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A look into the Michigan Wolverines who were selected in 2024 NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - The undefeated Michigan Wolverines saw several of its players get selected in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Starting on Thursday, six players were drafted, starting with quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Here's a list of the Wolverines who have been drafted:

J.J. McCarthy

As the 10th overall pick, J.J. McCarthy was selected by the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday.

Minnesota selected the 21-year-old after a trade between the Vikings and the New York Jets pushed the team from the No. 11 overall spot to No. 10.

"His ball placement and timing need to improve to help mitigate an average operation time due to a windup release," according to McCarthy's NFL Draft profile. "McCarthy doesn't seek to play out of structure but is fairly consistent at making positive plays when it happens and ramps up his focus late in games and on third downs. He is confident and seems to have the ability to take slights and digest it as competitive fuel."  

NFL Combine - Portraits
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 29: J.J. McCarthy of the Michigan Wolverines poses for portraits at the Indiana Convention Center on February 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. / Getty Images

Kris Jenkins

Defensive tackle Kris Jenkins was selected 49th overall in the second round of the draft.

"Jenkins has a smaller frame for his position, but he plays with good strength in one-on-one power swaps. He can neutralize single blocks but has trouble fighting back to muddy his gap against double-teams," read his draft profile. "His motor stays engaged. He's frequently running down ball-carriers and chasing quarterbacks by the end of the play."

Jenkins' father, a four-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, was selected in the second round of the 2001 draft by the Carolina Panthers.

NFL: FEB 28 Scouting Combine
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 28: Michigan defensive lineman Kris Jenkins answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on February 28, 2024, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Mike Sainristil

In a back-to-back selection, Michigan cornerback Mike Sainristil was selected by the Washington Commanders in the second round as the 50th overall pick.

Sainristil, who played five seasons with Michigan, won Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week in November 2023, starting all 15 games in the season and contributing to the special teams. 

He led with 44 tackles and set a single-season record in 2023 with 232 interception return yards.

NFL: FEB 29 Scouting Combine
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 29: Michigan defensive back Mike Sainristil answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on February 29, 2024, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Junior Colson

Michigan Linebacker Junior Colson will join Jim Harbaugh after being selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the third round (69th overall pick. 

He won the Lott IMPACT (Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, Tenacity) Award in 2023 and was named to the second-team All-Big Ten Conference. He started all 15 games and led Michigan with 95 tackles.

"Colson's upper-body strength and body control stand out when battling blocks or finishing tackles. He has adequate sideline-to-sideline range but needs to play with faster recognition to keep from getting trapped by climbing blocks," read his draft profile. "He doesn't play with a trigger-happy, downhill mindset, so he misses out on playmaking opportunities. Colson is a tough guy with good stopping power and can handle himself in coverage."

NFL Combine - Portraits
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 1: Linebacker Junior Colson of the Michigan Wolverines poses for portraits at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Todd Rosenberg / Getty Images

Blake Corum

Michigan running back will be heading to Los Angeles to play for the Rams after being selected in the third round of the NFL Draft.  

Corum, who was selected 83rd overall, dominated in his last season with the Wolverines, starting in all 15 games and leading the team with 258 rushes for 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns.

"Compact runner with average size, outstanding contact balance and a rare talent for finding and fitting into small crevices for short-yardage conversions and touchdowns," according to his NFL Draft profile. "Corum is a bit of a one-speed runner lacking sizzle and wiggle but gets it downhill with timing and finishes runs with good forward lean. He has the hard-hat mentality to handle heavy workloads and can exploit defenses that fatigue or miss their run fits."

NFL Combine
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 2: Blake Corum #RB06 of Michigan warms up during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images

Roman Wilson

Wide receiver Roman Wilson was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 84th overall pick in the third round.

The sixth Wolverine selected, Wilson led Michigan with 48 catches in the 2023 season, 789 yards and 12 touchdowns. He set a career-high with nine catches and 143 yards in the Nov. 4, 2023, game against Purdue.

NFL Combine
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 01: Roman Wilson #WO39 of the Michigan Wolverines speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Draft Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 01, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael Hickey / Getty Images

Zak Zinter

Michigan guard Zak Zinter was the last Wolverine on Friday to be selected in the NFL Draft.

The Cleveland Browns selected Zinter as the 85th overall pick.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 309 pounds, Zinter was a three-time All-Big Ten selection at Michigan and a two-time CSC Academic All-American.

"Zinter enters the league with NFL size, toughness and technique. He is an average athlete in short spaces but is very capable of climbing to the second level with good angles and making hits on short pulls. He can be stood up and neutralized by two-gapping pluggers but is rarely beaten soundly," according to his draft profile.

NFL Combine
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 02: Zak Zinter #OL71 of the Michigan speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on March 02, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. / Getty Images

Michigan running back Blake Corum going to the Los Angeles Rams

(CBS DETROIT) - Michigan running back Blake Corum will be heading to Los Angeles to play for the Rams after being selected in the third round of the NFL Draft.

Corum dominated in his last season with the Wolverines, starting in all 15 games and leading the team with 258 rushes for 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns.

Corum's selection was followed by two more Wolverines who were drafted on Friday. 

Wide receiver Roman Wilson and guard Zak Zinter were selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns, respectively.

A total of seven Wolverine players have been drafted in the last two days. On Thursday, quarterback J.J. McCarthy was selected in the first round on Thursday to the Minnesota Vikings.

Additionally, Western Michigan defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was picked by the Dallas Cowboys.


Michigan's Junior Colson joining Jim Harbaugh after selected by Los Angeles Chargers in NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - Michigan Linebacker Junior Colson will once again work under Jim Harbaugh after being selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Colson, who played three seasons with the undefeated Wolverines, was picked Friday in the third round of the draft.

He won the Lott IMPACT (Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, Tenacity) Award in 2023 and was named to the second-team All-Big Ten Conference. He started all 15 games and led Michigan with 95 tackles.

"Colson's upper-body strength and body control stand out when battling blocks or finishing tackles. He has adequate sideline-to-sideline range but needs to play with faster recognition to keep from getting trapped by climbing blocks," read his NFL profile. "He doesn't play with a trigger-happy, downhill mindset, so he misses out on playmaking opportunities. Colson is a tough guy with good stopping power and can handle himself in coverage."

Two other Wolverines, Kris Jenkins and Mike Sainristil, were drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders, respectively, in the second round.

