The 2025 NFL Combine is right around the corner, running from February 27 to March 2, and it’s a big moment for teams to evaluate top prospects ahead of the draft. For the Detroit Lions, the cornerback position remains a key focus despite last year’s investments in Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw. With free agents potentially leaving gaps in the secondary, GM Brad Holmes will be keeping a close eye on potential additions.
What to Watch in Combine Drills
When evaluating cornerbacks, the Lions will focus on press-man coverage ability and tackling skills—key traits in their defensive scheme. The “backpedal and react” drill highlights a corner’s ability to stay in phase, while the “W” drill tests quick changes of direction. The Lions want corners with fluid hips, strong instincts, and natural ball skills.
Top Prospects to Watch
Will Johnson (Michigan, 6’2”, 202 lbs.)
A top-10 talent before a turf toe injury slowed his 2024 season, Johnson is a press-man specialist with elite coverage instincts and nine career interceptions. If he slips down the draft board, the Lions could have an opportunity to trade up.
Shavon Revel Jr. (East Carolina, 6’3”, 200 lbs.)
A long, athletic press corner, Revel’s draft stock hinges on medical updates after an early-season ACL injury. He’s physical at the line and stays sticky in coverage but needs refinement in technique.
Jacob Parrish (Kansas State, 5’10”, 196 lbs.)
Parrish is an aggressive, high-motor defender who thrives in man coverage. His size makes him a potential nickel option, but he’ll need to prove he can hold up outside against bigger receivers.
Jahdae Barron (Texas, 6’0”, 194 lbs.)
A versatile defender who can play nickel or safety, Barron brings intelligence and aggression. He needs to refine his hand placement to avoid penalties, but his physicality makes him a strong fit for Detroit.
Azareye’h Thomas (Florida State, 6’1.5”, 191 lbs.)
A rising prospect after a strong Senior Bowl, Thomas excels in press coverage but must prove his long speed at the Combine. Like many in this class, his run support needs work.
Trey Amos (Mississippi, 6’0”, 195 lbs.)
A well-rounded press corner with Cover-3 ability, Amos needs to show off his top-end speed. He’s a willing tackler but inconsistent in staying square to ball carriers.
Nohl Williams (California, 6’0”, 200 lbs.)
A physical presence at the line with 14 career interceptions, Williams has the tools to be a difference-maker if his run support matches his coverage skills.
Run Support Concerns for This CB Class
Many corners in this class struggle in run support, something the Lions value highly. Players like Cobee Bryant (Kansas), Mac McWilliams (UCF), and Robert Longerbeam (Rutgers) bring tenacity and tackling ability, but their press-man skills are in question.
The Bottom Line
With Detroit aiming to build long-term depth at cornerback, this year’s draft class presents options, but each player has areas to improve. The Combine will help separate the top-tier talent from the rest, and the Lions will be watching closely to find the right fit for their aggressive defense.
2025 NFL Combine: 10 Cornerbacks the Lions Should Keep on Their Radar
