The Detroit Lions just wrapped up an eventful NFL Draft, hoping to continue finding game-changing players in the process as they’ve done to great extent in recent years. General manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell are two of the best in the business, and there’s reason to believe they’ve struck gold again.
Time will tell if Detroit has unearthed some future stars in the vein of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, Frank Ragnow, or Jahmyr Gibbs, to name a few. That said, one pick in particular jumps off the board as someone who screams “future starter for the Lions.”
This is an organization built at least partially around a stellar offensive line. After losing starting right guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency, they’ve now found someone who could compete for a spot on the line sooner than later.
Lions Draft Potential Future Starter in 5th Round OL Miles Frazier
With the 171st pick, the Lions took versatile LSU lineman Miles Frazier. At six-foot-six and 317 pounds, he’s a hulking player yet nimble on his feet and quick out of his blocks. He was a four-year starter, playing every position on the line except center during his career.
While Frazier was primarily a right guard, he started 11 games at left tackle, nine at left guard and two at right tackle. That level of versatility is valuable, and the fact that Frazier has so much starting experience will help ease the developmental curve as well.
ESPN had Frazier ranked as the 90th prospect in the class, while Dane Brugler of The Athletic put Frazier 81st. To draft a player that highly rated at No. 171 is terrific value, and the Lions may have just landed their next great lineman prospect. Unlike most other positions, the NFL is filled with examples of late-round players quickly making an impact. The Kansas City Chiefs found Pro Bowler Trey Smith in the sixth round, and he’s now the highest-paid guard on an annual basis.
Fortunately for Frazier, he’ll have time to develop. The Lions have options in guys like Christia Mahogany, but there will still be a chance for Frazier to get on the field quickly thanks to his versatility.
It was a great pick for Detroit, and fans should get used to seeing him on the field sooner than later.