As had been anticipated the Detroit Lions used the 23rd overall pick of the 2012 NFL Draft on Thursday to bolster their offensive line. The Lions did not, however, expect to find Riley Reiff of Iowa there at No. 23. The Lions selected the left offensive tackle to help protect franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford.

The selection of Reiff leaves Stanford offensive tackle Jonathan Martin, a possible selection for the New York Giants, on the board.

The Lions had also been thought to be considering a cornerback, but Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick was lo longer available. Thus, the Lions do the smart thing and try to protect their biggest asset.

See Pride of Detroit for reaction to the pick. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation New York's StoryStream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.