Nice.

[wraith36444]

I think the pick will probably be Ndamakong Suh. I had the Rams taking Gerald McCoy with the first selection, obviously the Lions cannot take him here. Eric Berry will not be the pick for two reasons. The Lions invested a high round draft choice into Louis Delmas last year as well as the fact that defensive backs have never been chosen in the top three picks. So this leaves this pick down to Ndamakong Suh and Russel Okung.

Many people think the Lions should take Russel Okung because people believe that Jeff Backcus is inept because he gives up too many sacks. While Backus did not have a great year last year, he still only gave up eight sacks, in eleven hundred snaps. Here are some other players that gave up at least eight sacks in the season: David Diehl, Eugene Monroe, Ryan Clady, Bryant McKinnie and Max Starks. Jordan Gross gave up seven sacks, but only played in half as many snaps as Backus did. Clearly, the Giants are in no hurry to replace Diehl the Broncos are in no rush to replace Clady and the Panthers are in no rush to replace Gross, all of whom who had just as bad or worse seasons. I cannot see the Lions in any hurry to replace Backus, who may not be great, but clearly is not servicable at the very least.

However, the Lions are in desperate need of defensive help. Last year, the Lions gave up a pathetic 4.8 yards per carry to opposing running backs. Adding in Corey Williams is a start, but if the Lions believe that Suh is the real deal, they have to pull the trigger on him. Remember, Jim Schwartz was used to having a dominant player like Albert Haynesworth on his defensive line, and may view this as a chance to place another dominant defensive lineman on his defense. Suh will be the pick.

[vikingfan173]

in the end they will take Okung over Suh even though that isnt the route i would take, they need defense

[LevanceFieldsRules]

This pick must be Okung. After a while... every organization in the NFL has to come to their senses. When you invest a first overall pick and that much money into a QB then all that money in free agency into your defensive line, isn't it obvious to take an offensive lineman? Well, it's obvious to me. But I'm not running this team that anually picks in the top-5.

[gogators#1]

The Lions should take Okung, but I think they will draft Berry instead because Jim Schwartz loves Jeff Backus and the Lions already adressed defensive line. Plus we all know William Clay Ford loves to screw over Lions fans on draft day.

[chicagojay]

My thinking behind this..

Okung is a premier left tackle prospect and with him Stafford and Johnson you have your core for the next 10 years that could work like the Colts did with Manning, Glenn and Harrison. It also allows them to prolong Backus' career by moving him to guard which is his best position IMO. Sammie Lee Hill is the Tony Brown of Jim Schwarz defense so that eliminates McCoy as a 3 tech.Corey Williams is the Albert Haynesworth of that defense at 320 with pass rushing skills. Granted Williams is no way near Haynesworths level but he is a decent starter. The Lions should be able to find a defensive tackle as part of the rotation in the latter rounds (D'Anthony Smith anyone?) but they won't find a franchise left tackle there.

[Red-headed step-child]

I think it'll be Okung. They've made upgrades to the defensive line and it wouldn't make since to invest another pick into it. They should pick Okung to protect Stafford.

[Smith89]

Jim Schwartz has mentioned that LG is a big need. Drafting Okung and sliding Backus inside kills two birds with one stone.

[PaddyPatriot]

Jim Schwartz has mentioned that LG is a big need. Drafting Okung and sliding Backus inside kills two birds with one stone.

While I still think Okung will be the pick, we have to consider it would be just as easy to pick Suh and get a LG in the 2nd round as to pick Okung and get a DT in the 2nd.

[JGatt]

In trading for Corey Williams, along with the fact that Jim Schwartz has come out and said Jeff Backus would be a great left guard, there is no chance that this pick is anyone other than Russel Okung, the best left tackle in the draft.

[Ckane138]

You have to protect the guy you paid big bucks for, Matthew Stafford. And with Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming off the edge 8 times a year, it's hard not to go OT. Suh can help your d-line, but what about Corey Williams? You're putting too much money in one position, and that's why the Rams won't take Suh or McCoy. With Okung, you are putting the pieces together for an elite offense. They defiantly can't afford going BPA with Suh (Or last year with Pettigrew) again. The pick will be Okung.

"math has... or have... debacled us all"

I think it's Okung for obvious reasons. Even though this regime went BPA with the 20th pick and onward last year, they passed on better players for positional value by taking Stafford over Crabtree, Curry, Jason Smith and others with the top pick. Also last year when they picked BPA they were also filling needs. Defensive tackle could use some upgrading or depth, but their defensive line is only to get better and just isn't a pressing need for the Lions like tight end, safety, linebacker and everything else they picked last year. A team like the Lions with so many needs should work on filling out the depth chart before getting carried away adding depth or upgrading non-needs.

