Detroit Lions select RB Kerryon Johnson in second round of the 2018 NFL Draft

The Detroit Lions have made their second pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, choosing Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson in the second round.

In the end, the wait for the Detroit Lions‘ first pick of day two came sooner than scheduled. After trading up with the New England Patriots, the Lions have made their second pick of the 2018 NFL Draft. Moving up from the 51st overall pick cost the Lions the 117th overall pick (fourth round).

Who: Kerryon Johnson
What: Running back
Where: Auburn
When: Round 2, Pick 11 (43 overall)
Why: It was widely speculated that the Lions would add a running back on day two given the team’s need and the depth of this running back draft class.

With three running backs going in round one and two more coming off the board early in round two, the Lions clearly felt they couldn’t sit back and risk missing out on someone they felt would be an impact back.

Adding to the intrigue is the fall of LSU running back Derrius Guice, who is clearly falling down the draft for something that isn’t yet public knowledge. If that’s that case and NFL teams are really spooked, for whatever reason, that’s a hit to the running back talent pool and another reason why the Lions may have felt it necessary to make a move up for a running back.

Were you expecting a draft heavy on defense? The Lions have made it two-for-two on offense so far through the 2018 NFL Draft and now have one fewer picks at their disposal. They were light on picks coming in with just six and now go down to five after giving up their fourth rounder to move up to get Johnson.

Next: Full Lions draft coverage on Detroit Jock City

Barring a trade, the Lions’ next pick is the 18th pick in the third round, 82nd overall.