Detroit, Michigan (WNEM) We’re just one day away from the NFL draft in downtown Detroit, and this event has been critical to the Lions’ resurgence.
In true Detroit tradition, the franchise has chosen players who fit its tough mentality.
“We don’t really get anchored in positions or windows. It’s only one draft per year. There’s a lot of work involved, so here’s our recipe. The Detroit Lions’ general manager, Brad Holmes, stated, “We just look for guys that we’re convinced are the right fit for us.”
Over the last three rounds, the Lions have done exactly that, drafting players like as Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Aidan Hutchinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs. Detroit recognizes the difference maker and uses the same grit to ensure they are wearing Honolulu blue.
“If that’s the player we want, we’ll just go grab him. But there are a lot of boxes to check. We mentioned at the end of the season that not everyone can play here, therefore that person needs to be recognized. So, ‘OK, he’s checked all the proper boxes; he’s the right choice,'” Holmes explained.
The Lions presently have the 29th overall pick, and if they draft there, it will mark the team’s first selection in the first round since 1936. However, this does not diminish the importance of the decision.
“You’re just kind of looking at a different level of player,” Holmes went on to say. “I don’t want to say it’s any less pressure because you have to get every single pick perfect; at least that’s the standard we set for ourselves. Whether we’re at 29, seven, six, two, or any combination of the above. So, we essentially follow the same technique,” Holmes explained.
What will change is the location of the draft, which will be held in Detroit for the first time ever. This will be the 89th edition of the event, and organizers expect approximately 400,000 people to take to the streets.
“I’m quite excited that the draft will take place in Detroit. I actually am. It’s just another opportunity for our franchise, our community, and the rest of the globe to flock to downtown Detroit,” Holmes explained. “We have many significant NFL areas within commuting distance, so I expect it to be rather crowded. I’m excited for the local businesses, so I believe it’ll be quite exciting.”