[Sean McG]

Something tells me that building a dominant defensive front by taking Suh will entice Schwartz, but I'm still voting for Okung here. I know they passed on Oher to get a prospect they valued more, but last year they hadn't witnessed their 72 million dollar man get pummeled all year and be put on IR. Like others have said, it also allows them to move Backus to LG and improve two spots on their line for the price of one. With a decent line, the Lions offense has a ton of potential with Stafford, Megatron, Pettigrew, Smith, Burleson, etc.

[geek101]

I honestly think on draft day, the Lions take Suh. Although it might not be the best move for the franchise, they seem to think their o-line is ok and Schwartzy won't be able to resist the temptation to see how awesome of a defense he can build around Suh.

However I will vote for Okung.

Okung makes the most sense, but we're talking about the lions here. However, if they take Suh, I doubt Matty S lives past his 27th birthday facing "Orange" Julius Peppers, Jared Allen, and Clay Matthews twice each every year. Even though this is the Lions, Schwartz has put his career in Detroit on the arm of Matt Stafford, and he will do what he has to get him to succeed.

[mycarman]

Detroit Inc. believes that Jeff Backus is an all-pro player who holds the line together. Rumor is that his name actually means house of spears and since the Lions love him so much they are going to take another one in Ndamukong Suh.

[piazzajordan2]

"math has... or have... debacled us all".

LOL I meant 8 games a year.

[Arcade]

I think the pick will probably be Ndamakong Suh. I had the Rams taking Gerald McCoy with the first selection, obviously the Lions cannot take him here. Eric Berry will not be the pick for two reasons. The Lions invested a high round draft choice into Louis Delmas last year as well as the fact that defensive backs have never been chosen in the top three picks. So this leaves this pick down to Ndamakong Suh and Russel Okung.

Many people think the Lions should take Russel Okung because people believe that Jeff Backcus is inept because he gives up too many sacks. While Backus did not have a great year last year, he still only gave up eight sacks, in eleven hundred snaps. Here are some other players that gave up at least eight sacks in the season: David Diehl, Eugene Monroe, Ryan Clady, Bryant McKinnie and Max Starks. Jordan Gross gave up seven sacks, but only played in half as many snaps as Backus did. Clearly, the Giants are in no hurry to replace Diehl the Broncos are in no rush to replace Clady and the Panthers are in no rush to replace Gross, all of whom who had just as bad or worse seasons. I cannot see the Lions in any hurry to replace Backus, who may not be great, but clearly is not servicable at the very least.

However, the Lions are in desperate need of defensive help. Last year, the Lions gave up a pathetic 4.8 yards per carry to opposing running backs. Adding in Corey Williams is a start, but if the Lions believe that Suh is the real deal, they have to pull the trigger on him. Remember, Jim Schwartz was used to having a dominant player like Albert Haynesworth on his defensive line, and may view this as a chance to place another dominant defensive lineman on his defense. Suh will be the pick.

You can make the same exact case for the Rams not taking McCoy as you can the Lions not taking Berry. The Rams have invested much higher picks on the defensive line, and they've done it ****ing twice, and only one DT has ever gone No. 1 overall.

Didn't Backus not give up a ton of sacks, but give up a mindblowing amount of pressures and QB hits?

[Dr.Dre]

McCoy is a lock.

[wraith36444]

You can make the same exact case for the Rams not taking McCoy as you can the Lions not taking Berry. The Rams have invested much higher picks on the defensive line, and they've done it ****ing twice, and only one DT has ever gone No. 1 overall.

Didn't Backus not give up a ton of sacks, but give up a mindblowing amount of pressures and QB hits?

I also mentioned that the Rams like to go with the perceived safest pick in the draft. Long was also drafted by the last regime.

PFF is a decent inidcator of this so:

Jeff Backus gave up 6 QB hits in 2009. This is not so bad, and once again I will list a few tackles who surrendered 6 or more QB Hits: Michael Roos, Matt Light, Ryan Clady, Eric Winston, both Jaguars tackles, Michael Oher, Nick Kaczur, Chris Williams, Duane Brown, David Diehl.

Jeff Backus gave up 27 pressures in 2009. Some of the tackles who gave up that many or more: Sam Baker, David Diehl, Duane Brown, Chris Williams, Orlando Pace, the Tampa tackles.

