Here's to the Detroit Lions for finally using the draft to build the team by selecting sure-fire NFL prospects rather than their annual "player projects."

Every year, the Lions use a second or third round pick on a player that will take time to develop. While these players are "developing," the Lions are losing every game they play.

I'm sorry, but DE Kalimba Edwards never developed, DE Ikaika Alama-Francis hasn't developed, and OT Gosder Cherilus is still developing. These players were second and third round picks that were supposed to be used to find talented starters.

Newly appointed GM Matt Mayhew, President Tom Lewand, and new head coach Jim Schwartz have publicly stated that they want to build the team through the draft.

In Chrissie Wywrot's article, "Building a Base" on detroitlions.com, Mayhew is quoted as saying, "We're not going to be jumping out there in free agency and throwing 30 million bucks at somebody on the first day at midnight," Mayhew said.

"I think the way to do it is through the draft; we do it through young guys and you develop your guys and you spend time training your guys."

It looks as though the post-Millen era is off to a great start, and with this mentality, the Lions look to be in good hands. I view this year's NFL Draft as a turning point for the much-maligned franchise.

I will be looking forward to hearing their plans moving forward and the types of players they are looking for in this year's draft.