For Colson, it will be another chance to work with Harbaugh, who led Michigan to their 2024 National Championship before taking on the role as head coach for the Chargers.


Western Michigan player Marshawn Kneeland selected by Dallas Cowboys

(CBS DETROIT) - West Michigan University defensive end Marshawn Kneeland is going to Texas after being selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Kneeland is the first player from Western Michigan to be selected in the draft this year and the first Bronco ever to be selected in the draft by the Cowboys.

From The Zoo to @dallascowboys ‼️

Congratulations, @MKneeland99 🥳🥳#EAT | #BroncoBuilt | #BroncosReign pic.twitter.com/gm2IEuf20e

— Western Michigan Football (@WMU_Football) April 27, 2024

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall at 267 pounds, the Grand Rapids native was named to second-team All-MAC in 2023. This past season, he finished with 57 total tackles, 4.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss. 

"He deals consequential first blows to opponents that often create openings for him to generate movement as a run defender or pass rusher," read his NFL profile. "Teams might drop him in as a 4-3 base end, but he's actually a more consistent playmaker when he's standing, surveying and using his athleticism rather than fist-fighting at the point of attack."


Detroit Lions select Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. in 2024 NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - The Detroit Lions have selected another cornerback in the 2024 NFL Draft! This time, they've picked Ennis Rakestraw Jr. from Missouri.

Rakestraw, who joins Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold on the rookie team, was selected 61st overall in the second round. 

"Rakestraw plays the game with good physicality and a competitive tilt that defensive back coaches will enjoy. He's strong but not as big or fast as teams usually like when picking within the first three rounds of the draft. However, he's hard-nosed in press and has the body control and anticipation to play a sticky brand of man coverage over the first two levels," according to his NFL profile.

The announcement was made with the help of Detroit legend Barry Sanders and Mayor Mike Duggan.

"It's a great time to be in Detroit," Duggan said.

Cornering the market#NFLDraft | @MizzouFootball pic.twitter.com/VxXj7uN3jF

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 27, 2024

Michigan players Kris Jenkins, Mike Sainristil selected back to back in 2024 NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - Michigan defensive tackle Kris Jenkins and cornerback Mike Sainristil are the next Wolverines to be selected in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Jenkins as the 49th overall pick in the second round, while the Washington Commanders selected Sainristil as the 50th overall pick.

This comes a day after quarterback J.J. McCarthy was selected by the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday in the first round of the draft.

The men were part of the undefeated Wolverines team that won the 2024 National Championship. On Friday, the Wolverines were honored for the win at the draft.

WITH THE 49TH PICK ➡️ DT @KrisJenkinsJr1 @IEL_LLC | 📺: NFL Draft on ESPN/ABC/NFLN pic.twitter.com/95h5qAWwuv

— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) April 27, 2024

Lockdown CB 🔒@MikeSainristil | #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/WTot8zdx7k

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) April 27, 2024

Watch Live: Detroit City FC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

(CBS DETROIT) - Detroit City FC heads on the road this weekend to face off against Eastern Conference rival Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. Detroit looks to keep its perfect season alive, while Pittsburgh looks to get some momentum going, having won only one of its first six games. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. EST, and the game will be broadcast locally on Detroit50 (WKBD-TV). Supporters located in Michigan can stream the match for free at www.cbsdetroit.com.

Detroit comes into this game after improving to 5-0-0 with a 3-1 victory over Oakland Roots SC. A Ben Morris goal in the 8th minute put Le Rouge up 1-0 early. Maxi Rodriguez would join the goal sheet via a penalty which was won by Alex Villanueva in the 27th minute. It would be Victor Bezerra finishing the scoring with his first goal in his DCFC career in the 51st minute.

Detroit City's fifth consecutive league win breaks the club-best record of form since joining the USL Championship. With a win this weekend, Detroit would tie the best six-game start to a USL Championship campaign in the league's history, tying Richmond Kickers in 2011 and Rochester Rhinos in 2012.

Le Rouge has also scored in five consecutive league matches so far this season, their most since scoring in 12 straight matches to start off the 2022 USL Championship campaign. 

After winning the Players' Shield last year as the USL Championship's best regular-season team, Pittsburgh has gotten off to a rocky start this year. Currently, at 1-3-2, the Riverhounds sit in 10th place in the Eastern Conference and only won their first game last weekend. Goals from Kazaiah Sterling, Edward Kizza, and Babacar Diene led Pittsburgh to a 3-1 victory on the road against Phoenix Rising FC last Saturday.

Detroit City fans will fondly remember the last matchup between these two clubs, in which Le Rouge walked away with a 1-0 victory on the road in the first round of the USL Championship playoffs. The win was Detroit City FC's first USL Championship playoff victory. A Dominic Gasso goal in the 78th minute and crucial saves from Nate Steinwascher in stoppage time was all Detroit needed to take down the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference. 

Le Rouge will continue the road trip next week, but Detroit returns to Keyworth Stadium on May 11th to face off against Phoenix Rising FC in a match that is set to be nationally televised on CBS Sports. Tickets for that match can be found at www.detcityfc.com/tickets.

For more information about Detroit City FC, visit detcityfc.com and follow @DetroitCityFC on X and Facebook and @detroitcityfootballclub on Instagram.

CBS News Detroit is the official broadcast partner of Detroit City FC. This story is reprinted with permission from Detroit City FC. 


New bobbleheads of Oakland University's Jack Gohlke unveiled

(CBS DETROIT) - The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum on Friday unveiled the new limited edition bobblehead featuring Oakland University basketball player Jack Golhke.

Eyes were on Gohlke, a grad transfer, as the Golden Grizzlies entered the 2024 NCAA Tournament, making it to the second round after an upset over Kentucky. In that game, Gohlke finished with 32 points.

The team lost to NC State in a close second-round game, but it was enough for people to pay attention to Oakland.

The official Gohlke bobblehead is in a black uniform and performing a shot behind the three-point line. The museum released bobbleheads for $30 plus an $8 shipping fee per order. They are expected to be shipped in October.

New bobbleheads of Oakland University's Jack Gohlke released
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum released graphics of the bobbleheads featuring Oakland University's Jack Gohlke on Friday, April 26, 2024. National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum

This comes after the museum released bobbleheads featuring Oakland head coach Greg Kampe and mascot Grizz.

"We're thrilled to be teaming up with Jack Gohlke and Oakland to release these bobbleheads celebrating one of March's biggest stars," said Phil Sklar, co-founder and CEO of the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum. "Jack's legendary performances will be remembered by fans across the world who were captivated by his incredible performances, and we know they're going to love Jack's first bobbleheads."

