Patriots Guard Joe Thuney Should Be Coveted by Lions

Lions could look to bring in guard Joe Thuney when the free-agency period begins in March

New England Patriots guard Joe Thuney is widely considered the best interior lineman that will be available this March when teams are able to sign players from other rosters.

It is easy to understand why he will be a coveted free agent. 

Thuney -- standing at 6-foot-5, 308 pounds -- excels in several key areas, including run blocking and pass protection. 

Detroit struggled mightily to consistently establish the run last season, despite repeated efforts to control games via the rushing attack.

Last season, there were three linemen that played over 600 snaps and did not get flagged for a single penalty -- Thuney was one of them. 

Last season, Detroit signed defensive end Trey Flowers to a five-year, $90 million contract that included $56 million in guaranteed money.

Thuney was a third-round selection out of N.C. State, and has started every single game since his rookie season in 2016. 

Retired lineman T.J. Lang has recommended that Detroit aggressively pursue Thuney this offseason. 

"If I’m the Lions, I’m targeting (Chris) Jones and Thuney very aggressively," Lang tweeted Tuesday.

If I’m the Lions I’m targeting Jones and Thuney very aggressively. https://t.co/OhtvzdxgWR

— Teej. (@TJLang70) February 24, 2020

In his first four seasons, Thuney proved to be a reliable and productive member of New England's offensive line. 

Pro Football Focus graded him a 77.4 mark in 2019.  

In terms of what Thuney will get on the open market, it will likely be in the neighborhood of a four-year, $35 million deal.

All things considered, it would make sense for the Lions to sign Thuney this offseason. 

Related

Quinn & Patricia to Speak at NFL Combine Tuesday

Why CB Jeff Okudah's Combine Performance is Highly Relevant to Lions

NFL Players Have Been Openly Recruiting CB Darius Slay

Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rushers