written by don banks of S.I.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/don_banks/03/01/broncos.lions.trade/index.html
Conventional wisdom as it currently exists regarding the top of this year's NFL Draft took its first hit Thursday when the Detroit Lions agreed to a trade that will send cornerback Dre' Bly to Denver in exchange for running back Tatum Bell, offensive tackle George Foster and a fifth-round pick.
Why? Because once the deal is executed Friday, the first day of both free agency and the league's new fiscal year, the Lions will suddenly have the freedom to go in a number of directions with their No. 2 overall pick. The acquisition of Foster, who has started 45 games in the past three seasons, means Detroit isn't locked in on taking Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas, who has been the overwhelming early consensus for the Lions' selection.
With Foster at right tackle and veteran Jeff Backus on the left side, Detroit's offensive line is no longer its crying need, freeing general manager Matt Millen and head coach Rod Marinelli to pass on Thomas if they wish and address another position in the first round.
Though it might stun some given Detroit's recent draft history at the position, the focus might now shift to receiver, where the draft's best overall prospect -- Georgia Tech's gifted Calvin Johnson -- tantalizingly awaits. While Millen drafted a first-round receiver three consecutive seasons (Charles Rogers in 2003, Roy Williams in 2004 and Mike Williams in 2005), some believe the Lions will only continue their trend of making mistakes at that position if they pass on Johnson and his scary-good package of size, speed and strength.
Another option that now looks more plausible at No. 2 for the Lions is Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, who could be groomed for a year behind Detroit starter Jon Kitna. Quinn's stock could be on the rise again after the Combine, where he reportedly impressed teams in his interview sessions and also ripped off an eye-opening 24 reps on the bench press.
This much is also clearer in light of the Detroit-Denver trade: Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson will not be the Lions' pick, given that Bell gives the Lions insurance at that position should starter Kevin Jones not return quickly enough in 2007 from the foot injury he suffered last year.