For more information on the bobblehead, visit the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum website.


What to know about Detroit Lions first-round pick Terrion Arnold

The Detroit Lions made a move to address their secondary, grabbing Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold with the No. 24 pick in the NFL draft after a trade with Dallas on Thursday night.

The Lions moved up from the No. 29 spot. Detroit also received a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Cowboys received Detroit's first-rounder plus a third-round pick in this year's draft (73rd overall).

Detroit had acquired that third-rounder from Minnesota in a previous trade.

Arnold was a first-team Associated Press All-American last season. He tied for sixth in the Football Bowl Subdivision with five interceptions and tied for fifth with 17 passes defensed while starting all 14 games for the Crimson Tide.

The 6-foot, 189-pound Arnold was the second cornerback selected Thursday. Philadelphia chose Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell two picks earlier.

Lions general manager Brad Holmes was somewhat stunned that Arnold was available. He was making calls to teams with picks in the "late teens" and finally found a trade partner in the Cowboys.

Arnold was Detroit's highest-ranked cornerback.

"I'm still kind of, 'Never thought he'd be there,'" Holmes said.

Arnold had one of the flashiest looks of this year's draft, wearing an electric salmon silk suit with a silver bow tie.

"You've got to have confidence, you've got to be borderline cocky but you've got to be humble at the same time," Lions passing game coordinator/defensive back coach DeShea Townsend said of what he looks for in a cornerback. "He's a kid that has confidence, but having that confidence he understands he has to work."

The Lions' pass defense was one of the few weaknesses on a team that reached the NFC championship game. Detroit allowed 7.8 yards per pass attempt, second-worst in the league, and a league-worst 69 completions of 20 or more yards.

Holmes said it was a perfect combination of talent and need.

"It doesn't always match up that way," he said. "I'm sure you've heard me say a million times I don't care what position it is, we're going to get the best player. It happened to match the best player and an area where we wanted to add one at some time. We didn't know if we were going to be able to add one in the first round."

Arnold joins a mix of newcomers and holdovers at the cornerback spot. Detroit traded for Tampa Bay's Carlton Davis III in March and signed Amik Robertson as a free agent. Robertson spent the past four seasons with Las Vegas.

The Lions also have Emmanuel Moseley and Kindle Vindor at the position. Detroit released former starter Cameron Sutton after he was accused of domestic violence.

Detroit has drafted an Alabama player in the first round three straight years. The Lions moved up to select wide receiver Jameson Williams at No. 12 in 2022 and chose running back Jahmyr Gibbs at the same spot last year.

"Those are my brothers," Arnold said. "There's something special going on here in Detroit."

The Lions own five more picks heading into the second day of the draft, including the 29th selection in the second round (61st overall).


2024 NFL Draft: Day 1 recap of first-round picks

The worst kept secret in the NFL finally came to fruition Thursday as the Chicago Bears selected highly-touted USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

But the theme of the first round was the run on quarterbacks. An unprecedented six of the first 12 picks were quarterbacks, an NFL Draft record. The first 14 selections were offensive players, also a draft record, with no defensive players being taken until the Indianapolis Colts selected UCLA defensive end Laiatu Latu at No. 15.  

The Bears and their long-suffering fans hope Williams, the 22-year-old phenom, will finally bring them much-needed stability at the quarterback position, which has been in flux since the days of Jim McMahon in the 1980s.

To make way for Williams, Chicago traded away quarterback Justin Fields last month to the Pittsburgh Steelers after the No. 11 pick in the 2021 draft failed to meet the lofty expectations that were set for him. The Bears immediately sought to give Williams a weapon, selecting Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze with the No. 9 pick. 

In honor of Detroit hosting the draft, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell trotted out rapper Eminem and Lions legend Barry Sanders to kick off the festivities. More than 275,000 people attended the draft Thursday, according to Goodell, a record for the event. 

2024 NFL Draft - Round 1
Former player Barry Sanders shakes hands with rapper Marshall "Eminem" Mathers during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan, as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell looks on.  Getty Images

This year's draft is one of the deepest in years at the quarterback, offensive tackle and wide receiver positions, in part due to the pandemic, which spurred many players to extend their college careers. Nine offensive linemen and seven wide receivers went off the board Thursday. In total, 23 offensive players and only nine defensive players were selected in the first round. 

The top of the draft went chalk, with quarterbacks as the first three selections. LSU's Jayden Daniels was taken No. 2 overall by the Washington Commanders, and the New England Patriots selected North Carolina's Drake Maye at No. 3 to replace former first round pick Mac Jones, who was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars last month. 

The Arizona Cardinals selected the first receiver with Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. — son of his namesake, legendary Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison Sr. — to pair with talented Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.  

Following reports that the Los Angeles Chargers and new head coach Jim Harbaugh would perhaps trade down, the Bolts instead stood pat, taking Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt in an effort to improve an offensive line that has struggled to protect franchise quarterback Justin Herbert.

The first major surprise was provided by the Atlanta Falcons, who even though they had signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason, selected Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 pick. Penix was not expected to go until late in the first round, due in part to injury concerns. 

The Minnesota Vikings — Cousins' former home — conducted the first trade of the night, swapping picks with the New York Jets to move up from 11 to 10 to select quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who led Michigan to a national title in January. 

The surprises culminated with the Denver Broncos — who also in search for help at quarterback after cutting Russell Wilson — selected seasoned 24-year-old Oregon quarterback Bo Nix at No. 12. Nix started 61 games over his college career, according to CBS Colorado, more than any other NCAA quarterback ever. 

Rounds two and three of the draft will be held Friday, and rounds four through seven on Saturday. 

