Russ Brown’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft 2.0 for the Detroit Lions

Round 1, Pick 28: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College

At pick 28, the Lions are projected to address their edge-rushing needs with Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College. The Lions have been searching for a true impact pass rusher, and Ezeiruaku fits the mold. His combination of speed and power, along with his ability to set the edge, makes him a perfect complement to the other defensive pieces the Lions have been developing. With the NFC North being filled with solid quarterbacks like Justin Fields and Kirk Cousins, having a consistent pass rusher is crucial for success in the division. Ezeiruaku’s long arms and athleticism make him a nightmare for offensive tackles, and he could develop into a double-digit sack producer for Detroit.

Round 2, Pick 40: Kevin Winston Jr., S, Penn State

In the second round, the Lions focus on the secondary with Kevin Winston Jr., a safety from Penn State. The Lions’ defense has shown flashes but needs to improve in coverage and overall consistency. Winston is an excellent athlete who can line up in multiple spots across the secondary and has a knack for making plays on the ball. His leadership qualities and physical style of play would bolster the Lions’ defensive backfield. Detroit’s current safety room lacks a true ball hawk, and Winston could come in and contribute immediately as a starter, whether it’s at safety or in a hybrid role.

Round 3, Pick 72: Joshua Farmer, DL, Florida State

With their third-round pick, the Lions grab Joshua Farmer, a defensive lineman from Florida State. The Lions are aiming to further strengthen their front seven, and Farmer adds depth and versatility. He has great potential as a run-stuffer, but his ability to rush the passer from the interior is what makes him appealing. The Lions’ defensive line has been solid, but adding depth behind key players like Alim McNeill and Isaiah Buggs will be important for long-term success. Farmer could contribute right away as a rotational piece on the line, learning behind veterans and eventually becoming a starter.

Round 4, Pick 104: Seth McLaughlin, IOL, Alabama

As the Lions look to bolster their offensive line, Seth McLaughlin from Alabama makes a lot of sense. McLaughlin is a powerful and technically sound interior lineman who can play both guard and center. The Lions’ offensive line is among the best in the league, but depth and versatility are always valuable. McLaughlin has the potential to provide immediate depth and could compete for a starting role in the future. He’s known for his ability to create movement in the running game, which fits perfectly with the Lions’ run-heavy offensive scheme. If McLaughlin can continue to develop, he could be a key part of the Lions’ offensive line for years to come.

Round 6, Pick 168: Keandre Lambert-Smith, WR, Auburn

In the sixth round, Detroit looks to improve their receiving corps with Keandre Lambert-Smith from Auburn. While the Lions currently have a solid receiving group with Amon-Ra St. Brown leading the charge, adding a speed threat like Lambert-Smith could open up the offense even more. The Lions’ offensive scheme is focused on vertical threats and creating big plays, and Lambert-Smith’s quickness and ability to stretch the field could be an invaluable addition to this offense. He might not step in and start immediately but could develop into a deep-threat weapon in the future.

Round 7, Pick 230: Jackson Hawes, TE, Georgia Tech

With their first pick in the seventh round, the Lions add Jackson Hawes, a tight end from Georgia Tech. Hawes is a developmental prospect with good size and blocking ability but will need time to refine his route running and pass-catching skills. Tight end is a position the Lions could use some depth in, especially behind their star tight end, Sam LaPorta. Hawes could come in and learn behind LaPorta, contributing in the blocking game while developing into a more well-rounded threat as a receiver down the road.

Round 7, Pick 246: Alijah Huzzie, CB, North Carolina

With their final pick of the draft, the Lions address the cornerback position by selecting Alijah Huzzie from North Carolina. Cornerback depth has been a recurring theme for the Lions in recent drafts, and Huzzie could add more competition to the room. He has shown strong coverage skills and is known for his ball skills, which could be a valuable asset to the Lions’ defense. While he may not come in and start immediately, Huzzie offers depth and could develop into a solid backup or even a future starter if he improves his consistency.

Overall Strategy and Conclusion

This mock draft is a reflection of the Detroit Lions’ needs across both sides of the ball. The selections made address immediate needs, such as pass-rushing help and secondary reinforcement, while also preparing for the future with younger prospects who could develop into key contributors. The Lions are in a position where they have built a competitive roster and are looking to solidify their team’s depth for a long-term championship push.

The selections also reflect the team’s commitment to building both sides of the ball, balancing the offense and defense while also adding players who fit Detroit’s physical, hard-nosed playing style. The Lions have a clear plan in place and are continuing to draft well with an eye on future success.

If these selections come to fruition, the Lions could find themselves with a defense that has the tools to compete with some of the best in the NFL, while also having an offense that continues to develop and create big plays. With a young, talented roster and a strong draft class, the Detroit Lions are in great shape for the 2025 season and beyond.