There’s a growing consensus that perhaps Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry might be the safest pick in the draft, and that he could go No. 1 to the Lions. That’s quite an ascent for Curry, who coming out of high school had just one scholarship offer according to Rivals, even though a few ACC schools were recruiting him.

We took a peek at the history of LB’s going first overall and it hasn’t happened since Aundray Bruce went No. 1 in 1988 to the Falcons. The former Auburn LB was thought to be the next LT … but was mostly a bust, starting just 42 games in his 11 year career. He totaled just 32 sacks.

The Lions’ defense last year was the worst against the run, gave up over 400 yards per game, and allowed 32 points per game. The last defense to give up 30 or more points per game was the 2001 Colts.

Peter King got the impression the Lions like Matthew Stafford, but it wasn’t a lock that he was their guy yet. So now the question becomes whether or not Stafford has a Leinart or Brady Quinn-like freefall if the Lions select Curry. Stafford could go 3rd to the Chiefs … but in Scott Pioli’s draft career in New England, he never drafted a QB in the first or second round (although one could argue there was no need for one since Brady was running the show).

There’s Seattle at 4 (if you don’t think Hasselbeck’s got anything left), San Fran at 10 (Shaun Hill or Alex Smith inspire no confidence), Buffalo at 11 (unless you are enamored with Trent Edwards), and … the Jets at 17.