Detroit Lions 2018 Draft Picks: A Look Back

Hey, Lions fans! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft picks. It's always a super interesting exercise to look back at a draft class and see how those guys have panned out, right? Especially for a team like the Lions, who were looking to build some serious momentum back then. This draft was seen as a pretty crucial one for General Manager Bob Quinn and Head Coach Matt Patricia as they were solidifying their vision for the team. They needed to find some difference-makers, some guys who could come in and make an immediate impact. We're going to dive deep into each pick, talk about the player, why they were chosen, and how their careers unfolded with the Honolulu Blue and Silver. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's break down the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft picks!

Round 1, Pick 20: Frank Ragnow, C, Arkansas

Alright guys, let's kick things off with the Lions' first big move in the 2018 NFL Draft: selecting center Frank Ragnow out of Arkansas with the 20th overall pick. Man, this was a pick that generated a lot of buzz. Ragnow was widely considered one of the best interior offensive linemen in the entire draft class, and for good reason. He was a highly decorated college player, earning All-SEC honors multiple times and bringing a reputation for being a powerful run blocker and a solid pass protector. The Lions desperately needed to bolster their offensive line, an area that had been inconsistent. Ragnow, with his football IQ, strength, and nasty attitude on the field, seemed like the perfect fit to anchor the line for years to come. The expectation was that he’d step in immediately and provide stability, something the Lions' offense had been lacking. His versatility was also a huge plus; while drafted as a center, he had the ability to play guard as well, giving the coaching staff flexibility. He was seen as a high-character guy, a leader, and someone who embodied the tough, physical style of play the new regime wanted to instill. The pressure was on for this first-round pick to deliver, and the consensus was that Ragnow had all the tools to do just that. He was the kind of player who could elevate the entire offense by creating running lanes and giving Matthew Stafford more time in the pocket. The hope was that he would be a cornerstone piece for the offensive line, a player who would be a consistent Pro Bowl-caliber talent. Looking back, this was a home run pick for the Lions, solidifying the center position for years and becoming a true leader on the offensive front. His impact was felt immediately and continued throughout his tenure.

Round 2, Pick 43: Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn

Moving on to the second round, the Lions snagged running back Kerryon Johnson from Auburn at pick number 43. Now, this was an intriguing pick. Johnson was a dynamic playmaker at Auburn, known for his elusiveness, excellent vision, and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. The Lions' running game had been a work in progress for a while, and Johnson represented a potential game-changer. He had that explosive first step and the agility to make defenders miss in open space. The hope was that he could inject some much-needed life into the Lions' ground attack, giving them a more consistent threat to run the ball effectively. He also fit the mold of a modern NFL running back, one who could contribute in both the running and passing game. His college stats were impressive, and he showed flashes of brilliance that made him an exciting prospect. The Lions were looking for a lead back, someone who could handle a significant workload and become a focal point of the offense. Johnson had the talent to be that guy. While there were some concerns about his durability due to past injuries in college, his upside was undeniable. The coaching staff envisioned him being a guy who could break tackles, gain tough yards, and also be a reliable receiver for Stafford. He was seen as a player who could provide a spark and help balance the offense. This pick signaled a commitment to improving the running game, and Johnson certainly brought an exciting skillset to the table. His time with the Lions had its ups and downs, marked by flashes of brilliance interspersed with injury challenges, but he was a significant part of the team's offensive identity during his tenure. He showed the potential that made him such a highly-regarded prospect coming out of Auburn.

