Embed from Getty Images The Detroit Lions need help across the board. Tight End, Wide Receiver, Guard, Cornerback, Safety, Defensive Edge Rusher. The Lions pick in the first round at #8 where will the team go?
There is need. There is also the best player available. In recent years Lions general manager Bob Quinn has gone down both avenues. When the need is many there really is no wrong way to go about drafting.
Here is my big-board for the Lions at #8. In the order that I view the value of the pick. Agree or disagree. It should be noted this list is before free agency. So it is possible the Lions fill a need before the draft.
- Tight End, T.J. Hockenson Iowa Hawkeyes, he averaged 51.5 snaps/game. At 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds Hockenson is ideal size for the NFL. running the 40 in 4.5 the big man can move. He is a dynamic pass catcher. T.J. is an excellent blocker on the line or downfield. Making him the top choice for the Lions who desperately need a tight end.
2. Defensive Edge Rusher, Clelin Ferrell, Clemson Tigers, One of the nations best at getting into the backfield rushing the passer and shutting down the rushing game. What appeals teams and should jump out at the Detroit Lions is Ferrell can play with no hands on the ground or one hand on the ground. Meaning he can play either the 3-4 or 4-3 defense with no issues. While Clelin lack the speed and strength that Nick Bosa and Josh Allen have, his overall strength stands out as he is stronger than his draft hopefuls.
3. Ed Oliver, Defensive Edge Rusher, Houston Cougars, The 6-foot-2, 290-pound playmaker flashed big-time potential. He shows a great first-step quickness, lateral movement skills, explosive strength and hustle for a pass-rushing defensive tackle playing as a one-technique. One of the top defensive prospects in college football makes Oliver a player of interest for the Detroit Lions.
While there is no telling what the Lions big-board looks like. It is safe to say that one of these p[layers lands in Motown. Any one of the three will be able to step in and help out immediately.
