2017 NFL Mock Draft: Post Week 1 Update
By Jon Dove
11. Detroit Lions- Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
The Detroit Lions are in the process of remaking some parts of their roster while remaining in the playoff picture. They did a good job bringing in offense weapons like Marvin Jones and Taylor Decker to help overcome the loss of Calvin Johnson.
Defensively, they need to work on upgrading the overall talent of the linebacker corps. Tahir Whitehead and Deandre Levy are good outside linebackers, but they lack a playmaker in the middle.
Alabama’s Reuben Foster is a game changer who is always around the football. He features the size needed to play near the line of scrimmage as well as the speed to make plays sideline to sideline. His experience against top-level competition means he should have an easier transition to the NFL.
Foster isn’t just a run stuffer as he also does a good job holding up in coverage. He plays with good instincts where he’s able to identify the developing routes and quickly react. His balance and overall fluidity ensures he can adjust his body.
The Lions could also look at adding more playmakers along the defensive line. Someone like Michigan State’s Malik McDowell would give them a penetrator to put alongside run stuffers like A’Shawn Robinson and Haloti Ngata.
Next: No. 12 Atlanta