The Detroit Lions surprisingly missed out on the playoffs this past season, and with star wide receiver Calvin Johnson expected to retire, this team may be starting a small rebuild in 2016. That has put an increased importance on getting this draft right, particularly in the first round. With that in mind, here are three players the Lions should target with the No. 16 pick in the draft:
3) Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State Buckeyes
The first of two tackles on this list, Decker could step in and start at right tackle right away for the Lions. He makes his mark as a run-blocker, which is good since Detroit ranked dead last in the NFL in rushing last season. However, Decker is far from a slouch in pass protection.
2) A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama Crimson Tide
There's a decent chance Robinson won't be on the board when Detroit picks, but if he is, the Lions will be very tempted to delay drafting an offensive lineman to take him. A dominant athlete at 6'4" and 307 lbs, Robinson is the best run-stopping defensive lineman in the draft, but he can still be a factor in pressuring the quarterback in the passing game. Haloti Ngata is a free agent, and Robinson is someon who could step right in and replace him if Detroit doesn't re-sign Ngata.
1) Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State Spartans
Offensive line is undoubtedly the biggest need for Detroit (QB Matthew Stafford has been sacked 89 times in two years), and Conklin should be the guy at the top of their board ahead of Decker. Along with being a very good pass blocker, Conklin's long arms, strength, and quick feet also allow him to be a dominant run blocker as well.
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