On Friday, the Detroit Lions selected former Iowa Hawkeyes tackle Riley Reiff with the 23rd overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft. Reiff is the 18th-rated prospect in the draft and the third-ranked offensive tackle, according to Mocking The Draft's rankings.
Here's what Mocking the Draft had to say about Reiff prior to the draft:
Reiff lacks great balance and leverage which really impacts his ability to anchor and create a push. In pass protection, he takes long unbalanced steps impacting his ability to change direction and mirror. He is able to generate an average push off the line but that is because of his tenacity and strong initial jolt.
Overall, Reiff needs to make adjustments in order to be considered a top tackle prospect in the 2012 NFL draft. In my opinion, he would be a liability on the left side as speed rushers will easily create pressure. I also feel he will struggle at guard because he doesn't have a natural bend limiting his leverage.
For more information about Riler Reiff and the Iowa Hawkeyes, please visit Black Heart Gold Pants.. For lots more on the 2012 NFL draft, please visit Mocking the Draft. You can learn more about Reiff by watching the video below.