By Blessing 
Why the Lions Couldn’t Pass on Donovan Ezeiruaku in Latest OnSI Mock Draft
The Detroit Lions are already armed with one of the NFL’s most exciting young pass rushers in Aidan Hutchinson — but what if they added a running mate just as fierce on the opposite side?
That’s exactly what unfolded in the latest OnSI mock draft, where Detroit used the 28th overall pick to grab Boston College’s Donovan Ezeiruaku — a move that could turn their defensive line into something special.
Ezeiruaku had a breakout year for the Eagles last season, tallying an impressive 16.5 sacks. His explosiveness off the edge and consistent disruption in the backfield caught the attention of scouts across the league, and clearly, the OnSI team took notice.
“The Lions find their answer opposite of Aidan Hutchinson in a player that recorded 16.5 sacks for a talented Boston College squad,” wrote John Maakaron. “His speed off the end will give opposing offensive linemen challenges early in his NFL career.”
That speed isn’t the only reason Ezeiruaku stands out. He finished the season with 80 total tackles and 21 tackles for loss, showing he’s not just a pass-rushing specialist. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a 90.0 overall defensive grade with 60 total pressures — numbers that earned him All-American recognition.
For Detroit, that kind of production is exactly what they need to keep building a top-tier defense. While Hutchinson has already proven he can lead a front line, pairing him with a versatile force like Ezeiruaku could elevate the entire unit.
And it’s not just about sacks. Ezeiruaku has shown an impressive ability to handle run defense as well, with good instincts and discipline that make him more than a one-dimensional edge player. He can stay on the field for base downs and adapt to different situations, a trait the Lions’ coaching staff would certainly value.
With the depth in this year’s EDGE class, the Lions had options — but grabbing Ezeiruaku shows they’re thinking long-term. He may need a bit of NFL polish, but the tools are there. If developed properly, he could be the perfect complement to Hutchinson, and together, they might form one of the most feared pass-rushing duos in the league.
In short, this pick isn’t just about filling a need — it’s about building a future.