Re-Grading The 2008 Draft
Detroit Lions
The best pick from a weak draft was third-round defensive end Cliff Avril. He starts and is one of the better pass rushers on the roster. First-round pick Gosder Cherilus starts, but he hasn't been as good a tackle as expected. Aside from those two, this class didn't bring much. Third-round pick Kevin Smith produced as a rookie runner, but had just 125 yards last season. He has had knee and shoulder surgeries the past two seasons. Fullback Jerome Felton, drafted in the fifth round, is a steady player at a low-value position.
Grade now: D-
Grade then: B+
