The Lions and Falcons struck a trade on Tuesday afternoon that sent the NFL world into a frenzy.
According to multiple reports, Detroit is sending former first-round pick Jeff Okudah to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2023 fifth-round draft choice. ESPN NFL insider Field Yates was the first to break the news that the two sides struck a blockbuster deal.
The Lions will unload the remaining $5.2 million in guaranteed money that Okudah is owed this season, according to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero. This allows Okudah, who was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, a chance at a fresh start. This trade not only gives Detroit an opportunity to select a cornerback with one of its first-round picks, but it also doesn’t force the Falcons to take a cornerback early.
Coming out of Ohio State, Okudah was considered to be the best cornerback prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. Over three seasons, he’s struggled to stay on the field due to various injuries, but he’s also struggled while on it. Now, he has a chance at a fresh start, starting opposite AJ Terrell in Atlanta.
The NFL world was buzzing over the blockbuster trade between the two NFC teams on social media:
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— Jeff Okudah (@jeffokudah) April 11, 2023
Really like this for the Falcons. Even if Okudah flames out (most likely due to injuries, which sucks) it's a good bet to make. Worth the move for some of the good we saw last year https://t.co/eldApdfJAG
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) April 11, 2023
Okudah can still be a useful player in this league. Think a move to safety or nickel could help. But regardless, a change of scenery felt like it was needed, especially after FA.
— Colton Pouncy (@colton_pouncy) April 11, 2023
The Falcons, fwiw, are the team Jeff Okudah wanted to play for coming out of college. Hopefully the change of scenery treats him well.
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) April 11, 2023
Jeff Okudah in @SportsInfo_SIS cornerback stats from last year.
76th among qualifying CB: 9.6 yards per pass
31st: 57% success rateStill has potential. Useful cover guy but his burns were VERY burny. (54 to DK Metcalf, 47 to Allan Lazard, 32 to Samari Toure).
— Aaron Schatz 🏈 (@ASchatzNFL) April 11, 2023
Covered Jeff Okudah as a rookie in Detroit. He’s a very smart player. Very smart. Injuries have been the main issue.
If he stays healthy it could be a big get for the Falcons.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) April 11, 2023
[Field Yates and Tom Pelissero on Twitter]
