2023 NFL Draft: Analysis of Detroit Lions Picks

The Detroit Lions made several notable selections in the 2023 NFL draft, which concluded in Kansas City, Missouri. Let’s take a closer look at each of their picks and analyze their impact on the team’s depth chart.

First Round, Pick 12 Overall: Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama

In the first round, with the 12th overall pick, the Lions surprised many by selecting running back Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama.

This move bolstered the team’s backfield, which already features D’Andre Swift and David Montgomery.

While it’s unlikely that Gibbs will start right away, he brings a versatile skill set as a dual-threat back.

With over 2,000 rushing yards and 1,200 receiving yards in college, the Lions value his playmaking ability. Gibbs will likely see playing time as a rotational player alongside Swift and Montgomery.

The selection of Gibbs serves two purposes for the Lions. Firstly, it provides depth in the backfield due to Swift’s history of injuries.

With Swift’s durability concerns, Gibbs can step in if Swift misses any games.

Secondly, Gibbs adds value in the passing game, which is crucial considering wide receiver Jameson Williams’ suspension for the first six games of the 2023 season due to violating the NFL’s gambling policy.

Round 2 Pick 18 Overall: Jack Campbell, Iowa

In the same round, with the 18th overall pick, the Lions addressed their defensive needs by selecting linebacker Jack Campbell from Iowa.

The Lions’ run defense was a weakness last season, allowing 5.22 yards per carry, the third-worst in the league.

Campbell, a unanimous All-American and the winner of the 2022 Butkus Award brings his size and impressive production to bolster the defense.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and 249 pounds, he recorded nearly 300 tackles during his career at Iowa.

Campbell’s selection aligns with the Lions’ cultural fit, as he is a “Detroit guy” and a captain during his time in college.

The team appreciates his athleticism, which became increasingly evident upon further evaluation.

Campbell’s presence should significantly improve the Lions’ run defense and contribute to the overall defensive improvement.

Round 2, Pick 34 Overal: Sam LaPorta, Iowa

In the second round, with the 34th overall pick, the Lions continued to address their needs by selecting tight end Sam LaPorta from Iowa.

LaPorta becomes a key addition to the team’s tight end group, which lacked a clear-cut starter after trading away T.J. Hockenson.

As Iowa’s all-time leader in receptions for a tight end, LaPorta brings a proven track record and the potential to emerge as the Lions’ primary threat at the position.

Given the lack of a clear starter, LaPorta has a good chance to start as a rookie.

The Lions’ offense heavily relies on the tight end position, evident by setting a franchise record for most combined receiving touchdowns from tight ends in a single season.

With 111 catches in his final two seasons at Iowa, LaPorta possesses the skills to thrive in the Lions’ offensive system.

Round 2 Pick 45 Overall: Brian Branch, Alabama

The Lions traded up in the second round, moving three spots to select safety Brian Branch from Alabama with the 45th overall pick.

Branch is expected to contribute immediately to the team’s reworked secondary. As a sure tackler, he addresses a significant issue the Lions faced last season.

Branch’s exceptional tackling ability, converting 98% of his tackle attempts in 2022, ranked first among all FBS defensive backs.

With the Lions’ defense allowing the most plays of 20-plus yards in the NFL last season, Branch’s addition should provide much-needed stability.

Branch’s selection holds additional significance, as he shares ties with former Lions great Calvin Johnson, having attended the same high school.

With experience playing in a hybrid safety/cornerback role at Alabama, Branch could potentially solve the Lions’ slot cornerback issues.

Last season, the slot cornerback position allowed the most touchdowns without recording any interceptions in the league.

Given his extensive slot experience, Branch brings valuable versatility to the Lions’ secondary.

Round 2, Pick 68 Overall: Hendon Hooker, Tennessee.

In the second round, with the 68th overall pick, the Lions selected quarterback Hendon Hooker from Tennessee.

Although Jared Goff currently holds the starting role, the Lions are preparing for the future by drafting Hooker.

Despite recovering from an ACL injury, Hooker showcased his talents at Tennessee, completing nearly 70% of his passes for over 3,000 yards, 27 touchdowns, and two interceptions in 11 games last season.

Hooker’s addition provides depth and security at the quarterback position, while Goff remains the primary starter.

Round 3, Pick 96 Overall: Brodric Martin, Western Kentucky

Moving to the third round, with the 96th overall pick, the Lions chose defensive tackle Brodric Martin from Western Kentucky.

Although Martin is considered raw, the Lions are enthusiastic about his potential. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 337 pounds, Martin brings size, athleticism, and a relentless pursuit of the ball.

Despite not being invited to the NFL Combine, Martin impressed the Lions during the 2023 East-West Shrine Bowl, prompting further interest.

The team sees him as a player with significant upside and expects him to develop into a valuable asset on the defensive line.

Round 5, Pick 152 Overall: Colby Sorsdal, William & Mary

In the fifth round, with the 152nd overall pick, the Lions added depth to their offensive line by selecting tackle Colby Sorsdal from William & Mary.

Sorsdal brings a formidable presence at 6-foot-6 and 301 pounds, with 46 career starts in college. His strength lies in run-blocking, and he did not allow any sacks in his final season.

The Lions’ commitment to protecting Goff is evident with this selection, as Sorsdal’s ability to excel in run-blocking will further enhance the team’s ground game.

Round 7, Pick 219 Overall: Antoine Green from North Carolina

Finally, in the seventh round, with the 219th overall pick, the Lions chose wide receiver Antoine Green from North Carolina.

Green’s selection provides depth to the receiving corps, which suffered recent setbacks due to suspensions and the release of Quintez Cephus.

Green brings a deep vertical threat to the team, boasting an average of 17.1 air yards per target in his final season, the fourth-highest among FBS receivers.

His addition will help stretch the field until the return of Jameson Williams.

In summary, the Lions made significant moves to address both offensive and defensive needs in the 2023 NFL draft.

With the additions of Gibbs, Campbell, LaPorta, Branch, Hooker, Martin, Sorsdal, and Green, the Lions aim to strengthen their roster and improve their overall performance in the upcoming season.

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