NFL Mock Draft 2011: Detroit Lions Grab Tyron Smith for Protective Purposes

April 4, 2011   ·   Alec Dopp   ·   Jump to comments

Easily the most athletic of any offensive lineman to enter this year's draft, USC's Tyron Smith would be the most sensible first-round selection for the Detroit Lions heading into 2011.

Smith's 6'5', 307-pound frame allowed him to dominate the Trojans' offensive front for the better part of four seasons, and he looks to become a serious difference maker at the NFL level.  And with Matthew Stafford's linjuries looking to solve themselves prior to the season, the Lions could potentially make a run at a playoff berth in 2011.

But, first thing first -- and the Lions are no exception to that statement.

Detroit gave up 27 sacks and 64 QB hits a season ago, and could use Smith's athletic abilities to protect Stafford for the prospective future.