NFL Draft order and picks for the first round

  • No. 1: Chicago Bears — QB Caleb Williams, USC
Caleb Williams
Caleb Williams poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected first overall by the Chicago Bears during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 2: Washington Commanders — QB Jayden Daniels, LSU
  • Jayden Daniels
    Jayden Daniels celebrates after being selected second overall by the Washington Commanders during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 3: New England Patriots — QB Drake Maye, North Carolina
Drake Maye
Drake Maye celebrates with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected third overall by the New England Patriots during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 4: Arizona Cardinals — WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State 
  • Marvin Harrison Jr.
    Marvin Harrison Jr. poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 5: Los Angeles Chargers — OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
  • Joe Alt
    Offensive tackle Joe Alt of Notre Dame prepares for the vertical jump during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kara Durrette / Getty Images
  • No. 6: New York Giants — WR Malik Nabers, LSU
  • Malik Nabers
    LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers arrives to the 2024 NFL Draft at the Fox Theatre on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton / Getty Images
  • No. 7: Tennessee Titans — OT JC Latham, Alabama
  • JC Latham
    JC Latham celebrates after being selected seventh overall by the Tennessee Titans during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 8: Atlanta Falcons — QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
  • Michael Penix
    Michael Penix of Washington participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 9: Chicago Bears — WR Rome Odunze, Washington 
  • Rome Odunze
    Rome Odunze poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected ninth overall by the Chicago Bears during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 10: Minnesota Vikings — QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan (via pick swap with the Jets)
  • J.J. McCarthy
    J.J. McCarthy of the Michigan Wolverines speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Draft Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 01, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael Hickey / Getty Images
  • No. 11: New York Jets — OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
Olu Fashanu
Offensive tackle Olu Fashanu of the Penn State participates in the 40 yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Justin Casterline / Getty Images
  • No. 12: Denver Broncos — QB Bo Nix, Oregon
  • Bo Nix
    Bo Nix of Oregon participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 13: Las Vegas Raiders — TE Brock Bowers, Georgia
  • Brock Bowers
    Brock Bowers, University of Georgia tight end, trains in his hometown on April 24, 2024 in Napa, California.  Kimberly White/Getty Images for MET-Rx
  • No. 14: New Orleans Saints — OT Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
  • Taliese Fuaga
    Taliese Fuaga of Oregon State participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 15: Indianapolis Colts — DE Laiatu Latu, UCLA
  • Laiatu Latu
    Laiatu Latu poses after being selected 15th overall by the Indianapolis Colts during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 16: Seattle Seahawks — DL Byron Murphy, Texas
  • Byron Murphy
    Defensive lineman Byron Murphy of Texas looks on during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on Feb. 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 17: Minnesota Vikings — DE Dallas Turner, Alabama (via trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars)
  • Dallas Turner
    Dallas Turner poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected 17th overall by the Minnesota Vikings during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 18: Cincinnati Bengals — OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
  • Amarius Mims
    Amarius Mims of Georgia participates in the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Getty Images
  • No. 19: Los Angeles Rams — DE Jared Verse, Florida State
Jared Verse
Jared Verse of Florida State runs the the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on Feb. 29, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 20: Pittsburgh Steelers — OL Troy Fautanu, Washington
  • Troy Fautanu
    Offensive lineman Troy Fautanu of Washington participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 21: Miami Dolphins — DE Chop Robinson, Penn State
  • Chop Robinson
    Defensive end Chop Robinson of Penn State participates in the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Getty Images
  • No. 22: Philadelphia Eagles  — CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
  • Quinyon Mitchell
    Quinyon Mitchell poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected 22nd overall by the Philadelphia Eagles during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Getty Images
  • No. 23: Jacksonville Jaguars — WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
  • Brian Thomas Jr.
    Brian Thomas Jr. arrives to the 2024 NFL Draft at the Fox Theatre on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton / Getty Images
  • No. 24: Detroit Lions — CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama (via trade with Cowboys)
  • Terrion Arnold
    Terrion Arnold of the Alabama Crimson Tide arrives to the 2024 NFL Draft at the Fox Theatre on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton / Getty Images
  • No. 25: Green Bay Packers — OT Jordan Morgan, Arizona
  • Jordan Morgan
    Arizona offensive lineman Jordan Morgan answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on March 2, 2024, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
  • No. 26: Tampa Bay Buccaneers — OL Graham Barton, Duke
  • Graham Barton
    Graham Barton of the Duke Blue Devils walks off the field in the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Cardinal Stadium on Oct. 28, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky. Getty Images
  • No. 27: Arizona Cardinals — DL Darius Robinson, Missouri
  • Darius Robinson
    Darius Robinson arrives to the 2024 NFL Draft at the Fox Theatre on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton / Getty Images
  • No. 28: Kansas City Chiefs — WR Xavier Worthy, Texas (via trade with Bills)
  • Xavier Worthy
    Xavier Worthy of Texas sets the NFL Scouting Combine 40-yard dash record at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kara Durrette / Getty Images
  • No. 29: Dallas Cowboys — OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma 
  • Tyler Guyton
    Offensive lineman Tyler Guyton of Oklahoma during the American Team practice for the Reese's Senior Bowl on Jan. 31, 2024, at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
  • No. 30: Baltimore Ravens — CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
  • Nate Wiggins
    Nate Wiggins of Clemson runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 1, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 31: San Francisco 49ers — WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida
  • Ricky Pearsall
    Ricky Pearsall #WO23 of Florida participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images
  • No. 32: Carolina Panthers — WR Xavier Legette, South Carolina (via trade with the Bills)
  • Xavier Legette
    Xavier Legette of South Carolina participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Getty Images

Detroit Lions select Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold after trade in Round 1 of 2024 NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - The Detroit Lions selected Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold on Thursday in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

This comes moments after the Lions traded their No. 29 overall spot for the Dallas Cowboys' No. 24 spot.  Detroit also received a 2025 seventh-round pick, while the Cowboys received Detroit's first-rounder plus a third-round pick in this year's draft (73rd overall).

Arnold was one of 13 NFL prospects who attended the draft in person in Detroit, with Lions fans immediately welcoming him after the announcement.

"Arnold possesses average size but plays with a desired level of aggression and competitiveness in both phases of his job," according to his NFL profile. "He's fast and agile to match up against a variety of receiver flavors on the outside or in the slot. Arnold could squeeze routes tighter from off coverages and limit the yards after catch with a slightly different approach."

Welcome home, @ArnoldTerrion pic.twitter.com/q61D7Sjwgu

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 26, 2024

He joins a mix of newcomers and holdovers at the cornerback spot. Detroit traded for Tampa Bay's Carlton Davis III in March and signed Amik Robertson as a free agent. Robertson spent the past four seasons with Las Vegas.

The Lions also have Emmanuel Moseley and Kindle Vindor at the position. Detroit released former starter Cameron Sutton after he was accused of domestic violence.

The Lions own five more picks heading into the second day of the draft, including the 29th selection in the second round (61st overall).


