2018 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions get good value in Frank Ragnow

Despite only a late first round pick at their disposal, the Detroit Lions made the most of it by drafting Arkansas’ Frank Ragnow at No. 20 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft.

More: Follow our instant grades and live reactions for every top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft

Given the amount of defensive linemen taken early in the draft, Detroit was forced to go offense when the No. 20 pick rolled around. However, the Lions did get great value with their selection of former Razorback Frank Ragnow.

Ragnow, an extremely resilient player highlighted by his consistency despite his father’s passing in his junior year, played four years at Arkansas over the course of his college career. He has been praised for his quickness and is extremely versatile, able to play either center or guard.

That versatility is especially important for a Lions team that is in desperate need for more depth along the interior of their offensive line. While he may not be an exciting pick, Ragnow will give Detroit another option at either center or guard, helping take the pressure off the line as a whole.

Should Ragnow meet expectations and start Week 1, he’ll be immediately thrown to the fire in an NFC North division that features interior defensive linemen such as Linval Joseph, Akiem Hicks, and Mike Daniels. Ragnow is no stranger to elite defensive lineman. He more than held his own in the SEC trenches, squaring off with some of great prospects including fellow first round pick Da’ron Payne.

Next: Final 7-Round 2018 NFL Mock Draft

Overall, the Lions met one of their most immediate needs early in the draft. This should allow them to target a defender in day two of the draft while plugging in other holes throughout the rest of the weekend.

Grade: B+