“Detroit Lions Stun NFL Draft with Unanticipated Pick of Jahmyr Gibbs”

In a shocking turn of events, Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions traded the number 6 pick to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for pick number 12 and pick number 34. The Cardinals ended up selecting Paris Johnson Jr., significantly improving a struggling offensive line in front of Kyler Murray.

With the number 12 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select:

Jahmyr Gibbs, Running Back, Alabama

Shocking the World at Number 12

Against all odds, the Detroit Lions selected Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs at number 12 in the 2023 NFL Draft, stunning fans and experts alike. While many expected Bijan Robinson to be the only running back chosen in the first round, the Lions’ General Manager Brad Holmes made the bold move to draft Gibbs. This is following Holmes trend of picking an Alabama offensive star in back-to-back drafts, both at pick number 12.

Dynamic Player with Mismatch Potential

Jahmyr Gibbs has drawn comparisons to Jamaal Charles due to his electric play style and ability to excel in big-time football. Though Gibbs may not carry the entire weight of an NFL running game, he possesses the capacity to inject life into the Lions’ offense with his slashing and elusive moves.

Gibbs’ Strengths: Speed and Agility

One of Gibbs’ most remarkable attributes is his speed, which enables him to widen the field for play-callers. With instant acceleration and gliding strides, Gibbs runs with light, quick feet that allow for sudden lateral cuts. His ability to open the corner by altering tempo and stride helps stall pursuit from defenders, while his elusive moves make it difficult for open-field tacklers to bring him down.

Versatile Mismatch Weapon

Gibbs’ versatility as a pass-catching weapon in the passing game offers Ben Johnson the chance to exploit different personnel groupings and find mismatches in space. His route running skills make him a challenging cover in man-to-man situations, and his natural, soft, and sure hands only add to his appeal as a valuable offensive asset. He may not have been expected to be drafted as early as pick number 12, Gibbs is a perfect fit behind the Lions offensive line.

D’Andre Swift’s Future in Detroit

The big question now is what this move means for D’Andre Swift’s future with the Detroit Lions. With Jahmyr Gibbs joining the roster, the Lions may have to make some decisions about the best way to utilize their running backs moving forward.

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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21

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