Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has often conveyed the message that they don’t approach the NFL Draft with needs in mind. Their primary goal is to get good football players, and then figure out how they can fit within their overall plans after. That strategy certainly seems to have worked thus far, as Holmes’ drafting history over the past four years can be put up against the best of the best in the NFL.
And while I agree with Holmes’ overall strategy, I think it really only applies to immediate needs. If you’re trying to fill holes for the immediate roster with a rookie, it may force you to reach for a player simply because of his position.