As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams across the league are finalizing their strategies to address their most pressing needs. The Detroit Lions, a team with a dynamic roster on the rise, are no exception. While the Lions have a few clear priorities heading into the draft, one position that could see an intriguing pick later in the draft is running back. With the running back position becoming more devalued in recent years, it’s not unusual for teams to wait until Day 3 to select a player, and the Lions could find significant value in doing just that.
The Detroit Lions’ front office, led by general manager Brad Holmes, has established a reputation for finding talent not only in the first few rounds but also through mid-to-late-round picks. With a draft strategy built on taking the best available talent while addressing needs, the Lions could make a move for a running back if the value aligns.
The Lions’ offense has been one of the most exciting units in the NFL in recent seasons. Under head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the team has embraced a physical, high-tempo offense, relying heavily on the running game. The Lions’ success on the ground has been a key part of their offensive identity, especially with a pair of versatile playmakers in their backfield. Yet, despite the solid contributions from their running backs, there are questions about whether the Lions need more depth at the position or perhaps even a future successor to their current lead back.
Jamaal Williams, who was a fan favorite in Detroit, has since departed for a new opportunity with the New Orleans Saints. While his departure left a hole in the roster, the Lions still have talented backs like D’Andre Swift and David Montgomery. Swift has flashed his potential at times but has struggled to stay healthy, which has made the Lions hesitant to fully commit to him as a long-term solution. Montgomery, on the other hand, is a proven, physical back who excels at grinding out tough yards but doesn’t possess the game-breaking speed that some teams may covet.
Still, even with Swift and Montgomery on the roster, the Lions may decide that adding another running back, especially one who can complement the existing duo, would be beneficial. With so much talent in the running back class, there are several prospects who could be available on Day 3 who could offer immediate depth or contribute in a specialized role. These backs may not be first-round talents, but their skill sets could make them valuable pieces in the Lions’ scheme.
One of the main reasons the Lions could take a running back on Day 3 is due to the value the position holds in today’s NFL. In the past, running backs were routinely taken in the first or second rounds of the draft, but with the increasing use of running back committees and the emphasis on passing in today’s game, many teams are no longer willing to spend premium draft capital on the position. Instead, they’re focusing on grabbing high-potential players later in the draft, hoping to get a value pick that can provide a solid return on investment.
This trend has led to a deeper pool of running back talent available in the later rounds. In 2025, several running backs possess the traits needed to make an impact at the next level but may not have the elite traits that push them into the top two rounds. These players could be steals for teams willing to look beyond the obvious top prospects and take a chance on a Day 3 selection.
For the Lions, looking at these late-round options could make a lot of sense. With their current backfield somewhat uncertain, selecting a running back who can step in and make an immediate contribution could be a key move for depth and future stability. The Lions could target a player with the potential to eventually take over as the lead back or one who can excel in a specific role, such as third downs, goal-line situations, or in the passing game.
One of the advantages of waiting until Day 3 to take a running back is the opportunity to focus on the team’s other, higher-priority needs in the earlier rounds. The Lions have several areas to address, particularly along the defensive line, where they need to improve their pass rush and overall ability to stop the run. They also need to bolster their secondary, given the team’s struggles in pass defense during the 2024 season. With multiple key needs on defense and a solid group of offensive skill players, the Lions will likely opt to target impact players on the defensive side of the ball in the first few rounds. By waiting until Day 3 to grab a running back, they could still find value without sacrificing their defense-first strategy.
Another aspect to consider is the change in how teams view running backs. The development of dual-threat backs who can contribute both in the run and pass games has been an important trend in recent seasons. These versatile players who excel as receiving options out of the backfield have become invaluable to NFL offenses. A back who can catch passes, run between the tackles, and block effectively on third downs has significant value, especially for a team like the Lions, who rely on their offensive game plan to be unpredictable and dynamic. If the Lions decide to target a running back in the later rounds, they’ll be looking for someone who can fit into their up-tempo offense, offer flexibility, and provide depth at the position.
The success of teams who have found impactful running backs late in the draft is a strong reason for the Lions to consider this route. Players like Alvin Kamara (third round), Aaron Jones (fifth round), and James Robinson (undrafted) have all been incredibly successful despite being selected in the later rounds. These players have proven that talent can be found outside the early rounds, and the Lions would be wise to target a similar prospect who could add value to their offense without breaking the bank in terms of draft capital.
Additionally, the Lions have a strong supporting cast that could help a young running back make an immediate impact. Detroit’s offensive line has been one of the strongest in the NFL, and with players like Frank Ragnow and Penei Sewell leading the way, any running back in the Lions’ backfield is poised to run behind a top-tier offensive line. This could make it easier for a rookie or second-year player to contribute right away, as they won’t have to carry the full load of the offense, and the blocking up front will make their job easier.
Moreover, the Lions’ offensive coaching staff has done a tremendous job maximizing the strengths of their players. Under Ben Johnson, Detroit has evolved into a creative, run-heavy offense that knows how to exploit defensive weaknesses. A running back who is drafted by the Lions could benefit from this creative scheme, as the coaches will work to tailor plays to the back’s strengths. Whether it’s utilizing outside-zone runs, creating screen opportunities, or leveraging the power running game, the Lions’ offensive staff has a track record of getting the most out of their ball carriers.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the running back class is deep, and there are plenty of players who could be available on Day 3 who could fit the Lions’ needs. Backs with great vision, solid hands out of the backfield, and the ability to pass block could become valuable rotational players or serve as a future solution if Swift and Montgomery are not long-term options for the team. The Lions’ draft strategy will certainly prioritize addressing their more pressing needs early, but a running back taken on Day 3 could provide excellent value.
Ultimately, if the right player falls to them on Day 3, the Lions could be in a prime position to land an impact player for the future of their backfield. As the draft unfolds, all eyes will be on the Lions to see how they balance filling immediate needs with long-term planning, and a running back could very well be a strategic choice to strengthen their offense for years to come.