Embed from Getty Images NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell informed all 32 NFL teams that the 2020 NFL draft would proceed in a fully virtual format. This is to make sure the the NFL is in compliance with current regulations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Detroit Lions who currently own the third pick in the draft are looking to trade back.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport, broke the news that Detroit has had talks with multiple teams interested in the third overall pick. This comes as no surprise that Detroit is “open for business.” The ideal is that the Lions would move back while gaining more draft picks.
The Detroit Lions currently have seven picks in the 2020 draft, including one in each of the first four rounds and two in the fifth round. With Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa having been cleared medically, quarterback needy teams began calling Detroit general manager Bob Quinn.
The Detroit Lions have been linked heavily to two defensive players, Ohio State cornerback, Jeff Okudah and Auburn’s defensive tackle, Derrick Brown. Also to a lesser degree Clemson’s Isaiah Simmons.
The defensive needy Lions could land anyone of the three who would upgrade the defense even if they traded back. The Miami Dolphins were said to have serious interest in Tagovailoa.
Bob Quinn is in good position. He could make a trade and get more draft picks and improve the Lions roster. Quinn could also choose to stand pat and draft one of the defensive players.
The guess here is that Detroit will move back. It is the right move to make. Get the defensive player at a better slot for the value pick. The Dolphins with three first round picks have the assets to pry the third pick in the draft from Detroit.
58 NFL draft prospects are going to be joining the draft virtually.
The draft runs from April 23-25, with the round schedule as follows:
Thursday, April 23: Round 1
Friday, April 24: Rounds 2-3
Saturday, April 25: Rounds 4-7
The first round Thursday, April 23 starts at 8 p.m. ET and will be shown on ESPN.
