2019 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions select TE T.J. Hockenson 8th overall

With the eight pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions have selected Iowa tight end T.J. Hockenson.

While the board looked like it was falling favorable for the Lions to select a defensive player in the draft. Ed Oliver was still on the board. So was Devin Bush or Brian Burns.

Instead, the Lions went with a Hockenson, the third tight end the Lions have taken in the first round since 2009.

Hockenson is a well-balanced player that will both be a threat in the receiving game and as an in-line blocker. Combined with the free agency addition of Jesse James and the Lions’ tight end position is now much improved from last year’s disappointing squad.

This pick puts into question the long-term status of Michael Roberts, who was selected in the fourth round just two years ago, but has disappointed on the field.

For now, the Lions are done in the opening day of the draft, however, they could always trade up late.

Lions remaining picks

• Round 2, Pick 11 (43 overall)
• Round 3, Pick 25 (88 overall)
• Round 4, Pick 9 (111 overall)
• Round 5, Pick 8 (146 overall)
• Round 6, Pick 11 (184 overall)
• Round 6, Pick 32 (204 overall)
• Round 7, Pick 10 (224 overall)
• Round 7, Pick 15 (229 overall)

Top remaining needs for Lions:

• Guard
• Cornerback
• Tight end
• Wide receiver
• EDGE
• Linebacker
• Safety
• Backup QB

NFL Draft schedule

Friday

What: Rounds 2-3 of the NFL Draft
When: Friday, April 27, 7 p.m. ET
Where: Arlington, TX
TV: NFL Network, ESPN/ESPN 2, ABC
Time per pick: Round 2: 7 minutes; Round 3: 5 minutes

Estimated time of Lions picks:

• Pick 43 overall: ~ 7:52 p.m. ET
• Pick 88 overall: ~10:36 p.m ET

Saturday

What: Rounds 4-7 of the NFL Draft
When: Saturday, April 28, Noon ET
Where: Arlington, TX
TV: NFL Network, ESPN, ABC
Time per pick: Rounds 4-6: 5 minutes; Round 7: 4 minutes

Estimated time of Lions picks:

• Pick 111 overall: ~12:36 p.m. ET
• Pick 146 overall: ~2:12 p.m. ET
• Pick 184 overall: ~3:55 p.m. ET
• Pick 204 overall: ~4:54 p.m. ET
• Pick 224 overall: ~5:38 p.m. ET
• Pick 229 overall: ~5:49 p.m. ET