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2016 NFL Mock Draft 7.0: Surprise at Number Nine

By David Harrison

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive tackle Jack Conklin (74) blocks Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) during the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive tackle Jack Conklin (74) blocks Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) during the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

OT. Michigan State. Jack Conklin. 16. player. 50.

Following the selection of Taylor Decker by the Oakland Raiders, Jack Conklin lands softly into the laps of his home state Detroit Lions.

The effect of losing Calvin Johnson to early retirement can’t be understated, but the need to protect Matthew Stafford and block for Ameer Abdullah is critical.

If the Lions’ offense is going to have any chance at being effective without Johnson then drafting the Michigan State offensive tackle is the necessary first step to establishing the protection needed.

There will be receiving options available in day two or three, but here the Lions have to strengthen the front line.

Previously:  Jack Conklin – OT – Michigan State

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