Lions Making Draft Night Moves: Trade Up Rumors Swirling Around Allen Park
The draft is here and the Lions are doing what they do best: keeping us guessing until the very last second. While Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes have mastered the art of saying absolutely nothing in public, the rumor mill has been working overtime as we head into draft night.
And yes, I know what you’re thinking. Draft rumors this close to the actual event are about as reliable as a Ford transmission from the early 2000s. Teams leak what they want to leak, and keep what matters locked down tighter than Ford Field security.
The Latest Intel From Around The League
Albert Breer dropped the most recent bomb on Friday, April 24: the Lions are reportedly seeking a trade up in the second round. Because apparently sitting at our current spot and taking the best player available is too simple for this franchise.
Before that on Thursday, April 23, Jonathan Jones and Jeremy Fowler reported that Detroit has been making calls to explore trading up. The Lions are clearly feeling frisky, which could mean they have their eyes on someone specific or they’re just trying to create chaos. Both options feel very on-brand.
Meanwhile, Brad Holmes has been busy on Zoom calls. He connected with UCF EDGE Malachi Lawrence and Michigan DT Rayshawn Benny, proving that even in the modern NFL, recruiting still happens one video call at a time.
Offensive Line Still The Priority
Most of the chatter continues to center around offensive tackles, which makes sense given our glaring need to protect our franchise quarterback. Jeremy Fowler reported on Tuesday, April 21 that teams are expecting an early run on offensive linemen, which could force Detroit’s hand if they want to address the position.
Daniel Jeremiah threw Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor into the mix on April 6, suggesting he won’t get past the Lions. That was earlier in the month, but it shows where the team’s head might be at.
Interestingly, Dave Birkett noted that Georgia OT Monroe Freeling did not get a top-30 visit to Allen Park. Sometimes what doesn’t happen tells you as much as what does.
Everyone Wants To Jump The Lions
Todd McShay reported on Wednesday, April 22 that teams are actively trying to trade ahead of Detroit, which suggests other franchises think the Lions have someone special in their crosshairs. It’s either that or they’re worried about Holmes pulling another gem out of nowhere like he’s done before.
The fact that multiple sources are confirming Detroit’s interest in moving around the board tells you everything. This isn’t going to be a boring, stay-put-and-pick kind of draft night. The Lions are ready to make moves, for better or worse.
Are you ready for Holmes to trade half our draft capital for one player, or should we trust the process and stay patient? Let me know what kind of draft day chaos you’re expecting in the comments.
