As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Detroit Lions find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. With a roster brimming with young talent and a fanbase eager for postseason success, the Lions are keenly aware of their pressing needs.
They are now looking to bolster their pass rush to complement defensive cornerstone Aidan Hutchinson. However, the burning question remains: Should Detroit stand firm at their No. 28 pick, or is it time to make an aggressive move and trade up?
Detroit Lions Assessing the Current Roster
Detroit’s defense showcased moments of brilliance in 2024. Veterans Marcus Davenport and Al-Quadin Muhammad provided depth, but they lacked the consistent impact needed to maintain an elite status.
The 2025 draft class offers a wealth of edge-rushing talent that could seamlessly fit into the Lions’ defensive scheme. Here’s a look at some of the most promising prospects.
James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 240 pounds, Pearce has been a force in the SEC. Over the past two seasons, he amassed 17.5 sacks and a career-best 43 quarterback hurries in 2024.
He earned an impressive 89.3 Pro Football Focus (PFF) pass-rush grade. Pairing Pearce with Hutchinson could give the Lions a formidable pass-rushing duo.
Mike Green, Marshall
At 6-foot-4 and 248 pounds, Green is a popular projection for the Lions at No. 28. His versatility as a pass rusher is evident, with 23 sacks and 53 quarterback hurries over the past two seasons.
In 2024, he earned a 91.4 PFF pass-rush grade and a 90.2 run-defense mark. Green’s ability to disrupt the backfield could be the perfect complement to Hutchinson’s prowess.
Mykel Williams, Georgia
Williams is a physically gifted athlete, measuring 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds. His versatility allows him to fit multiple defensive schemes, and his elite run-defense skills are noteworthy.
However, his collegiate production as a pass rusher has been modest, with 11 sacks over two seasons. Williams’ potential is undeniable, but he may need further development to become a consistent pass-rushing threat in the NFL.
Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
Standing at 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds, Stewart possesses the physical traits teams covet in an edge rusher. He earned third-team All-SEC honors in 2024 and boasts an 88.2 run-defense grade.
However, his inconsistent pass-rush production suggests he may need additional refinement before becoming a reliable NFL starter.
Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College
Measuring 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds, Ezeiruaku had a breakout campaign in 2024, recording 14 sacks and 20 quarterback hits, earning first-team All-ACC honors.
His 90.0 overall PFF grade, including a 90.4 pass-rush grade and an 83.6 run-defense mark, underscores his ability to impact both facets of the game. Ezeiruaku’s rising stock makes him a compelling option for the Lions.
The Case for Trading Up
At No. 28, the Lions risk missing out on top-tier edge rushers, as many are expected to be taken in the mid-first round. Trading up into the mid-teens could position Detroit to secure premier talent like Pearce or Green. Such a move would likely require sacrificing draft capital, but the potential payoff—adding a dynamic pass rusher to pair with Hutchinson—could justify the investment.
To move from No. 28 into the mid-first round, the Lions might consider offering their first-round pick along with mid-round selections or future picks. Teams in the 14-18 range, likely looking to accumulate more picks, could be viable trade partners.
General manager Brad Holmes has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the draft, and such a move could align with his strategy to build a formidable defense.
Alternatively, the Lions could remain at No. 28 and select from the remaining edge rushers. They could also address other needs, such as the interior defensive line or offensive guard.
Prospects like Derrick Harmon from Oregon, who had an all-around productive season in his final campaign, or Kenneth Grant from Michigan, known for his run-defense prowess, might be available late in the first round. Additionally, addressing the offensive line could provide long-term benefits for Detroit’s offense.
