Detroit Lions need to keep their poker face to the last minute
By Robert Jones
The Lions have to be patient with their top pick
I was on the phone with a friend the other day when he said that he was afraid the Lions would trade down from the third overall pick and miss out on an impact player. I was surprised to hear that since there are numerous scenarios that could play out in the draft, including the possibility of trading down, all of which would only improve the Lions. If done properly.
Among the draft experts, there are considered to be three top players available; LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, Ohio State defensive end Chase Young, and Alabama signal-caller Tua Tagovailoa. If the Lions want the top value, they would select whichever one of those three is available when Detroit is on the clock.
If not, the next tier of players includes Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah, Clemson linebacker/do-everything Isaiah Simmons, and Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown. If the Lions traded back with either the Miami Dolphins or Los Angeles Chargers, then they would still have one of those impact players available which would also fit a need.
And in addition to getting a very good player that fits a need the Lions would also gain another second-round pick or if the Dolphins are really desperate, perhaps another first-round selection.
That is when the scenario of Detroit trading back becomes a prime opportunity for the Lions to add additional talent to improve themselves. Additional talent that should also contribute almost immediately.
The only downside is if the picks don’t pan out.
So the opportunities for the Lions to make a splash in the draft are certainly present and there are multiple ways they can make that splash. If they can keep their heads about themselves and make the most of whatever scenario happens.
The key though is patience. One way or another, while Bob Quinn has to be working the phones for trade back offers, he has to be patient and not jump at any offer too soon. Because if Quinn does, then there is still a chance the Lions will get burned.