The Detroit Lions hold seven picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. After finishing with 15 wins in the 2024 season, the team must continue to target young, impactful players who can contribute meaningfully during crucial moments of the season as they aim for playoff contention.
General manager Brad Holmes has consistently demonstrated his ability to identify prospects that align with the coaching staff’s culture and who can earn the respect of their teammates.
Here’s a breakdown of the positions Holmes should focus on with each pick in this year’s draft:
Round 1: No. 28
Round 2: No. 60
Round 3: No. 102
Round 4: No. 130
Round 6: No. 196
Round 7: No. 228
Round 7: No. 244
No. 28 (EDGE)
Detroit needs to address the question of who will complement Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line. Marcus Davenport is a player the coaching staff is hopeful will stay healthy after dealing with multiple injuries over the past seasons. This group of defensive ends is expected to contribute and assist in slowing down opposing offenses. One of the team’s main goals for the year is to boost their sack totals.
No. 60 (Offensive Line)
The Lions need to strengthen their offensive line and add younger players. While the line performed well in 2024, it’s aging. With Kevin Zeitler leaving in free agency and Graham Glasgow looking to bounce back from injuries, Detroit could target a versatile swing tackle who can also play guard. This would allow offensive line coach Hank Fraley the flexibility to rotate Christian Mahogany at either guard spot and provide depth behind Glasgow.
No. 102 (Defensive Tackle)
Alim McNeill is recovering from an injury, and the team brought in Roy Lopez to reinforce the defensive line and help improve the run defense. Drafting a defensive tackle at this spot would add depth and competition, particularly with Brodric Martin, who needs to prove his worth for more playing time this season.
No. 130 (Linebacker)
There has been increased talk about whether the team requires additional help at linebacker. While Alex Anzalone remains the defensive leader, both Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez are returning from significant injuries. A versatile linebacker here would be a great addition, especially since the team’s new defensive coordinator has experience coaching this position.
No. 196 (Safety)
The safety position is a bit thin on a roster that is otherwise deep. Aside from Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, there’s a lack of experience at safety. The Lions might look for a veteran in free agency or select a young, adaptable defensive back to potentially replace Ifeatu Melifonwu.
No. 228 (Tight End)
While Detroit signed Kenny Yeboah in free agency, they still need to add depth at tight end in the draft. With an emphasis on the run game, selecting a blocking tight end who can open rushing lanes and contribute on special teams would be ideal for this pick.
No. 244 (Wide Receiver)
Head coach Dan Campbell has expressed a desire to get younger at wide receiver. With Allen Robinson and Donovan Peoples-Jones no longer on the roster, the Lions may target a big-bodied “X” receiver later in the draft to further bolster their receiving corps.
