For the last month or so, most of the mock drafts out there have had the Lions picking Wisconsin offensive lineman Joe Thomas. Thomas seemed like a guy that would be a solid pick, but many were wondering if he would be the quality of a #2 selection with others out there that may have more talent. After offensive linemen worked out at the combine this weekend, anyone that was against Detroit drafting Thomas may have to rethink that mindset as he impressed everyone.
Thomas went through the drills and made his mark. He ran a 4.92 in the 40-yard dash, which was good enough for third quickest among all offensive linemen. On top of that, he was second best in a couple of the other categories.
This just solidifies that Thomas would be a great selection for the Lions at the #2 pick if Detroit chooses to go down that route. If that does happen, then Thomas would move to right tackle, keeping Jeff Backus where he currently is at LT.
During yesterday's workouts that involved quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, numerous players were creating a buzz of their own. In the 40-yard dash department, top WR Calvin Johnson ran a 4.35 after opting to run it instead of skipping out on it. He is definitely making a name for himself and will undoubtedly be an impact player someday. Running back Adrian Peterson ran a 4.4 in the 40-yard dash, suggesting that the injuries don't affect his speed. I really think that Peterson could slip into Detroit's mind as a potential draft pick only if one thing happens. That one thing would be a setback in Kevin Jones's rehabilitation, which is not what anyone wants to happen.
The combine wraps up today and tomorrow. The next scouting tool to come up will be "Pro Day," where scouts travel to college campuses of draft entrants to get an up-close look at possible selections.