Jeremiah: 'Payoff Could Be Huge' If Lions Pick Anthony Richardson

Daniel Jeremiah released his latest NFL mock draft.

There has been an increase in speculation that the Detroit Lions could select a quarterback with one of their two first-round NFL draft picks in April. 

NFL Network NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah is among those who could see Detroit general manager Brad Holmes selecting Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson. 

Jeremiah explained on social media that the talented quarterback “has the most upside of any QB in this draft. I love the fit in Detroit. No rush to get him on the field. Goff can hold it down until he’s ready. The payoff could be HUGE.”

With veteran Jared Goff under center, the team could stash Richardson and develop him in its system. 

"The Lions have the perfect situation for Richardson as he enters the league," Jeremiah explained in his latest mock draft, which has Richardson being selected with the 18th pick. "He can sit behind Jared Goff for at least a year and then provide the rewards that come from building a team around a quarterback playing on his rookie contract."

Anthony Richardson has the most upside of any QB in this draft. I love the fit in Detroit. No rush to get him on the field. Goff can hold it down until he’s ready. The payoff could be HUGE pic.twitter.com/1quTAmV2zB

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 21, 2023

Calvin Johnson enjoying time with Lions 

Appearing on the "Jim Rome Show" Tuesday, Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Calvin Johnson explained further how he is working toward mending his damaged relationship with his former team. 

“I’m excited to be around the team again,” Johnson said. “Just being around football, and (to) allow my kids to see some of the things that I was able to do while I was with Detroit.”

It appears now that Lions chief operating officer Mike Disner has been at the forefront of mending the damaged relationship.

“I’m excited about him actually reaching out and putting the effort forward to try and make that happen,” Johnson said. “That’s the difference that I have not seen in the past that’s happening now.”

With the relationship headed in a positive direction, Johnson hopes to be able to be around the team and potentially help the young players on the roster. 

“I want to be back around football and help out the team,” Johnson said. “Not that they need my help, but I have a lot of experience to share with those guys, whether it’s football or off-the-field. I definitely could be of value to the organization.”