When the Detroit Lions are on the clock with the second pick of the 2022 NFL draft, they can do almost anything, making them one of the more intriguing teams to watch early on.
It’s difficult to project their pick because they have needs across the roster. But if the Lions choose a cornerback, there could be some chaos atop the draft, according to ESPN’s Jordan Reid and Matt Miller.
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If the Lions decide to upgrade their defensive backfield instead of their defensive front, Reid wrote, they could start a ripple effect near the top of the draft that could lead to chaos down the line.
“The Lions lack high-end front-seven talent, but they could choose to beef up the best part of their defense with (cornerback Ahmad ‘Sauce’) Gardner,” Reid wrote in the April 15 piece. “That would ensure that two of the top edge rushers — (Aidan) Hutchinson, (Travon) Walker and (Kayvon) Thibodeaux — are on the board for Houston at No. 3.”
Many pundits’ mock drafts project the Lions to add to their defensive line, but some, including that of ESPN’s Mel Kiper, project the team to select a defensive back such as Gardner. If that happens, chaos could ensue.
Lions Hosted Productive Gardner on Pre-Draft Visit
It seems Detroit already has taken a close look at Gardner, who was expected to visit the Lions a few weeks ago.
A standout at the University of Cincinnati, Gardner put up 99 tackles and nine interceptions and showed a knack for not only intercepting the ball, but for being in the right place at the right time. He also had 16 passes defended and scored two touchdowns in his career. Here’s a look at some of the highlights:
Drafting Gardner would be an intriguing move because it would go against some conventional wisdom. There could be precedent for the move because the Lions seemingly already have a connection with Gardner, who is a Detroit native.
Why Lions Could Draft Defensive Back in 2022
Do the Lions need to take a cornerback with such a high pick?
That point is debatable, but the team could certainly use some depth at the position. In 2021, the team got production from a pair of undrafted free agents, AJ Parker and Jerry Jacobs. In addition to those players, the Lions watched as Amani Oruwariye became a star this season, and the team still has Jeff Okudah on the roster, though he will be coming off injury in 2022. Additionally, the team will have Ifeatu Melifonwu looking to take the next step after his rookie year. Add it all up and there appears to be reason to feel positive about the future of the group.
The Lions could draft or sign underrated players to fill in at both spots. In safety DeShon Elliott and cornerback Mike Hughes, whom they signed last month, they could have found another players to add for depth.
If the Lions do select a defensive back, which many pundits do not expect but is still a seemingly realistic possibility, the effect of that selection could prove chaotic in the first round.
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