And this is not even including adjusting for people who played not as many snaps and extrapolating their total for 1100 snaps.

[wraith36444]

You have to protect the guy you paid big bucks for, Matthew Stafford. And with Julius Peppers, Jared Allen and Clay Matthews coming off the edge 8 games a year, it's hard not to go OT. Suh can help your d-line, but what about Corey Williams? You're putting too much money in one position, and that's why the Rams won't take Suh or McCoy. With Okung, you are putting the pieces together for an elite offense. They defiantly can't afford going BPA with Suh (Or last year with Pettigrew) again. The pick will be Okung.

First you tell us you cannot spell. Now you cannot do simple multiplication? What can you do?

/sarcasm

[Ckane138]

LOL I meant 8 games a year.

Try just one more time. You almost got it...

[pick6]

The Lions obviously need an upgrade at OT, but the Lions are saying the love Jeff Backus. Smokescreen, possibly. I still think that they try to make their DL a strength and pick up Suh.

[giantsfan6017]

The pick will be berry because Williams and hill complete the DT position, and the lions believe in backus(unfortunately)

[trisoman]

This would've been Ndamukong Suh, but for the trade for Corey Williams. Up to that trade, I was pretty sure Suh would go 2nd, but from a purely financial POV that now just seems suicidal and stupid.

But hey, that's usually how the Lions roll eh.

[piazzajordan2]

Try just one more time. You almost got it...

What do you want me too say? 8 games a season? If you think that I'm meaning that they are playing a team that consists of Matthews, Peppers and Allen and they play that team 8 times a year that is not what i'm saying lol

[derrick]

I personally thought that Okung was number one since day one for the Lions, think about it Stafford was slayed last year and they have to protect him before he gets gunshy, and just starts throwing it up (delhomme) and all the money they hgave invested in Stafford it makes for a good idea to draft Okung I mean Stafford was already out last year a few games from getting slayed by defenses just the smartest pick.

[coachcole576]

I would hope that the lions have enough brains to pick a elite Offensive Tackle prospect they need the protection along the offensive line and they would be able to fill 2 needs at the same time. I can't believe that the Lions think that highly of Jeff Backus and I belive that the whole Jeff Backus=greatness is a smokeskreen to move down in the draft and get another pick in the process

[SirA]

Jim Schwartz has mentioned that LG is a big need. Drafting Okung and sliding Backus inside kills two birds with one stone.

And here is a report from ESPN Insider that talks about the Lions bringing in a LG free agent next week. More evidence that it will be Suh and not Okung.



Chester Pitts -- who entered the league with the Houston Texans at the same time as David Carr -- is recuperating from a knee injury, but is also wading through free agency. This week on Sirius NFL Radio, he listed four teams that were showing interest in him: Detroit, Seattle, Cincinnati and Miami. According to John Niyo of the Detroit News, the Lions will be the first to host him, and that will take place on Wednesday. Niyo also reports that Chester will visit the 49ers sometime next week.

If the Lions do sign him, it further advances the idea that they won't be taking Russell Okung with the No. 2 overall pick (an idea we don't believe in to begin with). In the Okung Scenario, current LT Jeff Backus slides to LG, and LG is Pitts' likely position if he signs in Motown.

[Ckane138]

What do you want me too say? 8 games a season? If you think that I'm meaning that they are playing a team that consists of Matthews, Peppers and Allen and they play that team 8 times a year that is not what i'm saying lol

I hope this is sarcasm, otherwise this is approaching Twelth Man status. Take four?

[Cicero]

I hope this is sarcasm, otherwise this is approaching Twelth Man status. Take four?

Oh goodness...

[miamidolphin4life]

This a very interesting thing just because it's the Lions, I'd have to say with signing Kyle Vanden Bosch and trading for Corey Williams whose been very good as a 4-3 DE, I have to think the Lions take Okung. This move would finally give them that backside protector while moving Jeff Backus to Left guard. Doing so would give them a 2 for 1 upgrade and the Lions would be well on their way to finally being able to compete again and everyone will see why Matt Stafford was the 1st overall pick last year

[piazzajordan2]

It is sarcasm dummy lol

[JerryWrasse]

The pick is Okung. The Lions have continuallly praised Backus this offseason, because it makes no sense to publicly criticize one of your players. Assuming the Lions have Okung graded similar to McCoy and Suh, they have to go with Okung based on positional value. After hearing recent comments by Schwartz about moving a LT to LG, it sounds like Backus will slide over one spot and Okung will start next season at LT.

