According to Terrion Arnold, the Detroit Lions nearly lost out on him
The Detroit Lions were ecstatic to secure Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold in the first round of the NFL Draft. Yet, Arnold could have been off the board much earlier had things gone slightly differently. In an intriguing twist, Arnold disclosed on ‘The Next Round' that he was almost selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with their 13th overall pick. According to Arnold, the Raiders reached out post-draft to explain the decision process.
Coin Toss Decision
Arnold recounted the unusual selection method, “Actually, the Raiders coach, they called me after the Draft. They were like, ‘We had a coin toss between you and Brock Bowers, and it landed on him.' I was like, ‘Oh wow.'” This startling method of decision-making highlights the unpredictability and drama that can occur behind the scenes during the draft.
Raiders' GM's Ambiguous Response
While it's tempting to take the coin toss story at face value, it's likely a figurative expression of how close the decision was. When pressed for confirmation, Raiders GM Champ Kelly provided a vague response, “Can't confirm that at all.” This ambiguity leaves room for speculation about the Raiders' decision-making process and whether such a critical decision could hinge on something as random as a coin flip.
Detroit's Strategic Move
After learning he was not chosen by the Raiders, the Lions made their move. “After the Raiders passed, (the Lions) said, ‘Okay, we've got to get up there before Jacksonville.' They were trying to trade up to 15, 16 to get me,” Arnold explained. This proactive approach by the Lions underscores their determination to secure Arnold, who was reportedly the top defensive player on their board. The Lions eventually traded up from No. 29 to No. 24 to secure Arnold, reflecting their high valuation of his talent.
A Dream Come True
For Arnold, ending up with the Lions was serendipitous, especially considering the presence of former Alabama teammates like Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Brian Branch. “It's just one of those things where you go where you're wanted. That right there, that fit and as far as how the fans are, schemes that they run, even just being around guys like Jamo, Jahmyr, and especially Brian, it was a dream come true for me,” Arnold expressed contentment with how things turned out, despite the initial uncertainty.
TL;DR (too long didn't read)
- Near Miss with the Raiders: Terrion Arnold revealed that he was nearly selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the 13th overall pick in the NFL Draft. According to Arnold, the Raiders' decision came down to a figurative “coin toss” between him and Brock Bowers, which ultimately led to them choosing Bowers.
- Raiders' Decision-Making Questioned: The story shared by Arnold about the coin toss decision-making process raises questions about the Raiders' draft strategies. Raiders GM Champ Kelly's ambiguous response when asked about the coin toss adds to the intrigue and skepticism regarding whether such a critical decision could really hinge on a random method.
- Lions' Proactive Draft Strategy: After Arnold was passed over by the Raiders, the Detroit Lions seized the opportunity to trade up from the 29th to the 24th pick to secure him, indicating Arnold was a highly valued target on their draft board. Arnold's satisfaction with ending up on a team that actively pursued him highlights the importance of feeling wanted and fitting well within a team's culture and scheme.
Bottom Line
The story of Terrion Arnold's near-miss with the Las Vegas Raiders and eventual selection by the Detroit Lions illustrates not only the unpredictability of the NFL Draft but also the varying philosophies of team management. While the Raiders' decision-making process—whether figurative or literal—may raise eyebrows, the Lions' determined move to trade up and secure Arnold showcases a clear, targeted strategy in building their roster.
Arnold's revelation offers a rare peek into the high-stakes decisions that can define the careers of young athletes and the future of NFL franchises. Ultimately, Arnold landing with the Lions, where he feels valued and fits well into their defensive scheme, may prove to be the best outcome for all parties involved.