Chicago Bears draft USC's Caleb Williams No. 1 overall in NFL Draft

DETROIT (CBS) -- The Chicago Bears made it official and drafted USC's Caleb Williams first overall on Thursday night in the opening round of the NFL Draft, a move that many hope will finally deliver the team's quarterback of the future.

It's a decision that has been widely seen as a virtual lock, especially after the Bears traded away Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a sixth-round pick after three frustrating years in Chicago. It's just the fourth time the Bears have drafted a Heisman Trophy winner.

Williams has drawn comparisons to Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes due to his ability to make all sorts of throws at a myriad of angles.

Utah USC Football
Southern California quarterback Caleb Williams passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, in Los Angeles. Mark J. Terrill / AP

"He's a good decisionmaker overall," said Charles Davis, a CBS NFL Analyst. "That Notre Dame game, I think, was an aberration this year, but boy, accurate with the football, goes in the right places. There's just a maturity about him on the field."

Williams said he has been working to this moment, and waiting on this moment for a dozen years. CBS 2 asked an emotional Williams if this night could have gone any better for him.

"I didn't think that I was going to drop any tears, and I definitely didn't think that I was going to be roaring and yelling. Unless it's game day, I tend to keep it very mellow; very chill, and so all of that came out of nowhere – pure raw emotion about the moment," he said.

Williams is well aware of the significance of being the first No. 1 Bears draft pick fan in 77 years, and what the Bears fan base been through. But he is not consumed by pressure.

"I'm ready. I don't think the pressure's a thing as long as I prepare the way that I need to - you know, mentally, physically and spiritually preparing the way that I need to on and off the field," he said. "I've been the same guy every day when I walk into the facility, or I walk out. And so if I control the controllables, and do my job, we're going to go out there and win a lot of games and have a lot of fun."

Williams won the Heisman Trophy as a sophomore at USC in 2022 when he passed for more than 4,500 yards and 42 touchdowns, rushing for another 10 touchdowns. While the 6-foot-1, 216-pound Williams had what many considered a down year in 2023, he still finished his career with a 66.9% completion percentage.

The last time the Bears chose a player first overall in the college player draft was 1947, when the team took Oklahoma A&M halfback Bob Fenimore. He played just one NFL season, appearing in 10 games for the Bears, before returning to Oklahoma to work for an insurance company.

AP Midseason All-America Football
FILE - Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze makes a catch against Oregon during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, in Seattle. Odunze has been selected to The Associated Press midseason All-America team, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. Lindsey Wasson / AP

Bears pick WR Rome Odunze at No. 9

Just a few picks later, the Bears added to the offense around Williams by picking Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze at No. 9 overall.

Several mock drafts predicted the Bears would pick Odunze to add to the receiving group that includes DJ Moore and Keenan Allen.

At Washington, Odunze earned First-Team AP All-American and First-Team All-PAC 12 honors and was a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award for the nation's top wide receiver. In 2023, he led the nation with 1,640 receiving yards, a school record.

The 6-foot-3, 215-pound wideout ran a 4.45 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Scouts have pegged him as flashing superior ball skills and body control in the air. He's even drawn comparisons, especially with his large frame and catching ability, to NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald and former Bears wideout Allen Robinson.

After the first round, the Bears won't be picking again until the third round at pick No. 75 and then pick No. 122 in the fourth round. General manager Ryan Poles said he's OK with only having four picks entering this draft because he feels the Bears have a roster that doesn't have a lot of holes.

jj-mccarthy.jpg
J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines signals the bench in the first half while playing the Hawaii Warriors at Michigan Stadium on September 10, 2022 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Other draft news and notes

Michigan quarterback and Nazareth Academy alum J.J. McCarthy was taken 10th overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

McCarthy led the Wolverines to an undefeated season that ended with a national championship with a 34-13 win over the Washington Huskies. He finished his career in Ann Arbor with a 27-1 record as a starter.

McCarthy's championship experience didn't start at Michigan. He made three state championship appearances at Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park and won the IHSA Class 7A title as a sophomore in 2018. He finished up his high school career in Florida at IMG Academy.

His former coaches have praised his abilities and potential to succeed at the next level.

"He's just so mature – I mean, you saw like, he does his mental focus and all the things that he does before the game. I mean, he reads books on Navy SEALs and meditation," said Greg Holcomb, McCarthy's longtime personal quarterbacks coach. "I think he is the best quarterback to come through Michigan, and I think you know, he's got a ton of potential in front of him."


Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy is heading to Minnesota

(CBS DETROIT) - Michigan football quarterback J.J. McCarthy is starting his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings after being selected No. 10 in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

McCarthy, who spent three seasons with the Wolverines, completed his college career with a championship win under former coach Jim Harbaugh, who is now head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers.

"That's where he wanted to go. That's where he had his heart set. I'm just so happy for him," said Harbaugh. "I love him like a son. I was praying and pulling for it to work out the way he wanted it to work out, and the stars aligned. Minnesota got themselves a great player."

He was widely seen as the most pro-ready of all the prospects, thanks to his combination of leadership, intelligence and toughness. Still, there's no guarantee the Vikings got the right guy, given the track record across the NFL of success by first-round quarterbacks is essentially a coin-flip proposition.

Dreams come true for @jjmccarthy09. We're so proud of you!

📺 2024 #NFLDraft – April 25-27 on NFL Network/ESPN/ABC.#ProBlue pic.twitter.com/9Hl9JSsSMN

— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) April 26, 2024

Minnesota selected the 21-year-old after a trade between the Vikings and the New York Jets pushed the team from the No. 11 overall spot to No. 10.

"His ball placement and timing need to improve to help mitigate an average operation time due to a windup release," according to McCarthy's NFL profile. "McCarthy doesn't seek to play out of structure but is fairly consistent at making positive plays when it happens and ramps up his focus late in games and on third downs. He is confident and seems to have the ability to take slights and digest it as competitive fuel."  

McCarthy is the first player from Michigan selected in the 2024 draft and the fifth quarterback in the first round. He is the first quarterback selected in the first round by the Vikings since Teddy Bridgewater in 2014.


2024 NFL Draft in Detroit gives players a chance to flaunt their style on the red carpet

The NFL draft gives players a chance to flaunt their style and many took advantage with custom-made suits.

A few hours before Quinyon Mitchell hit the red carpet Thursday in the shadow of the Fox Theatre, the former Toledo cornerback was getting his fit right.

Mitchell led two Baynes Baker representatives and a personal shopper to his Detroit hotel room, where he tried on his custom-made black silk tuxedo with his name embroidered on the inside of the jacket.

