Talent at the Top: Grading the Lions’ 2022 Draft as Players Hit the 3-Year Benchmark.

The Detroit Lions’ 2022 NFL Draft marked a significant step in the team’s rebuilding process.

With general manager Brad Holmes at the helm, the Lions made several moves that not only addressed immediate needs but also set the team up for future success.

As these players hit the three-year benchmark in their careers, it’s time to evaluate how the Lions’ 2022 draft class has performed so far.

1. Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE (1st Round, 2nd Overall)

Grade: A

The Detroit Lions’ first-round selection in the 2022 draft was Aidan Hutchinson, an edge rusher from Michigan who was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the class.

Since being drafted second overall, Hutchinson has lived up to the hype, quickly establishing himself as the cornerstone of the Lions’ defense.

In his first two seasons, he has shown tremendous growth and development, finishing his rookie year with 9.5 sacks and 52 pressures.

In 2023, Hutchinson took another step forward, recording double-digit sacks and continuing to be a disruptive force on the edge.

His ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks while also contributing in the run game has been invaluable.

Hutchinson’s leadership on the field and presence in the locker room have also made him a key figure in the Lions’ defensive turnaround.

The Lions’ decision to take him at No. 2 is looking like a franchise-defining move, and Hutchinson is already one of the best young pass rushers in the league.

2. Jameson Williams, WR (1st Round, 12th Overall)

Grade: C+

When the Lions traded up to the 12th spot to select Jameson Williams, the expectation was that they had secured a dynamic deep threat to pair with Jared Goff and create a more potent offense.

Williams, a standout at Alabama known for his incredible speed, suffered a torn ACL in the 2021 National Championship Game, which delayed his debut with the Lions.

After returning from injury in the latter half of his rookie season, Williams has struggled to find consistent production.

While his speed is evident, Williams has yet to fully integrate into the Lions’ offense.

In his first two seasons, Williams has been limited by injuries and inconsistent play, finishing with a modest 14 catches for 240 yards and one touchdown through his first two years.

His potential remains high, but with injuries and a lack of development, Williams’ career trajectory is still uncertain.

The Lions need him to step up and become the game-changer they envisioned when they drafted him.

3. Josh Paschal, EDGE (2nd Round, 46th Overall)

Grade: B-

Josh Paschal, the Lions’ second-round pick from Kentucky, was brought in to bolster the defensive line and provide depth alongside Hutchinson.

Paschal had an injury-plagued start to his NFL career, missing time due to a groin issue during his rookie season, but he showed promise when on the field.

His versatility as an edge rusher and interior lineman allowed the Lions to use him in various roles on the defense.

In his first two seasons, Paschal has flashed his potential but has struggled with consistency.

While not as impactful as Hutchinson, he has been solid in his rotational role and has been a key contributor in both run defense and pass rushing situations.

With continued development, Paschal could solidify his place as a long-term starter on the Lions’ defensive line.

4. Kerby Joseph, S (3rd Round, 97th Overall)

Grade: B

Kerby Joseph, a safety out of Illinois, was a surprise pick for some, but he has quickly proven his worth.

Joseph made an immediate impact as a rookie, stepping in and starting in the defensive backfield.

His ball skills were evident early on, and he ended his first season with 4 interceptions. Joseph is known for his playmaking ability and has been a solid contributor to the secondary.

His ability to read the quarterback and make plays in the passing game has been a standout trait.

However, like most young players, Joseph has had some growing pains.

His coverage skills can still improve, and he’s working to be more consistent in both coverage and run support.

That said, his trajectory is promising, and the Lions have found a potential long-term starter at a key position.

5. Malcom Rodriguez, LB (6th Round, 188th Overall)

Grade: B+

Malcolm Rodriguez was one of the biggest steals of the 2022 draft, taken in the sixth round.

The linebacker out of Oklahoma State made an immediate impact in his rookie season, starting multiple games and proving to be a highly effective tackler.

Rodriguez’s football IQ, sideline-to-sideline range, and leadership have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the Lions’ linebacker corps.

In his first two seasons, Rodriguez has shown steady improvement, earning more snaps and playing a crucial role in both run defense and coverage situations.

His ability to read plays and get to the ball has earned him a reputation as a reliable and aggressive linebacker.

Rodriguez’s development into a starting-caliber player in the sixth round makes him one of the draft’s best values.

6. James Houston IV, EDGE (6th Round, 217th Overall)

Grade: A-

James Houston IV, a pass rusher from Jackson State, was another late-round gem for the Lions.

Houston made an immediate impact with his speed and relentless motor, recording 8 sacks in just 7 games as a rookie.

His ability to get after the quarterback and disrupt the pocket has made him a fan favorite and a rising star in Detroit’s defense.

Houston has quickly become a key rotational piece for the Lions, and there’s significant optimism about his future.

His work ethic, combined with his knack for getting to the quarterback, makes him one of the best finds of the 2022 draft.

Overall, the Detroit Lions’ 2022 draft class has shown plenty of promise, with some players exceeding expectations and others still working toward their potential.

Aidan Hutchinson has quickly emerged as a star, while James Houston and Malcolm Rodriguez have been valuable contributors.

Jameson Williams remains a wildcard, and his future with the team is still uncertain, but his upside keeps hope alive.

Kerby Joseph has established himself as a key piece of the defense, while Josh Paschal’s development remains an area to watch.

As the Lions move into their third season with these players, the 2022 draft class appears to be a success.

With more time and experience, this group has the potential to become the foundation of a competitive and successful Detroit team in the years to come.