Detroit Lions select T.J. Hockenson: Grade, reaction for 2019 NFL Draft

The Detroit Lions took a tight end in the top 10 of the NFL Draft once again, selecting T.J. Hockenson out of Iowa. Grading the pick.

A Bill Belichick disciple knows how much a dominant tight end means to a team, but the Detroit Lions should’ve realized that the position doesn’t warrant a top 10 pick in the NFL Draft. In fact, long before the Matt Patricia era, the old Lions regime drafted a tight end inside the top 10: Eric Ebron.

With that said, Ebron was no T.J. Hockenson when he was coming out of North Carolina. Hockenson is more polished as a player. So polished, one can argue he was the safest day one pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. However, he’s more than just a safe pick; he brings upside.

Hockenson is a tough player and an ideal fit for Detroit and their offense. Hockenson is the best blocking tight end in the draft class. In the run game, he drives his guy and he has added value as a pass-blocker as well.

Hockenson has an old school feel to his game with his physicality, but is also made for the modern day NFL. He can split out, play in the slot and wreck the seam. Once he gets the ball, he looks to punish defenders. Versatility is his game and it makes him an excellent prospect.

In fact, The Draft Network cited his versatility as one of the reasons he’s so difficult to evaluate.

"“Hockenson is one of the easiest/hardest evaluations of my season. Hockenson is terrifically balanced as a football player and it doesn’t take more than a few reps to know he’s an immediate starter at the NFL level with scheme diversity. The challenge… Listing a weakness.”"

The Lions got themselves an excellent player regardless of position. We’ll see how the Lions utilize his skill-set. We know Stafford will get him the ball. However, is this the place to draft a tight end?

Grade: B