Round 3, Pick 83: Tracy Walker, S, Louisiana-Lafayette

In the third round, at pick 83, the Detroit Lions selected safety Tracy Walker from Louisiana-Lafayette. This was a pick that addressed a need in the secondary, a position group that the Lions were keen to upgrade. Walker was an athletic safety with impressive speed and range, capable of covering a lot of ground. He played his college ball at a smaller school, but his physical tools and playmaking ability stood out. The Lions were looking for a safety who could provide more playmaking potential, someone who could make contested interceptions and come up strong against the run. Walker fit that profile. He had the speed to patrol the deep half of the field and the physicality to be a force near the line of scrimmage. His athleticism was undeniable, and he showed a knack for being around the ball. The coaching staff saw him as a player who could bring a new dimension to the defensive backfield, adding a ball-hawking element that had been missing. He was seen as a player with a high ceiling, someone who could develop into a true starter and a key contributor on defense. The goal was to find a safety who could be a consistent performer and help tighten up a defense that needed improvement. Walker's ability to cover a lot of ground and his physical presence made him an appealing prospect. He represented an investment in the future of the secondary, a player who could grow and mature within the system. His tenure with the Lions saw him develop into a significant contributor, showcasing his athletic ability and making impactful plays. He became a valuable piece of the defense, providing leadership and playmaking ability. This third-round selection proved to be a solid addition to the roster.

Round 4, Pick 114: Da'Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama

Moving into the fourth round, the Lions picked up defensive end Da'Shawn Hand from Alabama at pick 114. This was a really interesting selection, as Hand came from a powerhouse program in Alabama, where he played a rotational role but was highly regarded for his physical tools and potential. He was a big, strong defensive end with the ability to play both on the edge and potentially inside. The Lions were looking to add depth and talent to their defensive line, an area that always needs reinforcement in the NFL. Hand possessed a good combination of size, strength, and athleticism, making him a versatile player who could potentially contribute in multiple ways. He had the raw talent that scouts loved, and the hope was that under the Lions' coaching staff, he could refine his technique and unlock his full potential. He was seen as a developmental prospect, a player who might not have been ready to be an immediate starter but had the traits to become a solid contributor down the line. The Lions often look for players with high upside, and Hand certainly fit that description. His ability to disrupt the run and potentially generate some pass rush made him an attractive option. He came from a winning culture at Alabama, and the team hoped that would translate to the NFL. The expectation was that he would provide depth and competition on the defensive line, and potentially grow into a larger role. While his NFL career has been impacted by injuries, his selection represented the Lions' strategy of taking talented players with upside, hoping to develop them into core contributors. He showed flashes of what made him a sought-after recruit coming out of high school and a key player in a strong college program.

Round 5, Pick 177: Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon

In the fifth round, the Lions selected offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby from Oregon at pick 177. This was a pick that added depth and competition to the offensive line. Crosby was a strong college tackle who brought a physical style of play to the position. He wasn't the most polished prospect, but he possessed the grit and determination that the Lions' coaching staff often looks for. The idea behind this pick was to bring in a player who could compete for a spot, provide valuable depth, and potentially develop into a starter if given the opportunity. The offensive line is a critical unit, and having players like Crosby who can step in when needed is essential for success. He had good size and strength, and he played with a chip on his shoulder. The Lions were always looking to strengthen their offensive line, and this pick was another move in that direction. Crosby was seen as a player with a good work ethic and the willingness to learn and improve. He represented a low-risk, potentially high-reward pick, as later-round offensive linemen can often surprise and become solid contributors. His ability to play tackle was valuable, and the team hoped he could provide solid backup and push for a starting role if he developed well. He has proven to be a valuable depth piece and a player who can step in when called upon, showcasing the Lions' ability to find useful players later in the draft. His contributions, while perhaps not always flashy, were important for the team's depth and stability.

Round 5, Pick 184: Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State

Also in the fifth round, at pick 184, the Lions opted for a fullback, Nick Bawden, from San Diego State. This was a bit of a surprise pick to some, as the fullback position isn't as prominent as it once was in the NFL. However, for a team looking to establish a physical running game, a good fullback can be a valuable asset. Bawden was a tough, hard-nosed player who excelled at blocking and paving the way for running backs. He was seen as a player who could bring a physical presence to the offense and be an integral part of the run blocking scheme. The Lions, under Patricia, were emphasizing a physical brand of football, and Bawden fit that mold perfectly. He was a leader on his college team and was known for his work ethic and dedication. The selection of a fullback signals a specific offensive philosophy, one that values power and physicality at the point of attack. Bawden was expected to be a lead blocker, opening up holes for the running backs and providing extra protection for the quarterback. While he might not rack up eye-popping stats himself, his importance to the offense could be measured in the success of the running game and the protection he provided. He was seen as a player who could contribute immediately in a specialized role. His hard-nosed style and willingness to do the dirty work made him a potentially valuable addition to the offensive unit. He provided a different dimension to the offense and exemplified the team's commitment to a physical style of play. His role was crucial in establishing the run game and protecting the quarterback, showcasing the value of a traditional fullback in today's NFL.

