As of April 22, 2025, there is no public record of Detroit Lions President Rod Wood making any statements trolling the Green Bay Packers over hosting the NFL Draft or their 3rd-place finish in the 2024 season. However, the spirited rivalry between the Lions and Packers was notably highlighted during the 2024 NFL Draft, particularly through a viral moment involving fans of both teams.
A Viral Draft Day Moment: Lions Fan Trolling Packers Fan
During the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers selected offensive tackle Jordan Morgan with the 25th overall pick. This choice surprised many Packers fans who had anticipated the selection of other prospects like Cooper DeJean. One such fan, visibly shocked by the pick, was captured on ESPN’s broadcast. Seated next to him was his friend, Kizito Katende, a Detroit Lions fan, who couldn’t help but laugh at his friend’s dismay. The moment quickly went viral, symbolizing the playful yet intense rivalry between the two NFC North teams.
Katende later shared that his friend had been hoping for the Packers to draft DeJean all day. When that didn’t happen, Katende’s reaction was one of genuine amusement, stating, “I had to just laugh at him, you know, because he was begging for that guy for like literally all day and they didn’t end up getting him.”
Kerby Joseph’s Heartfelt Gesture
The viral clip caught the attention of Lions safety Kerby Joseph, who was entertained by the interaction. Joseph reached out on social media, expressing his desire to connect with the Lions fan who had brought him laughter during the draft. He tweeted, “Whoever that lion fan is that was laughing at that Green Bay fan get at me bro I got sum for u.”
True to his word, Joseph sent Katende a pair of game-used cleats and a signed card. The card read, “Wassup bro!! you made me laugh draft night LOL So here is my cleats I caught my first and second career INT from AROD!!! Much Love… JKERB.”
The Broader Context: Lions’ Ascendancy in the NFC North
The 2024 season marked a significant shift in the NFC North dynamics. The Detroit Lions clinched the division title, finishing ahead of the Packers, who ended the season in third place. This achievement was a testament to the Lions’ growth and the effective leadership of their front office, including President Rod Wood.
Under Wood’s tenure, the Lions have made strategic decisions that have propelled the team forward. Hosting the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit was a significant milestone, showcasing the city’s passion for football and its capability to host major NFL events.
Conclusion
While there is no evidence of Rod Wood directly trolling the Packers over their draft hosting duties or their 2024 season finish, the events surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft highlighted the vibrant rivalry between the Lions and Packers. The playful interactions between fans, amplified by players like Kerby Joseph, underscore the deep-rooted passion and camaraderie that define the NFL community.
