Detroit Lions: Examining the Fit of Each 2022 NFL Draft Pick

Chase Lucas, Cornerback, Arizona State

The Detroit Lions took Chase Lucas, a corner out of Arizona State, with their final selection. Lucas spent six years in college and five of them as a starter making him the second oldest corner on the roster. Despite being old for a rookie, Lucas has discipline issues that NFL quarterbacks will be able to expose for big plays.

Lucas could be a solid depth corner with inside-out versatility if he cleans those up. Lucas does a good job sticking with receivers in coverage and can make plays on the ball once it is in the air. Lucas is slightly undersized, which can cause issues with bigger receivers meaning he might be better in the slot long term, but he should be able to match up with smaller outside receivers. Lucas should compete with AJ Parker and Bobby Price for a depth spot on the roster where his ability to play inside and outside could give him the edge.

At first look, the Lions look to have another strong draft class. They were able to get two young players with star potential in Aidan Hutchinson and Jameson Williams. Josh Paschal, Kerby Joseph, and James Mitchell should all have prominent roles in the rookie year and have the potential to be good starters in the future.

Malcolm Rodriguez is a really exciting sixth-round pick who could be the next Jalen Reeves-Maybin, or he could be an even better version. In James Houston and Chase Lucas, the Lions got two versatile depth pieces with a decent chance to make the roster as seventh-round picks.

This draft class should provide several short and long-term pieces as the Lions’ rebuild continues.