In the aftermath of the 2024 NFL draft, the consensus across the league is that the Detroit Lions made some smart moves. Lions General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell received high marks for their strategic approach in addressing the team’s weaknesses and targeting players who fit their needs. Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated even gave the Lions an “A” grade for their draft selections, reflecting the positive reception of their choices.
The draft got off to an exciting start for the Lions in the first round, as they made a bold move by trading their third-round pick to the Dallas Cowboys to move up five spots. With the 24th overall pick, Detroit selected corner Terrion Arnold from the University of Alabama.
Arnold, ranked as the second-best cornerback in the draft, brings a lot to the table with his combination of physicality, speed, and field awareness. His performance at Alabama, where he recorded 63 tackles and five interceptions in his All-American season, showcased his skills as a top-tier defensive back.
A standout from Tallahassee, Florida, Arnold transitioned from playing wide receiver and safety to becoming a star cornerback for the Crimson Tide. His potential to compete for a starting role with fellow rookie Ennis Rakestraw will add depth to the Lions’ secondary, which also includes veteran additions Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson.
In the second round, the Lions added Rakestraw from the University of Missouri, solidifying their defense with his impressive skill set. While Rakestraw has a history of college injuries, including a torn ACL and core muscle surgery, his abilities in man-to-man coverage and pass breakup make him a valuable asset for Detroit.
Moving on to the fourth round, the Lions selected offensive tackle Giovanni Manu from the University of British Columbia with the 126th pick. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 352 pounds, Manu brings massive size and physical strength to the Lions’ offensive line, providing a boost to the team’s ground game.
Overall, the Lions’ draft selections have been met with optimism and high expectations for the upcoming season. With promising additions like Arnold, Rakestraw, and Manu, Detroit appears to be on the right track towards strengthening their roster and competing at a higher level in the NFL.