After slipping on his Prada shoes, Mitchell invited his family to come up to his room for their feedback, which was overwhelmingly positive.

"I want to look good," Mitchell told The Associated Press with a laugh when asked about how he landed on the look.

Baynes Baker co-founder Ravi Punn fitted Mitchell and also created a suit for Drake Maye that the former North Carolina quarterback plans to wear Friday.

Punn said Mitchell's look exudes confidence.

"It fits great," said Punn, who works with Ethan Weisman of Pantheon Limited to design suits and fits for players. "Everybody's going to be complimenting him all night. That just adds to everything."

Mitchell and Maye were among the 13 first-round prospects to accept invitations to attend the draft. All of them had a chance to walk the red carpet along Woodward Avenue, just up the street from the site of the draft at Campus Martius Park, a few hours before the first pick was announced.

J.J. McCarthy was not a part of the festivities in the Motor City, but still had Alo Yoga make a custom charcoal gray suit.

A day before the draft, Caleb Williams was not very forthcoming about his look. Williams would only reveal he would be wearing black boots.

"I just finished my suit alterations and everything," Williams said. "I did a couple fittings. I did a couple drawings and things like that."

Maye, meanwhile, did acknowledge his khaki suit with North Carolina blue accents was exactly what he was looking for.

"I keep it simple with my suit," he said. "I wear something North Carolina — represent — just because I love that school."


Michigan's quarterback battle among many in Big Ten that will ramp up in fall

Quarterback discussions always dominate spring football, never more than this year in the Big Ten with transfers coming and going and only a handful of starters returning.

Just four of the 14 teams — and two of the four from the Pac-12 that join the conference in August — appear set at the position.

Defending national champion Michigan will go into preseason practice with a three-man competition to replace J.J. McCarthy. Alex Orji and Davis Warren were the starters in the spring game last Saturday. Jack Tuttle, granted a seventh year of eligibility, missed the spring while recovering from an injury.

"He'll be in it," first-year coach Sherrone Moore said. "We talked about this as a team, as a staff — the dudes that he backed up are Michael Penix (at Indiana) and J.J. McCarthy. So he's got talent and we'll see what happens when he gets in fall camp."

Kansas State transfer Will Howard and Devin Brown are the front-runners to take over at Ohio State for Kyle McCord, who transferred to Syracuse.

Iowa and Northwestern face major challenges. The Hawkeyes' Cade McNamara continues to recover from a knee injury and was extremely limited in the spring, and the man who replaced him in October, Deacon Hill, entered the transfer portal Monday. The Wildcats also took a hit when 2023 starter Brendan Sullivan entered the portal on the same day.

At Michigan State, the assumption was that Aidan Chiles would be the guy when he transferred from Oregon State, the previous stop for first-year Spartans coach Jonathan Smith. But North Dakota transfer Tommy Schuster was sharp in the spring game and is making a push.

Maryland will decide between North Carolina State transfer MJ Morris and Billy Edwards Jr., who was the backup to the prolific Taulia Tagovailoa. Rutgers' battle is between 2023 starter Gavin Wimsatt and Minnesota transfer Athan Kaliakmanis, who played for offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca when Ciarrocca held same job with the Gophers.

Tyler Van Dyke, who started 28 games for Miami, and Braedyn Locke are dueling at Wisconsin. At Indiana, first-year coach Curt Cignetti will decide between Ohio transfer Kurtis Rourke and Tayven Jackson.

Nebraska coach Matt Rhule said he won't name a starter until the fall, but it would be a major surprise if it's not five-star freshman Dylan Raiola. He was the top national recruit among quarterbacks and has had a solid spring. Heinrich Haarberg is back, but the Cornhuskers put up the program's worst offensive numbers since the 1960s under his direction.

Illinois (Luke Altmyer), Minnesota (New Hampshire transfer Max Brosmer), Penn State (Drew Allar) and Purdue (Hudson Card) have their quarterback situations settled.

Notable moves in the transfer portal:

WR Jahmal Banks (Wake Forest to Nebraska), LB Jaishawn Barham (Maryland to Michigan), Brosmer (New Hampshire to Minnesota), Chiles (Oregon State to Michigan State), Julian Fleming (Ohio State to Penn State), Hill (Iowa to TBD), Howard (Kansas State to Ohio State), RB Quinshon Judkins (Mississippi to Ohio State), Kaliakmanis (Minnesota to Rutgers), WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith (Penn State to Auburn), RB Reggie Love (Illinois to Purdue), McCord (Ohio State to Syracuse), C Seth McLaughlin (Alabama to Ohio State), WR Tanner Miller (Oregon State to Michigan State), OL Kadyn Proctor (Iowa to Alabama), DE Nic Scourton (Purdue to Texas A&M), Sullivan (Northwestern to TBD), Chip Trayanum (Ohio State to Kentucky), TE Cael Vanderbush (Iowa to TBD).

The most significant injury of the spring was to Michigan S Rod Moore, who tore his ACL in practice March 25. He has started 27 games and made a late interception to seal the Wolverines' win over Ohio State in November. ... Iowa tight end Luke Lachey was full-go in spring and looked good, offensive coordinator Tim Lester said. Lachey, one of the top offensive players in the conference, broke his ankle in the third game and missed the rest of the season. ... RBs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen didn't play in Penn State's spring game because of what coach James Franklin called "bumps and bruises." ... RB Kyle Monangai and CB Robert Longerbeam missed the last week of Rutgers' spring practice with minor injuries. ... Wisconsin LB Aaron Witt will be out until fall after suffering an upper-body injury last week.

Minnesota once again will open with a Thursday night game, hosting North Carolina on Aug. 29. Eastern Illinois also visits Illinois that night.

Aug. 31: Fresno State at Michigan; Akron at Ohio State; Penn State at West Virginia; UConn at Maryland; Howard at Rutgers; Florida Atlantic at Michigan State; FIorida International at Indiana; Illinois State at Iowa; UTEP at Nebraska; Miami (Ohio) at Northwestern; Western Michigan at Wisconsin; Indiana State at Purdue.

Openers for Pac-12 teams entering the Big Ten, on Aug. 31: UCLA at Hawaii; Idaho at Oregon; Weber State at Washington. Sept. 1: Southern California vs. LSU, at Las Vegas.


