The Detroit Lions received trade offers but instead decided to stay pat and select Iowa tight end T.J. Hockenson with the eighth pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The Lions are adding a key weapon to their offense and are getting one of the most complete tight ends in the country. Hockenson becomes an immediate starter and will likely be the third option in the passing game.
Hockenson, who will turn just 22 years-old in July, was this year’s Mackey Award winner as the best tight end in college football. He brings to the table a balanced game that’s foundation is built on blocking and winning in the seam.
Technically the Lions are done for the night — though they could trade back into the first round — but they still have the following picks over the next two days:
| Round 2 | Pick 11 | 43 Overall |
| Round 3 | Pick 24 | 88 Overall |
| Round 4 | Pick 9 | 111 Overall |
| Round 5 | Pick 8 | 146 Overall |
| Round 6 | Pick 11 | 184 Overall |
| Round 6 | Pick 30 | 204 Overall |
| Round 7 | Pick 10 | 224 Overall |
| Round 7 | Pick 20 | 229 Overall |
