We are now so close to the 2019 NFL Draft that we can smell it!
On Thursday night, the NFL Draft will kick off in Nashville, Tennessee and our Detroit Lions currently hold the No. 8 pick in the opening round.
http://gty.im/1128020428
There has been plenty of speculation as to who the Lions SHOULD select, and who they actually WILL select but I feel like I have the answer to both of those questions.
First of all, Lions GM Bob Quinn has made it clear that when evaluating players for each spot in the draft, he looks at both team need and also at who is the best player available at the time.
If the first seven picks in the draft play out how I believe they will, there will be a player left on the board at No. 8 who will not only fill the Lions’ top need (in my opinion) but will also be the best available player in terms of talent.
http://gty.im/1063048296
That player is tight end T.J. Hockenson out of Iowa.
Now, let me be clear about something. I personally would not select Hockenson at No. 8, it is what I think the Lions will do.
Hockenson is being touted as a “can’t miss tight” end who will immediately improve both the passing game and running game of whichever team he gets drafted by.
I’d prefer Quinn look to add a defender in the first round and then grab a tight end who is more of a vertical threat in the 2nd or 3rd round but I have a strong feeling that Hockenson will be the pick on Thursday night.
Nation, what do you think the Lions will do when they are on the clock at No. 8?