2024 NFL Draft in Detroit. Who did the Lions draft? When will the Lions make their selections?

(CBS DETROIT) — One of the biggest events in the NFL year kicked off Thursday in downtown Detroit. Aside from community events happening in the area, many people are here to see who the teams will select in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Detroit Lions, who finished their 2023 season with a 12-5 record, selected Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold with the 24th overall pick in the first found Thursday. 

GUIDE: What fans should know about NFL Draft registration in Detroit, security, road closures and more

Here's what to know about this year's draft and the Lions' picks:

When will the NFL Draft start?

The 2024 NFL Draft is a three-day event scheduled from Thursday through Saturday. 

NFL Network analyst looks at Detroit Lions 2024 NFL Draft needs 01:03

Round 1 began at 8 p.m. on Thursday. The second day of the draft will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday and include the second and third rounds. The final four rounds will close out the final day of the draft, beginning at noon Saturday.

According to the NFL, there are a total of seven rounds in the draft, and each of the 32 teams is given a pick for every round. However, the teams have the option to trade their picks before and during the draft.

Each team has 10 minutes to make their selection in the first round, seven minutes for the second round, five minutes for the third, fourth, fifth and sixth rounds, and just four minutes for the seventh round.

MORE: Detroit Lions unveil 2024 modern uniforms, including black alternate

What is the Lions' 2024 pick order?

The Detroit Lions will have one pick in the first, second, fifth and seventh rounds and two picks in the sixth round. The team received a pick in the third round from Minnesota after the T.J. Hockenson trade. As a result of the trade, Detroit does not have a pick in the fourth round.

A LOOK BACK: Detroit Lions' newest players following 2023 NFL Draft

The Lions also traded their regular third-round pick to Tampa Bay thanks to the Carlton Davis trade and, in exchange, received a second sixth-round pick.

In a quick turn of events, the Detroit Lions traded their No. 29 pick in the first round to obtain the 24th pick from the Dallas Cowboys. In exchange, the Lions gave up their third-round pick (73rd overall) in the 2024 draft and obtained a seventh-round pick in the 2025 draft.

Here is the Lions draft schedule:

Thursday, April 25

Friday, April 26

  • Round 2: Pick 29 (No. 61 overall)

Saturday, April 27

  • Round 5: Pick 29 (No. 164 overall)
  • Round 6: Pick 25 (No. 201 overall from the Buccaneers)
  • Round 6: Pick 29 (No. 205 overall)
  • Round 7: Pick 29 (No. 249 overall)

How are draft picks decided?

The picks are given based on success from the most recent season, starting with the team with the worst record. The first 32 picks are based on whether the team made it to the playoffs.

Teams that didn't advance are given overall pick Nos. 1 through 20. The teams that went on to the playoffs will get overall picks 21-32, based on where they finished in the playoffs.

The two teams that lost in the conference championship round will get picks 29 and 30. Thus, the Lions received the No. 29 pick because they lost in the NFC Championship. 

Some teams may also receive a compensatory pick, which goes to teams that lost free agents. This year, the Lions did not receive a compensatory pick.


Detroit Lions Fan Experience ready for kickoff during 2024 NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - As the 2024 NFL Draft inches closer, Detroit Lions fans are in for a treat.

The 5,400-square-foot Lions fan experience at Hart Plaza is bringing Ford Field to the heart of the NFL footprint to get fans pumped for the draft as well as the upcoming football season.

lions-experience-1.png
CBS Detroit

"I'm ecstatic. This has been a labor of love," said Emily Griffin, Detroit Lions Senior Vice President of Marketing and Brand. "We have the best fans in the NFL. We know that they're so excited and so proud to see their city on the grand stage and see the football universe converge here, and so if we can give them an awesome time in here, it will be a success, and we're looking forward to it."

As fans walk in, they will be introduced like Lions football players on game days on Sundays.

lions-experience-3.png
CBS Detroit

Photo opportunities surround the experience, and there are even interactive games for fans to play. There is even a Dan Campbell Zoltar machine that reads your fortune.

Fans will also get an up-close and personal glimpse at the team's new uniforms, unveiled last week, as well as a friendly visit from former Lions players and Detroit Lions cheerleaders.

lions-experience-2.png
CBS Detroit

"Over three days, we expect over 20,000 fans to come to downtown Detroit and to give them an opportunity to feel what it's like to be at the stadium on game day when they may not be able to," Griffin said. 

This Detroit Lions fan experience is free for everyone. Fans can register or download the NFL OnePass app

The event runs Thursday and Friday from noon to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.


Corktown businesses gear up for NFL Draft watch party, offering free shuttle to footprint

(CBS DETROIT) – Businesses in Corktown are gearing up to welcome visitors during the NFL Draft that kicks off at noon on Thursday.

Many of the events taking place at the Corner Ballpark during the three-day event will be for kids, but go down Michigan Avenue, and there will be plenty for the adults to do. 

"If you want all the action but a little bit less chaos, Corktown is the place to come," said Bob Roberts, co-owner of McShane's Irish Pub and president of the Corktown Business Association.

corktown-nfl-draft.jpg
Andres Gutierrez/CBS Detroit

When the Corktown Business Association first learned the NFL Draft was going to happen less than a mile away, they all pitched in to put up six tents for watch parties along Michigan Avenue    

"We're pretty confident that in three days, we'll do a month's worth of sales," Roberts said. 

Those coming to Corktown can park in one of the 1,500 spots at the garage on Church and Trumbull streets, caddy-corner from McShane's Irish Pub.

The Corktown Business Association is providing a free shuttle between the tents to Michigan and Cass.

Down the street at Nemo's, they're bracing for a surge. 

"We don't know what to expect because when we have, like St. Patrick's Day or Opening Day, we know what to expect. We know. But this is so big that we don't really know. But we're ready," said Sandy Simmons, Manager at Nemo's.

Small businesses along the corridor are planning to take advantage of all the foot traffic. 

At Detroit Dye House, they've been filling the store with Honolulu blue.

"We've never been a sports company, but it's starting to evolve into that, and it's been really fun because of the NFL coming here," said Alexandra Chevillet, co-owner of Detroit Dye House.

During the three-day event, Chevillet will set up a dye walk-up station outside the store where you can design your own pair of socks. If you do an extra pair, they'll donate it to one of the city's homeless shelters. 

"What we do is we get to make art for a living, and the fact that we get to share with the community is incredible. So we're really looking forward to people coming and getting to feel that feeling for just a brief moment and have it be lasting until they leave, and then they're talking about it, and they have to come back and visit," Chevillet said. 

