The Detroit Lions used the No. 2 overall pick on DT Ndamukong Suh last year and, in the 2011 NFL draft, went with a defensive tackle again selecting Auburn DT Nick Fairley. Lots and lots of people love this pick for the Lions and it's easy to see why. Fairley, simply put, is a beast. Character concerns aside, this guy can play.
2011 NFL Draft Results: Run On QBs Helped Lions Snag Nick Fairley
SB Nation’s Pride Of Detroit passes along a quote from Lions GM Martin Mayhew indicating that the Lions were hopeful the run on quarterbacks -- four were selected in the 12 picks ahead of the Lions -- would allow Detroit to land Fairley.
In our mock draft yesterday, we went through some scenarios and we were hopeful that he would fall to us. We felt like the need for quarterbacks might push him down some. He was very high on our draft board and I think he really helps our defensive line - our defense as a whole. Very physical guy. He gives our defense a physical presence and we have a great tandem - actually three great defensive tackles with Corey Williams, Suh and Nick Fairley.
Suh and Fairley on the same line. Wow. Just wow. A very good defensive line has the potential to turn into a great defensive line.
Check out Pride Of Detroit to see what Lions fans are saying about that massive defensive line.
The first round of the 2011 NFL draft is in the books. Check out SB Nation’s recap of first round draft picks, NFL draft grades and our round 2 mock draft as we prepare for another day of NFL draft festivities. Also be sure to check out SB Nation’s NFL draft hub and Mocking The Draft to stay caught up on all things NFL draft.
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