The Lions waited until Day 3, but eventually fortified their offensive line. They drafted Boston College guard Christian Mahogany with their final pick of the draft, No. 210 overall, after trading up for massive offensive tackle Giovanni Manu in the fourth round.
Mahogany, 6'3, 315 pounds, was a captain and first-team All-ACC selection last season in 12 starts at right guard for the Eagles. He was projected to go in the fourth round, so he represents good value for the Lions in the sixth. His athletic score at the combine ranked fifth among guards.
"I was shocked," said Lions GM Brad Holmes. "I didn't think he would still be there at that point."
Known more for his run-blocking than pass-protecting, Mahogany is described by NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein as a "downhill mauler ... who needs to play for a team that values the big power players and allows them to do what they do best in the run game."
"He fits how we want to play," said Holmes. "He’s tough, he's physical. He’s got some dirtbag in him. He’s one of those tough Jersey kids who doesn’t take a lot of crap."
Asked about playing like a 'dirtbag,' Mahogany said, "It's something I pride myself on. I’m glad Mr. Holmes and Coach Campbell saw it."
That sounds like a good fit in Detroit, where the Lions boast a powerful rushing attack behind one of the best offensive lines in the game.