Bold Predictions: Lions Draft QB Anthony Richardson with No. 6 Pick

Could GM Brad Holmes make a bold draft-day decision and select Anthony Richardson?

The buzz surrounding the Detroit Lions selecting an offensive player with their first selection in the 2023 NFL Draft has been nonexistent. 

After quarterback Jared Goff shined in Ben Johnson's offense last year, confidence is high that he will have another stellar season in 2023. 

Following the conclusion of the 2022 season, general manager Brad Holmes acknowledged the team needed to make the backup quarterback position more of a priority than it did last offseason. 

Despite Anthony Richardson's high upside, there has not been much speculation about Richardson landing in Detroit. 

Meanwhile, C.J. Stroud reportedly had a positive meeting with Detroit's personnel department and coaching staff. 

"I know I can process very well, and I know I’m very smart," Stroud told reporters prior to the draft. "You can’t play at Ohio State and not be smart. And for the S2 test, it is what it is. It happened, and I’m willing to stick up and I don’t have no excuses. I know what I can do on that field, though."

Also, could Detroit target one of the top offensive linemen early in the draft? 

Here are some bold predictions that Holmes and Co. could pull off on the night of the draft. 

Christian Booher 

I think the Lions could pull off a stunner by selecting Anthony Richardson sixth overall Thursday night. His athleticism and mobility make him extremely enticing, and he's a natural fit, as he'd sit this year behind starter Jared Goff. The Lions would be taking a big swing, but it could result in landing their future franchise quarterback.

John Maakaron 

Th Lions accept a trade-down offer from the Philadelphia Eagles. If Holmes can garner enough interest in Detroit's No. 6 pick, there is the potential for Detroit to land the Eagles' No. 10 and No. 30 picks, giving Detroit three first-round selections. 

With additional picks, Detroit can bolster its secondary and potentially add talent to its offense, namely the offensive line. 

Vito Chirco 

With all the recent love for Will Levis, quarterback C.J. Stroud falls into the Lions' laps at No. 6 overall. And, Holmes doesn't resist the temptation to draft him.

Despite the recent negativity surrounding his test scores, Stroud is among the most accurate passers coming out this year. His upside and potential would make it intriguing to insert him into this offense in 12 months or possibly sooner.