Which position should the Detroit Lions target first in the 2024 NFL Draft?

Make sure to vote and share your opinion in our latest SB Nations Reacts Survey: Which position should the Detroit Lions target first in the 2024 NFL Draft?

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With the 2024 NFL Draft just days away, it’s time for another SB Nation Reacts survey. We only have one question this week but there’s bound to be plenty of opinions surrounding it.

Which position should the Lions draft first?

The Detroit Lions have arguably their most complete roster in the last decade, meaning there aren’t many holes to fill. Most of the immediate needs have been addressed but there are a few spots that could be upgraded, as well as prepared for the future.

While general manager Brad Holmes deploys a “best player available” approach to the draft—and doesn’t plan on changing that approach following the team’s success—there are certain positions that could use a little more attention. Here’s a look at those positions of need, along with the betting odds that the Lions will that position, courtesy of the folks over at DraftKings Sportsbook,

• Wide receiver (+300)
• Offensive line (+275)
• Defensive tackle (+300)
• Edge rusher (+300)
• Corner (+135)

The Lions have several options in their receiver room, but they lost starter Josh Reynolds in free agency and have not made a move to replace him. This draft is loaded with options, but to acquire a starter-level replacement, they may need to attack the position early.

The Lions’ starting five offensive linemen are set but they are aging on the interior and could use some insurance this season along with some long-term security. The offensive line is the heartbeat of this team and should realistically be added to each offseason.

Defensive tackle got a big upgrade in free agency after signing DJ Reader, but they could still use a rotational player with starting upside considering Reader is coming off an injury. They could also use some insurance in case they are unable to sign Alim McNeill to a contract extension.

You can never have enough edge rushers, and while the Lions did sign former first-round Marcus Davenport, they could still use more talent at the position overall. It’s difficult to find an impactful edge player late in the draft, so drafting one early tends to lead to the most success.

Corner is arguably the Lions’ biggest need, as it’s been one of their biggest problems under this regime. They turned over the room in free agency, but after releasing starter Cam Sutton following a Domestic Violence arrest, it certainly makes sense to invest draft capital in this position.

Let the debate begin. Be sure to share your thoughts in the comment section and vote in the SB Nation Reacts surveys below and results from the Reacts surveys will be posted before the first round of the NFL Draft.