Offensive Tackle, Jason Fox, was drafted by the Lions in the fourth round as a project. Today that project can truly start as he was signed to a 3 year contract. Fox was the first of the Lions draft picks to sign this season.
Keep in mind that Fox was drafted as a project player who the Lions believe can learn to play both left and right tackle on the offensive line. Contrary to the high hopes of many Lions fans, he was not drafted to replace Jeff Backus at left tackle. At least not until Backus retires.
At 6'7" and 303 pounds, Fox is a monster of a man. He has the size and the athleticism to develop into a good tackle. He is however, likely a year or two away from being an every day starter. He will spell Backus at times and even play some at right tackle behind Cherilus and Jansen. Jeff Backus will have this year to play with a decent guard in Rob Sims next to him to prove the horrible play at guard has held him back in past years. In another year or two though, Backus will likely be ready to retire and hopefully Fox will be ready to take over the starting duties by then. If Fox is ready sooner, he will play sooner, but I would not expect that to happen.
One thing I do like however is his size. Behind a lineman with his size, it will be harder for defensive players to keep an eye on the Lions running backs. A running back with Jahvid Best's speed can take advantage of that. Then again, it can also make it harder for Stafford to see past him to find open receivers.
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