Detroit Lions 7-round 2020 NFL mock draft: Stockpiling talent

The Detroit Lions made a significant investment into offensive lineman Halapoulivaati Vaitai in NFL free agency, but they also lost starting right tackle Ricky Wagner to the Green Bay Packers. The Lions signed Vaitai to a five-year, $50 million contract so it may seem like a one-for-one swap for the two players. However, Vaitai has shown the ability to play both tackle and guard, so he could kick inside if needed.

The Lions need some offensive line help, but the versatility of Vaitai allows them to attack their offensive line need in a variety of ways. Here, the Lions invest a significant pick in Lucas Niang, a big and athletic offensive tackle out of TCU.

Niang has everything that you would want out of an offensive tackle. He has long arms, quick feet and is powerful at the point of attack. He moves well and shows strong hand usage in pass protection. He also uses his combination of quickness and power well as a run blocker. Niang can take care of all first-level defenders and can get out in space and take care of defenders at the second level as well. Simply put, This guy can do it all.

The biggest issue with Niang is health. He dealt with a torn hip labrum throughout the entire 2019 season. It hurt his play on the field and cost him the last half of his senior season. Niang is an extremely talented offensive lineman, but if this hip injury lingers, it will be a major issue going forward.

That being said, Niang’s talent and upside is worth the risk in this range. He could come in and be an immediate asset for this team, taking over for Wagner as the starting right tackle.