Pride of Detroit
Which positions could the Detroit Lions realistically select on Day 1 of the NFL Draft?
With the 28th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select...?
Those are the words that many Lions fans are anticipating, but which player could realistically follow suit? As Detroit looks to restock for another chase at a Super Bowl, the draft could be a pivotal moment in that pursuit. The Lions have an endless amount of options, from offense to defense to outright trading the pick. As we try to prepare for another Brad Holmes-led draft, unpredictability is at the forefront of the discussion. All things considered, can we truly know what the Lions will or will not do?
The first round of the draft is typically the most consequential, so we will narrow our focus on that. The Lions could spend their draft capital on any player, but are there some positions that are more realistic than others?
Today’s Question of the Day is:
My answer: Let’s go through each position.
Quarterback: Brad Holmes has been bold before, but with Jared Goff entrenched as the starter and Hendon Hooker still developing, I would be stunned by a quarterback. Not realistic.
Running back: The Lions proved everyone wrong when they selected Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round. However, between Gibbs, David Montgomery, and Sione Vaki, the Lions have zero incentive to draft a running back early. Not realistic.
Wide receiver: The Lions have a stud in the form of Amon-Ra St. Brown and an explosive weapon in the form of Jameson Williams. Beyond those names, the Lions receiving corps is fairly barren. The next depth options were Tim Patrick, a pending free agent, and Kalif Raymond, a special teamer and tertiary option. Even Williams is entering an interesting time, with the Lions having to weigh a contract extension versus his value. A first-round pick would give the Lions a bonafide third receiver or insurance for injuries or departures. Realistic.
Tight end: The Lions should be in the market for tight end help, but the first round is far too rich given the success of Sam LaPorta. Meanwhile, Brock Wright is a great fit as a TE2. I would expect a free agent or two and perhaps a later draft pick. Not realistic.
Offensive line: I’m grouping all offensive line positions together. The Lions have not shied away from investing in their offensive line, and it would make sense to continue that trend. Nearly every position has some questions going forward. How long with Taylor Decker and Frank Ragnow play for? What will the Lions do at guard with Kevin Zeitler and Graham Glasgow? Will the young players like Giovanni Manu or Christian Mahogany step into starting roles? The Lions could realistically draft a lineman for either immediate or long-term help. Realistic.
Defensive tackle: Short-term, it is unclear if Alim McNeill will be ready for Week 1. Long-term, the Lions have no...
