Lions solidify offensive line
We’re pretty sure that Detroit wouldn’t have had an issue retaining former first-round pick Riley Reiff on a long-term deal. He’s proven to be more than starter-caliber throughout his career. But when the opportunity to upgrade at an important position arises, you need to do just that.
After a stellar career at Wisconsin, it was a surprise to see Rick Wagner fall to the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Most had him pegged as an early-round pick. In some good news for Baltimore, Wagner completely outplayed his draft status. In fact, he finished this past season as one of the best right tackles in the game.
New Lions RT Rick Wagner (84.5 overall #PFF grade) ranked 18th among OTs in 2016. @PFF
— Brett Whitefield (@BGWhitefield) March 8, 2017
Unfortunately for Ozzie Newsome and Co., this priced Wagner out of their reach, ultimately enabling the Pro Bowl-caliber right tackle to land in Detroit. Wagner will now act as a book end with 2016 first-round pick Taylor Decker, forming one of the best tackle tandems in the NFL.
It’s in this that the Lions made sure to fortify their protection in front of a quarterback in Matthew Stafford that is coming off a career season. Not a bad way to start the free-agent process.