Now that the 2023 NFL Draft is over, this city of Detroit gears up the 2024 Draft that will be host here in Detroit, but before we discuss next years draft, let’s focus on this one. After Lions GM Brad Holmes made some questionable moves during the first round of the draft, trading the no. 6 overall pick for the no.12 pick, ultimately taking Jahmyr Gibbs at 12, fans were skeptical of how the remainder of the draft would pan out. As the Lions aim to take the next step, they added some instant impact players as well as some niche role prospects.
As mentioned earlier, the Lions drafted Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs and Iowa linebacker Jack Campbell with the no. 12 and no. 18 picks in the draft. There was a flurry of interest in Gibbs before he was chosen – the Atlanta Falcons ultimately chose Bijan Robinson of Texas eighth overall, and linebacker Jack Campbell represents the sort of 249-pound run-stopping sledgehammer that has been on the verge of extinction for many years. The Lions also drafted Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta early in the second round who will add depth at the tight end position after the team traded away former Iowa tight end TJ Hockenson last season. With the 45th overall pick, the Lions selected Alabama defensive back Brian Branch, who many considered to be a first-round talent. Following that, the team selected Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker with the 68th pick. Hooker could have been a first-round pick if he wasn’t already older than many NFL starters (he turned 25 in January) and if he hadn’t suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear in November.
End the end, the team came away with several potential starters and a possible franchise quarterback. They just did so in an unusual order. The Lions are still favored to win the NFC North and former Lions quarterback turned ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky believes that the Lions can even be NFC title contenders. Most experts are giving the Lions a B- for their overall draft grade not too bad right? Lions fans, what grade who you give them?