Round 6, Pick 217: Jason Cabinda, TE, Penn State

In the sixth round, the Lions drafted tight end Jason Cabinda from Penn State at pick 217. This was another pick that aimed to add versatility and depth to the offensive side of the ball. Cabinda was a strong, physical tight end who could line up in various spots and contribute as both a blocker and a receiver. While he wasn't the most explosive receiver, he possessed reliable hands and a willingness to mix it up in the trenches. The Lions were looking for players who could do a bit of everything, and Cabinda fit that bill. He could be used as an inline blocker, an H-back, or even split out wide in certain formations. His blocking ability was particularly noted, making him a valuable asset in the run game. The hope was that he could provide solid depth behind the team's primary tight ends and also contribute on special teams. He represented a player with a good football mind and the ability to execute the game plan. The Lions often target players who are versatile and have a high football IQ, and Cabinda fit that mold. He was seen as a player who could contribute to the team's identity and provide valuable support to the offense. His ability to contribute in both the blocking and receiving aspects of the game made him a flexible option for the coaching staff. He has proven to be a valuable depth piece and a player who can fill multiple roles on offense and special teams, showcasing his versatility and toughness. His contributions highlighted the importance of reliable, versatile players in building a complete roster.

Round 7, Pick 237: Andrew Brown, DT, Virginia

Finally, in the seventh round, the Lions took defensive tackle Andrew Brown from Virginia at pick 237. This was a late-round pick, often seen as a lottery ticket or a player who could compete for a roster spot and contribute on special teams. Brown was a solid defensive tackle who showed flashes of potential during his college career. He possessed good size and strength for the position, and the Lions were looking to add depth to their defensive interior. The idea with a late-round pick like Brown is to find a player who has some raw talent and can be developed within the team's system. He was seen as a developmental prospect, someone who could potentially push for a role or provide valuable practice competition. The Lions, like many teams, use late-round picks to take swings on players with physical tools or the potential to grow. Brown represented an opportunity to add another body to the defensive line rotation and see if he could develop into something more. His selection was about adding competition and depth to the roster, with the hope that he could contribute in some capacity. While seventh-round picks often face an uphill battle to make a significant impact, they can sometimes surprise and become valuable contributors. He added depth to the defensive line and competed for a roster spot, representing the team's efforts to find hidden gems late in the draft. His journey exemplifies the challenges and opportunities faced by players selected on the final day of the draft.

Final Thoughts on the 2018 Lions Draft Class

So, there you have it, guys! The Detroit Lions' 2018 draft picks. Looking back, this was a draft class that yielded some foundational pieces, most notably Frank Ragnow, who has gone on to become one of the premier centers in the league and a true leader for the Lions. Kerryon Johnson showed flashes of brilliance but battled injuries. Tracy Walker has been a productive player in the secondary. Da'Shawn Hand and Tyrell Crosby provided depth and developmental potential. And guys like Nick Bawden, Jason Cabinda, and Andrew Brown were late-round selections aimed at adding competition, depth, and fulfilling specific roles. It's a reminder that not every pick is going to be a superstar, but building a successful team often relies on a mix of high-impact players and reliable contributors found throughout the draft. This 2018 class certainly had its hits and misses, but it laid some groundwork for the team's future, particularly on the offensive line. What are your thoughts on the Detroit Lions' 2018 draft picks? Did any of these selections surprise you? Let us know in the comments below!