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Lions add offensive anchor in Taylor Decker

Norm Hall / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Detroit Lions have selected offensive tackle Taylor Decker out of Ohio State with the 16th pick of the 2016 NFL Draft on Thursday.

The 2015 Big Ten lineman of the year instantly bolsters a Lions unit that allowed the 10th-most sacks in 2015, and should also immediately improve the league's worst run game.

During his time with Ohio State, Decker captured the 2014 national championship, and was a key member of the nation's fifth-ranked rushing attack.

Taylor Decker Bio

Position: OT
School: Ohio State
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-8
Weight: 315 lbs.
Age: 21

Strengths

  • Possesses excellent height and core strength for the position.
  • Long arms and heavy hands allow him to latch onto and control defenders at the point of contact.
  • Durable. Started every game for the Buckeyes over the past three seasons at both left and right tackle.
  • Excels at run blocking. Was part of one of the most dominant rushing attacks in the nation, averaging 245.2 yards per game in 2015.

Weaknesses

  • Inconsistent knee bend and has a tendency to play too upright at the second level.
  • Lacks elite foot speed and athleticism.
  • Displays inconsistent snap anticipation and poor timing getting out of his stance.

Combine Results

Event Result
40-yd Dash 5.23 sec
Bench Press 20 reps
Vertical Jump N/A
Broad Jump 101 inches
3-Cone Drill 7.70 sec
20-yd Shuttle 4.76 sec

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