2010 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions' Options for Their First Pick

With the second pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the Lions have a big problem.

They have too many options.

They can go with one of the top defensive linemen, and turn the whole line into one worthy of causing fear to opposing offenses.

They can pick the top offensive lineman, and stabilize the left side for years to come.

Or they can select the best defensive back in the draft, and have the top young safety tandem in the league.

Let's start with what's been the preferred course of action over the last three months or so; drafting Ndamukong Suh.

Suh has been so popular because of his incredible production at Nebraska. He is probably one of the most athletic 300-pounders the world has ever seen. 

After Detroit's recent additions to the defensive line, Suh would be an infusion of youth beside the veterans.

Since it's likely the Lions will have a weak secondary, a solid pass rush is vital to the team's chances of improvement. A terrible run defense would also get a huge boost from someone who can get in the backfield.

Gerald McCoy bears a close resemblance to Suh. The only complaint about him is a low bench press, which probably isn't as big a deal as it seems.

Nowadays, the landscape is shifting. More and more people are crossing their fingers that Russell Okung, the top left tackle in the draft, will be chosen.

Drafting Okung could potentially fill more than one hole. Current left tackle Jeff Backus could move to guard, the weakest position on offense.

One common argument heard for selecting Okung is that he is head and shoulders above everyone else at his position, while high-quality defensive linemen can be found later in the draft.

It is also common to hear that since Matt Stafford was drafted last year, Detroit needs to find someone to protect his blind side.

About the only non-lineman considered a possibility with the Lions' selection is Eric Berry. A playmaking safety who has a knack for finding the ball, Berry would fit well with Louis Delmas, Detroit's second-year headhunter. 

The Berry selection has not been deemed too likely to happen. He plays safety, a position rarely drafted this high.

It is also thought that an impact lineman will help Detroit much more than a defensive back or a skill position player.

This year's draft holds many possibilities. One way or another, Detroit should emerge as a stronger team with several new starters.

All Lions fans can do is sit and hope Detroit makes the right choice.