Rumor: Anthony Richardson in Play for Lions at No. 6

The Detroit Lions could draft a quarterback with their first pick in Thursday's draft.
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The Detroit Lions could be set to make a splash Thursday night during the NFL Draft. 

According to 97.1 The Ticket, the Lions may be looking to select a quarterback with their first selection in the NFL Draft. 

During "The Valenti and Rico Show," the possibility of taking a quarterback early was discussed. Mike Valenti received information from fellow host and Lions sideline reporter T.J. Lang that the team may look to draft a quarterback. 

"It is my belief that if Will Anderson is not there at six, they're taking a quarterback," Valenti recounted from his conversation with Lang.

Lang indicated that, while it hasn't been discussed much by other pundits recently, the team could target a developmental quarterback, even in the first round. 

"Don't sleep on (Anthony) Richardson," Lang told Valenti. 

Throughout the draft process, the Lions have been securely linked to many defensive players at the top of consensus draft boards. 

Detroit did meet with the signal- caller from Florida at the NFL Combine in March. However, with Jared Goff set as the starter, the team has not been viewed as a major contender for a top prospect under center. 

Viewed as a prospect with more potential than what he showed in college, Richardson is viewed as a top prospect, with a wide range of landing spots Thursday night. 

It is widely believed that Carolina will select Alabama's Bryce Young first overall, but the fates of the remaining top passers remain to be seen.

Lions general manager Brad Holmes made the backup quarterback position a point of emphasis this offseason. 

To this point, the team has only re-signed backup Nate Sudfeld. Detroit has been linked to free agent Teddy Bridgewater, but little is known about the team's plans for the position in the NFL Draft. 

The Lions hold two first-round picks, at sixth and 18th overall, respectively. 


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Christian Booher
CHRISTIAN BOOHER

Sports journalist who has covered the Detroit Lions the past three NFL seasons. Christian brings expert analysis, insights and an ability to fairly assess how the team is performing in a tough NFC North division.