2025 NFL mock draft roundup: Who the Lions are projected to pick following the combine

Lions’ Current Roster Breakdown:

The Lions’ 2024 season marked a significant shift toward competitiveness, but they are still not quite where they need to be in terms of deep postseason runs. They’re building a balanced offense under Jared Goff, but their defense still has weaknesses to address, particularly in pass rushing and secondary help.

Key Strengths:

1. Quarterback: Jared Goff has proven himself as a solid starting quarterback. With Goff playing at a high level, the Lions aren’t in the market for a quarterback early in the draft, which allows them to focus on other areas.
2. Running Back: Jahmyr Gibbs, drafted last season, has proven to be dynamic, with his playmaking abilities complementing the offense.
3. Wide Receiver: The addition of players like Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown bolsters their receiving core, though they could still use another weapon to deepen the passing attack.

Key Weaknesses:

1. Defensive Line/Edge Rusher: While Aidan Hutchinson is a standout, the Lions need another elite pass rusher to complement him. Adding another high-impact defensive player could significantly improve their ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt the offensive line.
2. Secondary: Although their secondary has been serviceable, the Lions are still susceptible to big plays. With the rise of elite quarterbacks in the NFC, improving the cornerback and safety positions is critical.
3. Offensive Line Depth: While Detroit’s starting offensive line is formidable, depth could be an issue. They could also look to add a high-upside player to develop and serve as a future starter.

Lions’ Key Draft Picks:

As mentioned, the Lions hold the 17th overall pick and several other selections that allow them to address a variety of positions. With the Combine now complete, the picture is getting clearer. Let’s look at who could potentially be available when the Lions make their picks.

1st Round: Focus on Edge Rusher/Defensive Playmaker

The first round is likely where the Lions will make their biggest splash, and the post-Combine landscape has reinforced the idea that Detroit will prioritize defense. Two names consistently rising up the boards are:

• Jihaad Campbell (LB, Alabama): Though primarily a linebacker, Campbell has shown the ability to rush the passer effectively. His versatility makes him an ideal candidate for the Lions, who could use a playmaking linebacker who can cover and also generate pressure on the quarterback. Campbell’s athleticism, speed, and smarts would give Detroit more flexibility on defense, adding another dimension to what’s already a solid defensive front.
• Josaiah Stewart (EDGE, Michigan): A local product, Stewart is one of the most intriguing edge rushers in the draft. His combination of strength, speed, and technique gives him the tools to make an immediate impact in the NFL. The Lions could use his high motor and ability to get after quarterbacks to complement Hutchinson. Stewart also offers depth behind the Lions’ other pass rushers, creating a rotation that could terrorize opposing offenses. Michigan’s defensive system has already prepared him for a seamless transition into a pro-style defense, and he would immediately be a top candidate to develop into a long-term starter for Detroit.
• Nic Scourton (EDGE, Texas A&M): Another edge rusher gaining traction as a solid first-round pick is Scourton. He has shown great explosiveness, quickness, and a refined pass-rushing technique. He stands out as someone who could develop quickly under the right coaching staff, and given the Lions’ needs in this area, Scourton could be a great fit to bolster the edge and provide another force in their defense.

2nd Round: Defensive Back or Offensive Line Help

The Lions are also positioned well in the second round to continue adding to their defense. With the 49th pick in the second round, there are several ways they could go. If they haven’t taken a secondary player in the first round, this could be the spot to address the cornerback or safety position.

• Darien Porter (CB, Iowa State): One of the more intriguing cornerback prospects, Porter stood out at the Combine for his length and ability to close on passes. The Lions could use an additional corner to help lock down high-flying NFC offenses. Porter’s ball skills and ability to make plays in the air would help shore up Detroit’s secondary.
• Brock Vandervort (CB, Notre Dame): Another solid cornerback option would be Vandervort, who has the skills to cover top wide receivers and help shore up Detroit’s pass defense. Notre Dame’s defensive system has helped Vandervort develop solid technique and quick reactions to opposing routes. He could immediately contribute as a rotational piece or even challenge for a starting spot.

On the offensive line front, Detroit could also add to their depth and versatility. As mentioned earlier, Wyatt Milum (OT, West Virginia) is a name to watch in the second round. His consistency and ability to play both guard and tackle would give the Lions an important backup who can step in if needed.

3rd Round: Wide Receiver or Developmental Edge Rusher

By the third round, the Lions may look to add depth at wide receiver or find another high-upside developmental player.

• Pat Bryant (WR, Illinois): Bryant has the physical tools to succeed at the next level, showing elite speed and route-running ability during the Combine. The Lions could look for a third receiver to complement St. Brown and Williams, and Bryant’s development could give the offense another explosive option to stretch the field and add big-play ability.
• Tyree Nelson (WR, Florida State): A big-play receiver who can challenge defenses down the field, Nelson had an impressive Combine showing and could offer the Lions a deep threat they need to round out their receiving corps. His speed and athleticism make him an intriguing option for the Lions to target in the third round.

Defensively, the Lions may want to add another edge rusher to develop behind their starting group. Someone like Jadon Bowens (EDGE, UConn) could be a valuable developmental piece who shows flashes of ability to get after the quarterback but might need some refinement.

Late Rounds: Depth and Special Teams Help

As the draft moves into the later rounds, the Lions will focus on adding depth across multiple positions. They might look at:

• Ja’Quan Frazier (LB, North Carolina): A linebacker who can contribute on special teams and provide depth at the position.
• Zayden Thomas (S, Syracuse): A safety who could add value on special teams and offer insurance for the secondary.

Additionally, the Lions might look for hidden gems who could make an impact in rotational roles, as their roster is already relatively strong, and they need quality depth to keep the team competitive.

The Detroit Lions are in an excellent position in the 2025 NFL Draft to continue building on their success. With the combination of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the Lions’ key to taking the next step will be bolstering their defense and addressing their offensive depth. The 2025 draft is likely to focus heavily on defensive playmakers like edge rushers and linebackers, while also considering a wide receiver to deepen their offensive weapons.

The first-round pick will be crucial, with edge rushers and versatile linebackers being prime targets. The second and third rounds will likely see additional help in the secondary or on the offensive line. Detroit has the potential to add players who can make immediate impacts, and with a focus on strategic needs, they will aim to continue their upward trajectory. With Brad Holmes at the helm, the Lions are positioned well for a successful 2025 season.