Round one of the 2023 NFL Draft is in the books for the NFL. The Detroit Lions made two polarizing selections in Alabama RB Jahmyr Gibbs and Iowa LB Jack Campbell, which threw the fanbase into an uproar and sparked a massive positional value debate.
Afterward, General Manager Brad Holmes announced the Lions highly touted the two players who could be difference makers for the franchise coming into Allen Park. For some, it shook the confidence the Lions have been able to build in the last two seasons, but, ironically, each time they mention Gibbs and Campbell are outstanding players. Clearly, the Lions love these guys and figure they can take their team to the next level.
As for the other teams in the NFC North, here is a roundup of how their night went.
Chicago Bears select Tennessee OT Darnell Wright
The Bears traded back one spot from 9 to 10 with the Philadelphia Eagles, who went on to select Jalen Carter. Wright was the second offensive tackle taken after Paris Johnson, who the Arizona Cardinals took. Wright’s draft stock soared after an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl and turned into a favorite amongst fanbases. It became clear the Bears wanted to ensure they gave Justin Fields the protection he needs, as Wright will likely bookend the tackle spot opposite of Braxton Jones.
General Manager Ryan Poles mentioned Wright was their top tackle on their draft board and was always their guy. Poles called him a tone-setter and plays with an edge to his game. In addition, Wright gives the Bears an athletic specimen who processes the versatility to line up at tackle and guard. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see how well he handles the Lions pass rushers with Aidan Hutchinson, Josh Paschal, and James Houston, depending on where they line up.
Green Bay Packers select Iowa EDGE Lukas Van Ness
The Packers are starting a new chapter after shipping Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets, and that first step was the selection of Van Ness to help beef up their defensive line. Surely, fans wanted to break that streak of not taking a pass catcher in the first round, but Van Ness provides the necessary depth that can move inside and outside depending on the package. Even though he did not start a game in Iowa, he made most of his opportunities leading the team with eleven tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks.
He processes the tangibles that can make him a dangerous defensive weapon for the Packers. General Manager Brian Gutekunst believes there is a lot of growth and the physical traits that give him the necessary room to grow, and there shouldn’t be any limitations for him. In addition, the versatility aspect of Van Ness will allow him to stay on the field and be equally effective in each area. The Lions offensive line could have their hands full with Van Ness if he gets going and furthers his development.
Minnesota Vikings select USC WR Jordan Addison
There were no receivers taken for the first part of the draft, but that dam broke, and the receivers started pouring in, and the Vikings decided to take part with their first-round selection of Jordan Addison. The Vikings saw Adam Thielen depart to the Carolina Panthers this offseason, leaving a hole opposite Justin Jefferson. So even though some believe the Vikings should’ve addressed the defensive side of the ball, the Vikings get the former Biletnikoff Award winner to help open off the offense with Addison’s superb route running and separation.
The Vikings are coming together through General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, who looks to keep adding impactful pieces in his second draft. He did mention the Vikings considered many options at the No. 23 selection but believes Addison’s desire stands out and is born to play in the NFL. The Lions did improve their secondary this year through free agency, and looks like they will need it to contend with the Vikings receiving corps with Jefferson, Osborn, and now the new addition of Addison.
