In 2018, the Detroit Lions faced a crucial turning point as they approached the NFL Draft with the goal of addressing urgent roster gaps. This draft class became a focal point for rebuilding a struggling franchise and shaping the trajectory of the franchise for years.
The selections made that year reflected a blend of developmental potential, positional need, and long-term vision. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 2018 Detroit Lions draft picks, organized to highlight key players, round-by-round decisions, and their projected impact.
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8 | Jeff Okudah | CB | Ohio State |
| 2 | 41 | Taylor Decker | OT | Ohio State |
| 3 | 73 | Jarrad Davis | LB | Florida |
| 4 | 115 | Jake Burt | TE | Boston College |
| 6 | 179 | Troy Fumagalli | TE | Wisconsin |
First Round Impact: Selecting Jeff Okudah
Why Okudah Mattered Immediately
The Lions selected Jeff Okudah with the eighth overall pick, aiming to stabilize a shaky secondary. As a talented cornerback from Ohio State, he brought both press-man coverage skills and ball-hawking ability.
His athletic traits and instinctive reactions projected as high-upside solutions to a pressing need at the corner position.
Offensive Line Investment: The Taylor Decker Decision
Building a Strong Interior Offensive Line
With the 41st overall pick, Detroit chose Taylor Decker, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, to address a critical weakness on the offensive line. Decker offered versatility, helping protect the quarterback and opening lanes for the running game.
This selection signaled a commitment to long-term stability at a position that had hindered the team’s playoff chances in recent seasons.
Mid-Round Value: Jarrad Davis and Jake Burt
Strengthening the Defense and Tight End Room
The Lions added linebacker Jarrad Davis in the third round, bringing energy, athleticism, and versatility to a linebacker corps in need of depth. Davis contributed on both sides of the ball and special teams.
Jake Burt, a tight end selected in the fourth round, offered red-zone targetability and blocking ability, complementing an evolving passing attack that sought reliable intermediate threats.
Late-Round Potential and Developmental Picks
Building Depth with Troy Fumagalli
The Detroit Lions used their sixth-round selection on Troy Fumagalli, a tight end from Wisconsin, to add depth and special-teams value. Though not a star prospect, these types of selections often contribute through consistency and situational play.
This pick illustrated the team’s focus on depth across the roster while investing in players with high football IQ and strong blocking fundamentals.
Legacy of the 2018 Draft Class
- Jeff Okudah provided a high-ceiling answer at cornerback.
- Taylor Decker restored stability to the offensive line.
- Jarrad Davis offered versatile defensive contributions.
- Jake Burt and Troy Fumagalli added valuable depth and special-teams play.
- The selections reflected a balanced approach between immediate impact and developmental potential.
- This draft class marked a foundational rebuild for the franchise.
- Each pick addressed specific positional needs while considering long-term growth.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which 2018 pick became the most impactful contributor for the Lions?
Jeff Okudah emerged as the most impactful 2018 pick, developing into a starting cornerback and playmaker during his time with Detroit.
Did the Lions address their most pressing need with the Taylor Decker pick?
Yes, selecting Taylor Decker at offensive tackle significantly improved pass protection and run blocking, addressing a key weakness.
How did Jarrad Davis fit into the Lions’ defensive plans?
Jarrad Davis provided versatile linebacker play, contributing in coverage, pass rushing, and special teams during his tenure with Detroit.
What long-term role did Jake Burt and Troy Fumagalli play?
Burt and Fumagalli added depth and special-teams reliability, supporting the offense in non-star roles during their respective tenures.