A year ago, one of the common comments made by draft analysts about the Detroit Lions was that they had to select an offensive tackle in the first round. While some of the analysts noted that the move would be to build for the future on the offensive line, it seemed like the majority were of the opinion that the Lions (specifically Jeff Backus) couldn't protect Matthew Stafford.
While the Lions could use an upgrade or two on the offensive line, it seems unlikely that any drastic changes will be made to the starting five for next season. Even so, with guys like Backus and Dominic Raiola not getting any younger, the Lions do have to start preparing for the future, and SB Nation's latest 2012 NFL mock draft has them doing just that by selecting Iowa State offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele with the 23rd pick.
The Lions have some age on their offensive line that they need to start accounting for. Osemele can help on the inside, or he can step in for Jeff Backus, a 34-year old free agent. They have the offensive talent at the skill positions. Now, it's time to make a championship line.
For those wondering, this mock draft has Stanford offensive guard David DeCastro going ninth to the Dolphins, Stanford offensive tackle Jonathan Martin going 22nd to the Rams (via a trade) and Wisconsin center Peter Konz going 29th to the Ravens.