2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Ronnie Stanley (78) prepares to block Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets linebacker Tyler Marcordes (35) at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
7. Detroit Lions (4-9)- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
The Detroit Lions have looked much better over the past few weeks which seems to coincide with Jim Bob Cooter taking over as offensive coordinator. He’s pushing all the right buttons which includes getting Matthew Stafford back on track and making the most of the talent on the roster.
Despite the improvements, there are still issues on the offensive side of the ball that need to be addressed. An elite offensive tackle such as Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley would be an immediate help at a position of need.
Riley Reiff is a pending free agent and has seen his play level off. He would benefit from a move to the right tackle position. A duo of Reiff and Stanley would do wonders to not only keep Stafford upright but also improve the running game.
The Lions could also be in the market for a defensive prospect such as Ole Miss’ Robert Nkemdiche who is capable of generating pressure on the quarterback. Nkemdiche would represent a great complement to Haloti Ngata because he does a good job gaining inside pressure.
There’s a bit of a wildcard scenario here that could see the Lions targeting a quarterback. Detroit is in the process of shaking up their entire front office. These type of changes put everyone on shaking ground.
Next: No. 8 Miami