Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes recently shared a funny — and very human — moment from his draft experience that fans will appreciate even more knowing how things turned out.
Barnes admitted that when the Lions selected Amon-Ra St. Brown in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, his immediate reaction was pure confusion. In his own words, Barnes said he was sitting there thinking, “I’m like, what the…?” — unsure what the pick meant and briefly wondering if something had gone wrong on his end.
At the time, Barnes was still processing his own draft situation, and hearing another name called created a split-second panic. But fast forward to today, and that moment has aged beautifully. St. Brown has become one of the faces of the franchise, a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver, and the emotional engine of Detroit’s offense.
Barnes’ story offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into how chaotic draft night can feel for players. Even future teammates don’t always know what’s coming, and emotions can swing wildly in seconds. What once felt like a scare ended up becoming one of the best draft decisions the Lions have made in years.
Looking back now, it’s hard not to laugh. That confusing moment helped bring together two key pieces of Detroit’s resurgence — one on defense, one on offense — both now staples of a team that has reclaimed its identity.
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“I’m Like, What the…”: Derrick Barnes Reveals His Honest Reaction to Lions Drafting Amon-Ra St. Brown
