Detroit Lions did their part on Sunday, losing to the Minnesota Vikings and ensuring they would have a choice in the top 10 in the NFL’s 2021 Draft. However, they received no help from any of the teams above the recruiting order. This means that with the end of the regular season, Lions are stuck with the seventh overall choice for the April draft.
It will be the third consecutive year that Lions end the season with a choice from the top 10. Detroit had no choices in the top 10 in the draft in consecutive seasons from 2002 to 2007, when it had six consecutive seasons out of the top 10 choices that resulted in players like Roy Williams, Mike Williams, Ernie Sims and Calvin Johnson, among others.
Although Lions are unlikely to have a chance at one of the defender’s greatest talents – unless they switch – the seventh overall choice has produced some talent in recent drafts. Take a look:
2020: DT Derrick Brown
2019: LB Josh Allen
2018: QB Josh Allen
2017: WR Mike Williams
2016: DE Deestest Buckner
2015: WR Kevin White
2014: WR Mike Evans
2013: G Jonathan Cooper
2012: s Mark Barron
2011: DE Aldon Smith
2010: CB Joe Haden
Here is a look at the draft order that has been defined so far for the NFL’s 2021 Draft:
- Jagaurs
- Jets
-
Texans (owned by Dolphins)
- Falcons
- Bengals
- Eagles
- Lions
- Panthers
- Broncos
- Cowboys
- Giants
- 49ers
- Chargers
- Vikings
- Patriots
- Cardinals
- Raiders
- Dolphins