Is it possible that Chase Young, the defensive end that is the overall top NFL draft prospect on the board in 2020, drops out of the top three? Well, there is one possible scenario where it could happen. Maybe.
That said, before the Lions even have the option at No. 3 to choose between Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah and Young, one thing must happen.
The Washington Redskins, a lock to draft Young, must trade out of the second-overall pick.
The Dolphins, the team linked to trading up for a franchise quarterback, boast several first-round picks and could couple them if they believe in either Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa and Oregon’s Justin Herbert enough to make the move.
That would put Detroit in an interesting position. And, according to one Pro Football Focus analyst, they still opt for Okudah, a player that would tremendously enhance their secondary.
“There’s an obvious debate between Okudah and his teammate, Chase Young, but the Lions’ man-coverage attack desperately needs more options on the back end, and Okudah’s production and measurables make him the top cornerback on the PFF draft board. Okudah has excellent movement size, speed and movement skills — all excellent fits for what the Lions need opposite new cornerback Desmond Trufant on the outside,” PFF”s Steve Palazzolo wrote.
Chase Young was a sack machine at @OhioStateFB in 2019. 💪 @youngchase907
📺: 2020 @NFLDraft, April 23-25 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC pic.twitter.com/fTusA4zyNt
— NFL (@NFL) April 6, 2020
With Darius Slay in Philadelphia, the Lions desperately need help on the outside. In a division with the Packers’ Aaron Rodgers throwing lasers, the Lions will need help containing elite wide receivers.
Young is a game-changer, and he’s the type of player every defensive coordinator should want and one that every offensive coordinator will fear.
But, for Detroit, he wouldn’t be the best fit, and then the New York Giants may get the surprise of a lifetime, being able to draft him at No. 4.
It’s possible, just unlikely.