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NFL First Round Mock Draft, Seahawks get defensive

By Dan Viens

Nov 21, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Nathan Peterman (4) runs with the ball as Louisville Cardinals defensive end Sheldon Rankins (98) defends during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Nathan Peterman (4) runs with the ball as Louisville Cardinals defensive end Sheldon Rankins (98) defends during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Pick #16: Detroit Lions – Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama

Without a bonafide WR #1 prospect available in this spot to possibly replace the retiring Calvin Johnson, the Lions look to fortify the defensive side of the ball, they could use a starting-caliber corner back but after a run on CB’s just ahead of them, they turn to Ragland to solidify the middle of their linebacker unit.

Ragland was a tackling machine for the Crimson Tide, racking up 220 during his four year career. His pure athleticism doesn’t jump off the tape at you, but his technique and productiveness do. He’s outstanding at taking on blockers, shedding them while keeping his head up and his eyes on the ball.

And once he’s taken care of the blocker he’s an aggressive, punishing tackler. He may struggle a bit in coverage, but otherwise has the overall skill-set and experience to immediately assume play-calling duties as the Lions new inside backer.

Next: On the clock: Atlanta

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