The countdown to the 2025 NFL Draft is officially on, with just two weeks remaining until teams across the league will make pivotal decisions that could shape their futures. As speculation continues to swirl, one thing is clear: the Detroit Lions are gearing up to strengthen their defense, particularly their pass rush, with their first-round pick.
In the latest mock draft roundups, experts overwhelmingly predict that the Lions will select an edge rusher to complement their standout defender, Aidan Hutchinson, who had a stellar 2024 season. The only question that remains is which edge rusher will be chosen to bolster the team's defensive front.
According to USA TODAY's Nate Davis, the Lions are expected to take defensive tackle Derrick Harmon from Oregon. Harmon, a Detroit native, is known for his versatility and ability to attack from various positions on the defensive line. "Comfortable attacking from almost anywhere, Harmon would surely be a welcome addition to a defense that looks desperate to set the tone up front," Davis remarked. This pick would address the Lions' need for depth and strength in the trenches, especially after a season plagued by injuries.
On the other hand, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has set his sights on linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College. Ezeiruaku has made headlines with his impressive performance, leading the FBS with 65 pressures and converting them into 16.5 sacks last season. Kiper believes that selecting Ezeiruaku would not only fill a significant gap in the Lions' pass rush but also provide excellent value at the 21st pick. "He would take care of that pass rush need but also do so at value," Kiper stated.
Adding to the mix, The Ringer's Todd McShay has linked the Lions to edge rusher James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee, who also had a standout career in college. Pearce led the SEC with 10 sacks in 2023 and added another 7.5 sacks in 2024. McShay highlighted the Lions' pressing need for another edge rusher, stating, "James Pearce would be a steal there," especially considering the struggles the team faced last season with limited pass rush options.
Meanwhile, NFL Network's Rhett Lewis sees the Lions selecting Mike Green from Marshall, who led FBS defenders with 17 sacks and was named the Sun Belt Conference's Defensive Player of the Year. Green's impressive statistics and accolades make him a strong candidate to join Hutchinson in fortifying the Lions' defensive line.
Interestingly, The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner suggests the Lions might pivot to the offensive side of the ball, selecting offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas. Although Banks is not primarily known for playing guard, Baumgardner believes he could transition well into that role and provide much-needed support for the Lions' offensive line.
As the draft approaches, the Lions' focus remains clear: enhancing their defense, particularly their pass rush, is a top priority. With multiple experts predicting various edge rushers and defensive players, the excitement surrounding the Lions' first-round pick continues to build. Fans eagerly await to see which player will don the Honolulu blue and silver, ready to make an impact on the field.
In the meantime, the Las Vegas Raiders are also preparing for the draft, holding nine picks, including the sixth overall selection. Analysts are buzzing about the possibility of the Raiders selecting Ashton Jeanty, a talented running back. However, Chris Trapasso's recent mock draft suggests the Raiders might opt for wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan instead. With the 37th pick in the second round, the Raiders could secure another playmaker if Jihaad Campbell, a highly touted linebacker, falls into their lap.
Campbell had an impressive 2024 season, recording 119 total tackles, two defended passes, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception returned for a touchdown. His ability to contribute to the linebacker corps would significantly bolster the Raiders' defensive unit.
As teams finalize their strategies and prepare for the draft, the anticipation is palpable. The decisions made on April 24 will not only impact the upcoming season but could also set the stage for years to come. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how each team's draft strategy unfolds and which players will rise to the occasion.
With the NFL Draft just around the corner, the excitement is building, and the stakes have never been higher. Will the Lions and Raiders make the selections that propel them to success? Only time will tell as the clock ticks down to draft day.