[Ckane138]

It is sarcasm dummy lol

Lol. I figured / hoped so. I just wasn't sure after it you an hour to figure out the twelth man thing.

[wraith36444]

Lol. I figured / hoped so. I just wasn't sure after it you an hour to figure out the twelth man thing.

Sorry PJ, after the 12th man thing, we really cannot give you a pass on much.

[piazzajordan2]

Sorry PJ, after the 12th man thing, we really cannot give you a pass on much.

LOL It's not like people says "twelfth" all the time. If it was a common word, then that would be different.

[bsean63]

Okung

This pick is soobvious its ridiculous. The Lions want to be good right? They will look at the Falcons draft of 2008 and realize if they would take a franchise LT, they might be that good too.

[Colts Homer]

LOL It's not like people says "twelfth" all the time. If it was a common word, then that would be different.

It's common sense.

[tedawson]

Schwartz/Mayhew have preached upgrading talent first and foremost, either through the draft, FA, or trades. They will draft talent over need with every pick in the draft. Although the greatest need is for OL, either Left Guard or Tackle, the greatest talent is a DT: Suh or McCoy. The Lions have been soooo bad on defense and the rest of the Division has feasted on it. They will concentrate on shoring this unit up, or it will be another season of misery. The second round pick will probably be a CB (Wilson, McCourty, Robinson, Ghee). Besides, the draft is deep with OLine, and they can get pretty good talent in any of the rounds 3 through 7.

[mr0zip0]

Though I know many people (including Matthew Stafford) would want the Lions to take Russel Okung here, Ndamukong Suh is too dominating to pass up.

This guy is worth shaping a defense around. Weather it's making Sammie Lee Hill or Corey Williams a Defensive End (more than likley Hill) or surprising everyone, ticking off Williams, and changing to the 3-4, the Lions must take him if availible.

The Lions defense, is, well, the Lions defense. The past 5 years net points has gone like this... 31st, 32nd, 24th, 27th, and 25th. They haven't had a 16th place or better defense since 1997 in the Barry Sanders era... Wow... It is about time that Detroit gets a defense that isn't the schoolyard Joey Harrington.

Jim Schwartz has said in an interview (not sure where) that the Lions have not finished their job in free agency. This may just include pursuing a dominent guard like Bobbie Williams, Marshal Yanda, Rob Sims, or maybe even the OT Tauscher.

If the Lions actually do these two things, I may (emphasize may) just predict an 8-8 and a wildcard spot for the Lions.

[Roddoliver]

The Lions had their LT in Michael Oher but they chose to draft a TE. Now, be patient. They chose to have Jeff Backus at LT. I don't think a DT like Ndamukong Suh comes every year, in fact he is a rare talent. They also need a lot of help on defense and their recent signigns do not mean they are set at DT. I believe it's easier for Stafford to complete a pass than see their DL stop the run or sack the quarterback. So, my choice is Ndamukong Suh. I think they can get a quality OT with 1st round talent like Tony Washington in round 2.

[The Good Doctor]

The Lions will stick with the 'best player available' mentality, which I don't totally disagree with in their situation. The pick will be Ndamukong Suh, and it should be.

[texanfan194]

Lions fans had better hope their front office watched the early Texans teams, and if they did they will draft Russel Okung. If they don't take him, Matt Stafford can hang out with David Carr at the Shelter for the Brain Damaged after he takes 70 sacks next year.

[bulldog0123]

Suh will be the pick because the Lions like their current LT.

[Joey_Potter]

I going with Suh. I mean, Detroit likes the bad guy on the left. So why not give them someone to dominate on the inside until they get smart.

[Nintova]

Long story short, it's Suh. DTs like him can be the cornerstone of a dominating defense. Jim S. is a defensive minded coach who had Fat Albert at one time. He looks to solidify a defense that he has been molding in his image.

[Professor]

The smart move would be Okung as they have Williams and solid depth at the middle of the line. Talent could tempt the Lions into taking one of the two big boys, but with Millen out of town. I really don't see the Lions screwing this one up, it is the Lions though.

[Michigan-Sports-Fan]

I have heard Suh described as the best defensive prospect to come out in the last 10 years, 20 years, and even ever. A "once in a generation prospect". So I find it hard to believe that acquring two other defensive line players for perhaps the worst line in football would rule out his selection. To me it comes down to the question would you pass on Barry Sanders because you had just acquired another running back for the worst backfield in the NFL? I don't think so and I hope not. While they may not be of the caliber of Russell Okung, there are other players who can be selected in the 2nd or even 3rd round to beef up the OL. The pick should be Suh.