Detroit Lions: Ponderings From The Precipice

This represents nothing more than one man’s opinion of the upcoming NFL Draft.

Here is the disclaimer: I am no prophet, oracle, or NFL insider with unique understanding or knowledge on what Martin Mayhew will do in the NFL draft. Nor have I consulted the Tarot Cards or Tea Leaves for spiritual insight on how this draft board may playout.   

This essay represents nothing more than my predictions based on some fluid events that have unfolded in the last couple of weeks in the NFL.

Jimmy Clausen’s pro-day by all accounts thrust him into a “franchise tag” by most pundits in the know. This single event may open the door for a trade with Detroit.

The most likely taker in the Clausen sweepstakes, given that Seattle and Washington have bolstered their QB position previously, seems most likely to be Buffalo.  

Most people predicted prior to the Clausen pro-day that he would slide to Buffalo in the first round as an afterthought. But given his stellar pro-day work-out, other teams in search of a potential franchise QB may decide to jump the gun on Buffalo and inquire of Detroit first pick. Depending on Buffalo’s resolve in the matter, it seems likely they would consider moving up, if they are serious about taking Clausen.

Buffalo could presumably give up the first and second picks for the privilege of taking Clausen. If this scenario unfolds in real time, the best choice available in the first round for the Detroit Lions using Buffalo’s pick is CJ. Spiller.

Spiller had a remarkable college career busting long runs of more than twenty yards on a routine basis. He is fast, tough, and has a nose for the end zone.

In my humble opinion, Speller is the best RB to come out since a guy named Chris Johnson.  Johnson was an unheralded RB known for his speed and ability to break long runs. Spiller fits the same mold.

If this trade happens, Detroit could then use Buffalo’s, or its own second round pick swinging another deal back into the first round to nab Earl Thomas who Mayock has ahead of Eric Berry. I don’t necessarily agree with Mayock that Berry is a second fiddle to Thomas, but Earl is one tough son-of-a-bitch who hits like a freight train. Most people have Earl sliding to number twenty, so it would be easy for Detroit to trade back into the first round to get Thomas.  

The Lions could also consider taken the best CB available, but none of the top tier players at CB carry the same kick as Earl Thomas with the possible exception of Joe Hayden.

Using a second round pick of their own, the Lions could then take the best available CB, whoever that is. Consensus seems to be focused on McCorty. Another possibility might be taking a guy like Dexter McCluster and using him as a slot receiver/kick return specialist thus bolstering the receiving corps. McCluster could also be a reserve RB in the wings if injury befalls Spiller. This would give Detroit a two way punch at RB and WR positions

In the third round Detroit could correct the weakness of their offensive line by taking Ciron Black. Black was regarded as a first round selection last year, but most people now put him in the fifth round. I don’t agree with that assessment. Black is a stellar human being and character guy. And by the phrase character guy I mean you don't have to worry about the Cat carrying a weapon in Night Clubs, rape or harass women; Ciron is known for his community service, class, and leadership qualities. He could fill a big hole on Detroit's offensive line given Gosder Cherilus’ lackluster pro career thus far.

Cherilus is a good run blocker who breaks down in pass protection. Moving him to guard might be a better fit for the man.

These are just some thoughts from the precipice.