As we draw closer to the NFL combine, numerous draft predictions are beginning to emerge. Experts from the NFL community are diving headfirst into the intricacies of the 2025 NFL draft, endeavoring to forecast the choices various teams may make from April 24-26 in Green Bay. College draft prospects who have secured an invite to the combine will get a chance to exhibit their athleticism and engage in interviews with teams. They aim to convincingly argue why they should be absorbed into one of the 32 NFL rosters during the draft.
In the context of this vibrant draft activity, the Detroit Lions are expected to cast their first vote towards the closure of the initial round, following their impressive performance of 15-2 in the recent 2024 season. The Lions hold the strategic 28th spot for their initial pick, and own a total of seven picks across the seven rounds of the drafting process.
Past drafts record that the Lions have chosen from the 28th position once before, assigning the spot to guard Laken Tomlinson back in 2015. They advanced from the 29th place the previous year, trading up to secure cornerback Terrion Arnold with the 24th overall pick.
Brad Holmes, the General Manager for the Lions, has exhibited a successful drafting strategy over his four-year tenure. His next endeavor will focus on the acquisition of dynamic, affordable young talent to push the Lions beyond their playoff plateau. He hopes to leverage the upcoming draft for this purpose.
During the press conference held at the end of the season, Holmes stated his ongoing intention to utilize the draft as a means to ‘incorporate the finest players that we believe are compatible’ whilst employing free agency to plug any gaps within the team. Therefore, future drafts continue to be pivotal for the team’s strategy.
Aligning with this perspective, expert analysts have shared their predictions in regards to what they believe the Lions will decide for the 28th pick. One key suggestion is that the Lions could use this selection to reinforce their defensive line. The name that stands out for this position is Nic Scourton, the noteworthy edge rusher from Texas A&M.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 280 pounds, Scourton could blend seamlessly into the defensive end rotation alongside notable players such as Aidan Hutchinson, Za’Darius Smith, and Josh Paschal. The defensive strength that Scourton brings to the team could be a game changer for the Lions.
In addition to boosting their defensive lineup, the Lions are also predicted to fortify their offensive line. North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel is considered a strong contender for this position. Should the Lions decide not to renew Kevin Zeitler’s contract, the role Zabel could play may become quite significant.
Zabel’s potential as an interior offensive lineman could prove instrumental should Zeitler depart via free agency. Moreover, there’s buzzing speculation that the Lions might go for another strong offensive line player, Donovan Jackson, a guard from Ohio State. Jackson, like Zabel, could also act as potential replacement for Zeitler.
The Lions are also considering another powerful contender from Texas A&M, defensive end Shemar Stewart. Stewart, standing at an impressive 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, is one of the most athletically gifted candidates in the class.
Securing Stewart could offer the Lions a unique opportunity to not just strengthen their defense line but also provide raw power and agility. His exceptional athletic profile underlines his potential of being a standout performer and a strategic move for the Lions.
On the other hand, the Lions might consider addressing the single lingering question mark on their offensive lineup, and then devote the rest of the selections to reinforcing their defensive squad. Selecting Grey Zabel could be a move in this direction.
Regardless of the specific choices they make, it’s clear that the Lions have a strategic opportunity in the upcoming draft. By making measured and powerful selections, they can seize this moment to build a team that’s stronger, more versatile, and highly competitive.
Given their current roster and the potential draft picks discussed, the Lions could create an efficient balance of offensive and defensive prowess. While speculation continues to buzz, the actual choices will hinge on the team’s assessment of the best strategic fit for their specific needs and goals.
Balancing the optimal blend of veteran wisdom, youthful dynamism, and raw talent calls for insightful and strategic decision-making. As such, the Lions’ choices in this year’s draft will tell an intriguing story about their approach towards creating a formidable team.
As the draft dates draw closer, fans and the NFL community await with bated breath to see the Lions’ choices unfold. After all, each choice will not only have immediate implications on the Lions’ on-field performance, but also on the broader narrative of how the team is building for its future.