Now that the 2012 NFL Draft is over, we're profiling each team's draft. Who were the steals? Who were the reaches? We continue with the Detroit Lions.
2012 NFL Draft analysis: Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions have quietly been putting together a string of impressive drafts, and 2012 appears to be another in a long line of solid drafting to come for the new Lions regime.
The Lions have adopted a best player available philosophy, and in the first round, the best players happened to fill a huge need, as Riley Reiff became the newest member of the organization. The team then added a trio of former Oklahoma Sooners to go with three defensive backs before the draft was over.
Ryan Broyles was added to an offense that already features some of the most dangerous weapons in the league. Matthew Stafford now not only has weapons at his disposal, but the addition of Reiff should help improve his protection.
The defense should also continue to grow. The Lions spent six of the eight selections they had on defensive players.
Questionable selection: WR Broyles, Round 2 pick 54
The thought of the Detroit offense with the addition of Broyles seems a bit unfair, provided he pans out. But the second round is a bit high for a player with his injury history, especially when the Lions did not have a desperate need at the position and could have adressed the defense.
Late-Round Steal: LB Travis Lewis, Round 7, pick 223
Travis Lewis was considered a first or second day prospect at times this season, but his stock dropped a bit heading into the NFL Draft. He definitely has some talent, and the Lions defense use every bit of talent it can find.
2013 mock draft selection: Josh D - Nico Johnson, LB, Alabama | Matthew Fairburn - Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
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