2011 NFL Mock Draft: The Detroit Lions Select...

With the thirteenth pick of the 2011 CSC Community Mock Draft, the Detroit Lions (represented by NorthFan) select...

Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College

Anthony Castonzo is the best offensive tackle in this years draft. The Lions biggest need is an offensive tackle. This is a perfect fit. Gosder Cherilus and Jeff Backus have been solid for the Lions over the past couple of years, but Backus is getting old. Coming into his 11th season in the NFL, he has started 160 games over his career, a surprise considering he has never been considered good enough to be a "franchise" left tackle. He is 6'5" 305 lbs., but plays a lot smaller. With a quarterback who has been as oft-injured as Matthew Stafford, the Lions desperately need to upgrade that all-important left tackle spot.

Insert Castonzo. At 6'7" 313 lbs., he is a physical monster. He benched 225 lbs. 28 times at the combine. He has long arms, 34.5", that you look for in a franchise tackle. He's quick for his size and has good technique. He will improve both the passing and rushing offense of the Lions. He was a four-year starter at Boston College, and didn't miss a single game.

The Lions have all the pieces to succeed offensively, as long as Stafford can stay healthy. Jahvid Best, Calvin Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew and Nate Burleson form a solid core of offensive players for Stafford to use and an upgrade at left tackle should guarantee that he can stay on the field long enough to make something happen. His one major downside is his strength, however, but with speed rushers like Julius Peppers and Jared Allen in the same division, his quickness and good positioning should be able to hold up.

Jim Schwartz and Martin Mayhew have done a great job drafting since taking over the Lions. Expect to see another solid draft by these guys, with Castonzo filling their biggest need early.