Jack Conklin’s journey as a walk-on from Plainwell to an All-American in East Lansing has a new benchmark.
First-round draft pick.
The Tennessee Titans traded up with the Cleveland Browns and selected Conklin with the No. 8 overall pick of the NFL Draft on Thursday night.
"I love this pick!" ESPN's Jon Gruden said on TV after the pick. "Way to go, Tennessee!"
Conklin is the first Michigan State offensive lineman to be selected in the opening round since Tony Mandarich went No. 2 overall in 1989.
"This makes sense for (Titans quarterback Marcus) Mariota, protecting with your tackles," the NFL Network's Steve Mariucci said on TV after the pick.