Lions “Strongly” Considering Moving OT Riley Reiff to Guard?

Ian Rapoport tweets that the Lions are “strongly” considering switching Riley Reiff from tackle to guard this next season.

Detroit drafted Reiff with the No. 23 overall pick in last year’s draft. In his rookie season, Reiff actually graded out above average offensive tackle by Pro Football Focus’ ratings.

Reiff was especially effective as a run-blocker and given his short arms, he may be better suited to be an interior offensive lineman. This concern was brought up during the draft process last year.

The Lions obviously didn’t plan to move him inside as the consensus top rated guard in the 2012 draft class was David DeCastro, who was taken one pick after Detroit selected Reiff.

This could be an indication that they’re prepared to either re-sign RT Gosder Cherilus or target another option in free agency. Detroit could always go with the best available player at No. 5 overall this year and there’s a good chance that one of Luke Joeckel or Eric Fisher will be available to them.