Lions Draft 2022

Hutchinson doesn’t have to move far from Ann Arbor, going back home to the Detroit metro area. The Lions can be thrilled about the ferocious Wolverine slipping to be a cornerstone pass rusher for their 4-3 under Aaron Glenn, for which he’s an ideal fit. He is tough and relentless and straight-up productive. Hutchinson can remain dominant in the NFL and also is an asset against the run. He is the best player in this draft class.

Grade: A

The Lions made an intradivision trade to make sure they got in on the run for the three best wide receivers in the draft from consecutive picks. Given the position was so deep, they get knocked a little for giving up a considerable haul of picks to the rival Vikings and also not thinking about the first crack at quarterback. But when breaking down the player, the Lions could afford to be patient with Williams, a flat-out big playmaker, while he recovers from his knee injury. He’s a terrific skill complement for Amon-Ra St. Brown, D’Andre Swift and T.J. Hockenson. Now they need a QB upgrade behind a top line to get the ball to Williams downfield.

Grade: B+

(from MIN via LAR)

The Lions make a questionable pick of a Day 3 prospect but at least he makes sense to support No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson in upgrading the edge. Paschal is a reliable rock of a pass rusher with some sturdiness against the run who could work to be more explosive.

Grade: C

(from MIN via WAS)

The Lions needed some safety and nickel depth, but Joseph doesn’t offer much vs. the run with his strength lying in making plays in coverage.

Grade: C

(from PHI via JAX via SEA)

(from PHI via NO)