The Detroit Lions were big winners early on in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. With the first overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars surprised some people by selecting Georgia EDGE defender, Trayvon Walker.
That let the No. 1 prospect on many people’s draft boards, Michigan EDGE Aidan Hutchinson, fell into the Lions’ laps at the No. 2 overall pick. They wasted no time rushing that card to the stand, keeping Hutchinson home.
Hutchinson looks like he will be one of the sure-fire prospects in this year’s draft class and fits the culture that Dan Campbell is trying to build in Detroit. They are a perfect fit for each other and Hutchinson should produce for them right away.
One NFL scout that talked to NFL Analysis Network made a bold statement about the Lions’ selection. They believe Detroit is going to take a big step forward after this selection by adding what they believe to be the best player in this year’s draft.
“The Lions got the best player in the draft, no question about it. Jacksonville got a good piece in Walker, but they didn’t pick the better player. Detroit just made a huge step towards getting their franchise back on track tonight.”
There were a lot of fans that wanted the local guy in Hutchinson and they got their wish. Looking for a game changer after going 3-13-1, the Lions are getting one in the 2021 Heisman Finalist.
Last season with the Wolverines, Hutchinson had 62 total tackles, 16.5 of which were for loss, to go with 14 sacks, three passes defended, one fumble recovery and two forced fumbles. The Lions are hopeful that he brings that production to their defense for the next decade. Detroit needed a pass rusher in the worst way and they got the best one in this year’s draft class that will now be the focal point of their defense.
