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Duke's Laken Tomlinson would give the Detroit Lions a long-term solution at left guard and should be able to immediately improve the team's run game.

(AP File Photo)

Leading up to the 2015 NFL draft, MLive.com writers Justin Rogers and Kyle Meinke will preview prospects who could be a fit for the Detroit Lions.

Name: Laken Tomlinson

Position: Guard

School: Duke

Height: 6-foot-3

Weight: 323 pounds

Projected round: Second

40-yard dash time: 5.33 seconds

Bench press reps: 25 reps

Key stats: A first-team All-American in 2014, the highly durable Tomlinson started all 52 games the past four seasons. After struggling to run the ball the past decade, the Blue Devils averaged 179.9 rushing yards per game the past two seasons. The team also allowed just 13 sacks in 2014, 10th best in Division 1-A.

How he fits: It's simple really. The Lions remain without a left guard. Tomlinson is one of the best guards in this draft class. Square peg, square hole.

But selecting Tomlinson wouldn't just be drafting for need. He's a gifted talent who has the physical tools to move defensive tackles in the run game and the intelligence to identify and adjust to twisting and stunting pass rushers.

You're also looking at a high-character addition to the roster. Tomlinson earned academic All-ACC honors on multiple occasions while double majoring in evolutionary anthropology and psychology. He was named to the Good Works team last year after traveling to Ethiopia on a mission trip and well-digging project in 2013.

Quotable: "I watch him a lot -- his technique and he has really good feet. I try to model my game after him." -- Tomlinson on Detroit Lions guard Larry Warford

"Tomlinson has treated defenders like a squat rep at times, but getting defenders centered and jacked will be tougher in the NFL. His lack of athleticism is a major concern and will cause problems winning initial engagements as defenders will get into him first. What Tomlinson lacks in second-level ability he makes up for in straight-ahead power and an ability to stalemate power players. His success in the NFL could be predicated on scheme and landing spot." -- Lance Zierlein, NFL.com

"Duke guard Laken Tomlinson is well-put-together, measuring in at 6'3 1/4" and 323 pounds. He's solid and very thick throughout his trunk. That size moves well when asked to pull, and he showed very good strength and anchoring skills in drills. He's a natural left guard." -- Matt Miller, Bleacher Report

by DBJoshD