7 Safeties the Detroit Lions Should Watch at the 2025 NFL Combine
With the 2025 NFL Combine on the horizon, the Detroit Lions are keeping a close eye on safety prospects that could enhance their already strong secondary. While the team has an All-Pro and Pro Bowler in Brian Branch and a rising star in Kerby Joseph, the Lions could still look to add depth or even a versatile third safety to improve their defensive backfield. Here are seven safeties Detroit should be scouting at the Combine:
Malaki Starks (Georgia)
A fluid athlete with the ability to cover both safety positions and even the slot, Starks stands out for his rangy playmaking and quick reaction times. His versatility and intelligence make him a first-round prospect who could bolster Detroit’s defense.
Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina)
Emmanwori’s blend of size, speed, and athleticism makes him a unique option. His ability to play both deep and in the box, as well as his coverage against tight ends, gives him considerable upside for the Lions’ defense.
Xavier Watts (Notre Dame)
With great instincts and solid coverage ability, Watts has proven himself versatile, playing single-high, split-zone, and even the slot. His ability to read plays and react quickly could make him a valuable asset for Detroit’s secondary.
Lathan Ransom (Ohio State)
A physical player with great range, Ransom excels in a split-zone system, often acting as a run-stopping safety closer to the box. His aggressive style of play and ability to make plays on special teams make him an intriguing Day 2 or Day 3 pick.
Malachi Moore (Alabama)
Known for his intelligence and ball skills, Moore has excelled in coverage and can play a variety of roles in the secondary. Though his long speed may be a limitation, his football IQ and instincts are key traits the Lions will likely value.
Dante Trader Jr. (Maryland)
Trader’s ability to diagnose plays and his quick burst make him a strong candidate for Detroit’s defense. His versatility allows him to line up in multiple spots, including as a single-high safety, and his competitiveness is something the Lions will appreciate.
Rayuan Lane III (Navy)
Lane’s ball-hawking ability and instinctive playmaking could be a fit for the Lions, especially in a special teams role. His solid tackling and quick reactions make him a sleeper pick for Detroit, particularly for Day 3.
As the Combine unfolds, Detroit will be looking for safeties who can add depth, versatility, and potentially even challenge for a starting role, providing crucial support behind Branch and Joseph.
7 Safeties the Detroit Lions Need to Watch at the 2025 NFL Combine
