The latest edition of the Detroit Lions Mock Draft Roundup has arrived, with a slightly unusual timing due to the start of the 2025 free agency period. This has led to some mock drafts being published before free agency and others afterward, with updated rosters taken into account. Despite the changes in the Lions’ roster, the projected picks for the team have seen minimal adjustments, suggesting that analysts believe Detroit’s needs remain largely the same.
Offensive Line
A few names have emerged as potential picks for the Lions’ offensive line. Tyler Booker from Alabama is seen as a good fit for Detroit, especially considering his “bully mentality,” which could help solidify the team’s offensive line after some recent injuries and changes in their coaching staff. Other names in consideration include Grey Zabel from North Dakota State and Donovan Jackson from Ohio State. Jackson, in particular, is viewed as a great culture fit, as he stepped up to play left tackle for Ohio State during their championship run. Given the Lions’ recent departure of Kevin Zeitler and Jonah Jackson, the team may look to bring in an interior lineman, and these three players could be strong options at pick No. 28.
Defensive Tackle
At defensive tackle, there is a strong focus on bolstering the defensive front. Kenneth Grant from Michigan is a prominent name in mock drafts, known for his run-stuffing abilities and potential to contribute to the pass rush. Other defensive tackle prospects include Derrick Harmon from Oregon, who is a versatile player with the ability to play multiple positions along the defensive front, and Tyleik Williams from Ohio State, noted for his disruptive run defense. With Roy Lopez signed and the contracts of DJ Reader and Lopez expiring soon, Detroit could still consider adding Grant to the mix. Harmon seems like a solid option regardless of free agency moves, while Williams’ run-stopping abilities make him an intriguing, though somewhat limited, first-round prospect.
Edge Rusher
The Lions are widely expected to focus on finding a long-term edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. Mykel Williams from Georgia, while unrefined in his production, is considered a candidate based on his size and strength. Mike Green from Marshall, who posted a strong PFF grade over the last two seasons, is also a potential pick. However, off-field issues could impact his draft stock. Other edge rusher candidates include Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M, known for his explosive athleticism, and Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College, a player who could immediately impact the Lions’ pass rush. Some of the other notable edge rushers linked to Detroit include James Pearce from Tennessee, Nic Scourton from Texas A&M, Jack Sawyer from Ohio State, and Landon Jackson from Arkansas. Jackson’s combination of strength and speed makes him an appealing choice to complement Hutchinson, while J.T. Tuimoloau from Ohio State is also viewed as a strong fit alongside Hutchinson, as he offers a powerful presence against both the run and pass.
Linebacker
Although Detroit signed linebacker Jack Campbell in the previous year’s draft, there was some buzz around the possibility of drafting Jihaad Campbell from Alabama. This projection was made before the Lions re-signed Derrick Barnes, but if Barnes had left, Jihaad Campbell could have filled the role of a second-level linebacker. With Malcolm Rodriguez already a weakside linebacker, adding Campbell would have provided strong depth for Detroit’s linebacker corps.
Defensive Backs
In the secondary, Shavon Revel Jr., a cornerback from East Carolina, has been mocked to Detroit despite recovering from a torn ACL. While his recovery may slow his start to the season, his agility, ball skills, and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect. The Lions are set with their starters at cornerback after swapping out Carlton Davis for D.J. Reed, but additional depth at the position could still be needed, particularly with a potential long-term investment in Revel.
Overall, the Lions’ draft decisions will likely center around bolstering their offensive and defensive fronts. While there have been some changes in their roster through free agency, Detroit’s needs are still clear, and the players being projected in mock drafts are expected to help fill those gaps.