The feeling is mutual at "All Things Marketplace," where owner Jennyer Crawford-Williams is hosting a block party so other small businesses can get exposure 

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for small businesses to shine to all of these people coming in from out of town. So it means a lot to me and all of the small businesses that we represent because we want to give a very good representation and just show everyone how great we are," Crawford-Williams said. 

Shuttle stops:

  • Rosa Parks Transit Center: 1310 Cass Ave. (Dropoff point for the draft)
  • Lager House: 1254 Michigan Ave.
  • Nemo's Bar: 1384 Michigan Ave.
  • McShane's Irish and Whiskey Pub: 1460 Michigan Ave.
  • Bobcat Bonnie's: 1800 Michigan Ave.
  • Gaelic League Irish American Club: 2068 Michigan Ave.
  • Mercury Burger & Bar: 2163 Michigan Ave.
  • Cork & Gabel: 2415 Michigan Ave.
  • Batch Brewing Company: 1400 Porter St.

Interactive Map: https://www.corktowndetroit.biz/corktown-nfl-draft

Viewing tents with TVs:

  • McShane's Irish and Whiskey Pub: 1460 Michigan Ave.
  • Nemo's Bar: 1384 Michigan Ave.
  • Mercury Burger & Bar: 2163 Michigan Ave.
  • Bobcat Bonnie's: 1800 Michigan Ave.
  • Lager House:1254 Michigan Ave.
  • Gaelic League Irish American Club: 2068 Michigan Ave.

For more information and specials, visit the Corktown Business Association website.


What fans should do if their child gets lost during the NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - The NFL Draft is expected to bring thousands of visitors to Detroit this weekend, and the Detroit Police Department has put together a plan for if children get separated from their parents or guardians during the event.

What to do if children get lost during NFL Draft

If a child gets lost, people should report it to an NFL Draft employee, a police officer, or the nearest Fan Services tent.

Here's a list of where the Fan Services tents will be located: 

  • Inside Entry 1 on Jefferson Avenue
  • Near the NFL Shop at Woodward and Michigan Avenues
  • Inside Entry 3 near the Super Bowl rings display
  • At Draft Theater Services on Farmer Street

Registration, security and more for NFL Draft 

If you're heading to Detroit for the NFL Draft, be sure to check out how to register to attend the event, the security procedures, what items are prohibited and more to be prepared. 

Detroit police gear up for NFL Draft 02:47

Transportation for NFL Draft

Due to all the road closures in effect for the draft, the city released different transportation options for visitors to get around the city this weekend. 

Options include park-and-ride shuttles, the Detroit People Mover, and the QLINE.

Transportation options for the 2024 NFL Draft 02:32

Things to do in Detroit while you're in town for the NFL Draft

(CBS DETROIT) - The NFL Draft is expected to bring thousands of visitors to Detroit this weekend, and while it's the main event, there are plenty of other things the city has to offer. 

So, if you're looking for something to do outside of the draft, here's a list: 

Visit Belle Isle

Belle Isle is a 982-acre island in the Detroit River. Since 2014, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has operated Belle Isle as a state park as part of a 30-year lease with the city of Detroit. 

Visitors can check out the Belle Isle Aquarium, Belle Isle Nature Center, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. 

It's also a great place to walk around and take in the city, as it provides a great view of the Detroit skyline. 

Take a ride on the Detroit People Mover

If you're staying in downtown Detroit for the draft, you can probably walk to the events, but taking a ride on the Detroit People Mover is still a fun experience. 

The Detroit People Mover operates in a one-way, nearly 3-mile loop in downtown Detroit. From 7 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, through midnight on Sunday, April 28, the People Mover will operate 24 hours a day. 

It will be free to ride, and the stations closest to NFL Draft entry locations are the Financial District and Millender Center stops. 

Grab a slice (or a pie) of Detroit-style pizza

While Detroit-style pizza can be found across the country, it only makes sense to try the square-shaped pizza in its birthplace. 

The pizza, known for its crusty, cheesy corners, originated in 1946 at Buddy's Rendezvous Pizzeria on Six Mile in Detroit. 

There is a Buddy's location at 1565 Broadway St. in downtown Detroit. There are several places to get Detroit-style pizza in the city, though, including Michigan & Trumbull, Pie Sci and Grandma Bob's. Two other places outside of the city but still in Metro Detroit, known for having good Detroit-style pizza, are Green Lantern in Madison Heights and Loui's Pizza in Hazel Park. 

And just to add in one more place, because Detroit's thriving pizza scene provides many options for recommendations, check out Supino Pizzeria for New York-style pizza if that's more your vibe. You can visit Supino's Eastern Market location for take-out or dine-in at its New Center location. 

Coney dogs and Coney Islands

While we're on the topic of food, if you're visiting Detroit, you might want to stop at a coney island to grab a bite to eat. There are several staples in and around the city, including Kerby's, Leo's, National, Grandy's, and more, that serve a variety of foods, such as breakfast items, Greek salads, pita wraps, sandwiches and saganaki, and are open early and late, with some open 24/7. 

Coney Islands also serve coney dogs, and if you're in Detroit for the draft, you can grab one at American or Lafayette (or both to participate in the longtime debate over which Coney Island serves a better coney dog). 

Detroit Institute of Arts 

The Detroit Institute of Arts, or DIA, is a museum located in the Midtown neighborhood of Detroit. Its collection is among the top six across the country, with more than 65,000 pieces of work. 

Last month, the DIA was named the best art museum in the United States in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

Motown Museum

The Motown Museum is where Berry Gordy started Motown Records in 1959. The museum is located in the original headquarters and recording studio for Motown Records and has a variety of artifacts, including photos, costumes and more.

Visit the museum's website for all the specific information on admission prices and hours. 

Where to dance the night away 

If you're looking to get some dancing in while you're in town for the draft, Detroit has plenty of options for you. Detroit is also known as the birthplace of techno music, and you can find tributes to its origin throughout the city.

On Friday, the Saunderson Brothers, the sons of Detroit techno and house pioneer Kevin Saunderson, will have a show at Big Pink. 

Marble Bar is also hosting a 12-hour party on Saturday, April 27, with a lineup of artists, including Shigeto, a Detroit favorite. Other popular spots for dancing include Spot Lite, TV Lounge, Temple Bar and SpkrBox. 

NFL Draft Details 

While you're having fun checking out all that the city has to offer, be sure to check out our list of important information to know for the NFL Draft. It includes information about registration, security procedures, road closures, transportation and more! 


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