7-Round Detroit Lions mock draft with trade up in the first round, go get your guy

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7-Round Detroit Lions mock draft with trade up in the first round, go get your guy

​The Detroit Lions, coming off a franchise-best 15-2 regular season that ended in the divisional round of the playoffs, are poised to make strategic moves in the 2025 NFL Draft to address key areas and bolster their roster for a deeper postseason run. General Manager Brad Holmes has demonstrated a willingness to maneuver in the draft to secure top talent, and this year is no exception. In this comprehensive seven-round mock draft, we’ll explore a scenario where the Lions trade up in the first round to “go get their guy,” followed by selections aimed at strengthening both sides of the ball.​PFF

Trade Details:

The Lions hold the 29th overall pick in the first round. To move up, they engage in a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who hold the 17th overall pick. The trade details are as follows:​

  • Lions receive: 17th overall pick​

  • Jaguars receive: 29th overall pick, 73rd overall pick (3rd round), and a 2025 second-round pick​

This trade aligns with the draft value chart, with the Lions slightly overpaying to ensure they land their targeted player. ​SideLion Report

Round 1, Pick 17: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

By trading up to the 17th spot, the Lions select Quinyon Mitchell, a standout cornerback from Toledo. Over his final three seasons at Toledo, Mitchell amassed 45 pass breakups, including 37 in the last two seasons. His performance at the Senior Bowl dispelled any concerns about the level of competition he faced in college, and his impressive combine metrics—standing 6-foot and 195 pounds, with a 4.33-second 40-yard dash—underscore his athleticism. Mitchell’s ability to disrupt opposing passing games makes him an ideal fit for the Lions’ defense, addressing a critical need in the secondary. ​SideLion Report+1PFF+1

Round 2, Pick 61: Josaiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan

With their second-round pick, the Lions bolster their pass rush by selecting Josaiah Stewart from Michigan. Despite measuring just under 6-foot-1 and 248 pounds, Stewart’s production speaks volumes. In the 2024 season, he led the nation with a 48% win rate on true pass sets. His well-rounded skill set and relentless motor make him a valuable addition opposite Aidan Hutchinson, providing the Lions with a formidable pass-rushing duo. ​PFF

Round 4, Pick 131: Jah Joyner, EDGE, Minnesota

The Lions continue to fortify their defensive front by selecting Jah Joyner from Minnesota. At 6-foot-4 and 263 pounds, Joyner possesses the prototypical size for an NFL edge rusher. While his senior season saw a dip in production, his junior year showcased his potential with 10 sacks and a 23.3% win rate. Joyner’s physical attributes and previous performance suggest he can develop into a reliable rotational pass rusher. ​PFF

Round 6, Pick 195: Dylan Fairchild, G, Georgia

Addressing the offensive line, the Lions select Dylan Fairchild from Georgia. Over two seasons as a starter, Fairchild allowed just one sack and two quarterback hits, demonstrating consistency and reliability. His experience in a pro-style offense and ability to maintain a clean pocket make him a valuable depth piece with the potential to develop into a starter. ​Pride Of Detroit+1PFF+1PFF

Round 7, Pick 230: Teddye Buchanan, LB, California

In the seventh round, the Lions add depth to their linebacker corps with Teddye Buchanan from California. After transferring from UC Davis, Buchanan continued his productive play, limiting opposing quarterbacks to an 81.1 passer rating when targeted. His instincts and coverage abilities provide valuable depth and special teams potential. ​PFF

Round 7, Pick 246: Joey Hobert, WR, Texas State

With their final pick, the Lions select Joey Hobert, a wide receiver from Texas State. Hobert’s steady improvement throughout his career culminated in a senior season where he dropped only one of 75 catchable targets. His ability to generate yards after the catch and force missed tackles adds a dynamic element to the Lions’ receiving corps. ​PFF

Analysis:

By executing a strategic trade-up in the first round, the Lions secure a top-tier cornerback in Quinyon Mitchell, addressing a pressing need in their secondary. The subsequent selections focus on enhancing the pass rush and adding depth to both the offensive line and skill positions. This approach reflects a balanced strategy aimed at immediate impact and long-term development, positioning the Lions to build upon their recent success and make a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.​

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