Tight end might not seem like a glaring need for the Lions heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, but don’t rule it out just yet. Brad Holmes has built a reputation on sticking to the “best player available” strategy, and if the right guy is on the board—regardless of position—he’s shown he won’t hesitate to pull the trigger.
Sure, the Lions are in a solid spot short-term at tight end. Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright are locked in through 2026, and both are still young. But the reality is, with looming financial decisions across the roster, Detroit might consider shaking things up if a top tight end prospect falls in their lap. They’ve done it before—just ask T.J. Hockenson.
Depth is a bit thin behind LaPorta and Wright, and Detroit often uses multiple tight end sets. While guys like Kenny Yeboah and Shane Zylstra offer some experience, competition is welcome—and expected. Expect the Lions to add a couple more names before camp, possibly even spending a mid- to late-round pick to do it.
If they go early, names like Elijah Arroyo (Miami), Mason Taylor (LSU), and Terrance Ferguson (Oregon) stand out as solid options. Arroyo in particular is a well-rounded tight end with size and team-first mentality, though injuries have been an issue.
On Day 3, Georgia Tech’s Jackson Hawes, Alabama’s CJ Dippre, and Syracuse’s Oronde Gadsden II bring intrigue. Gadsden is more of a big-bodied receiver than a traditional tight end, but his hands and route-running are elite. Dippre, meanwhile, ranks among the most athletic in the class, though he’s more of a blocker than a pass-catcher right now.
It may not be the flashy move fans are expecting, but if Holmes sees value, tight end could be one of this year’s draft surprises for the Lions.
