Free agency moves impact draft strategies
The Detroit Lions will enter the 2024 NFL season as the team to beat. As a result, each of the other three NFC North teams have curated their offseason plans with the intent taking claiming the division for themselves.
Here’s a look at how each team in the NFC North attacked free agency, as well as how their moves impact their plans for the 2024 NFL Draft:
Minnesota Vikings
After six rollercoaster years, the Vikings let Kirk Cousins walk in free agency last month, choosing not to match the offer he got from the Falcons. They signed Sam Darnold to be a bridge option, but Cousins’ departure essentially locks Minnesota into drafting a quarterback in the first round this year. They’ve since made a deal with the Texans to acquire a second first-round pick, which they could perhaps package in a trade up into the top five for one of the big four QBs.
Outside of Cousins, the Vikings replaced Danielle Hunter, D.J. Wonnum, and Jordan Hicks with Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Blake Cashman. They also added Aaron Jones and Shaquill Griffin to fill holes in the starting lineup.
At the moment, defensive tackle and cornerback are their most obvious non-quarterback needs. If the Vikings don’t trade up, they could stay put at 11 and 23 and address one of those spots along with taking Michael Penix Jr. or Bo Nix. Edge rusher is also a possibility, although the additions of Greenard and Van Ginkel mean that isn’t a necessity.
The most likely outcome feels like an aggressive move up the board for Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy, even though that would mean waiting to make defensive additions on Day 3.
Detroit Lions
The Lions entered free agency with a plan to address needs on defense, as evidenced by targeting two defensive linemen and two defensive backs.
Trading for cornerback Carlton Davis and signing Amik Robertson upgraded a secondary that ranked in the bottom third of the NFL in pass coverage.
Defensive coordinator Aaron
Glenn has a player in Davis that can play man-to-man coverage and competes well against quality wideouts.
Unfortunately, veteran Cam Sutton getting himself into legal troubles could force Detroit’s front office to target another defensive back or two in this year’s draft.
DJ Reader and Marcus Davenport are intriguing additions to the defensive line, but come with a certain level or risk due to both veterans battling significant injuries last season.
Kevin Zeitler is a veteran guard that helps the offensive line deal with the sting of losing Jonah Jackson to the Rams in free agency.
Heading into the draft, general manager Brad Holmes and the front office feel comfortable they are still able to deploy their strategy of targeting the best player available at pick No. 29.
At this point, Detroit could literally do anything when it is there turn to hand in their draft card.