By Sunday 
The 2025 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and for the Detroit Lions, it feels like destiny is dialing in. With a loaded draft class up front and lingering needs on the defensive line, this could be the year GM Brad Holmes finally builds a front that bites as hard as it barks.
Let’s dig into why the stars are aligning for Detroit’s D-line — and why the war room might look like a candy shop come draft night.
A Need That’s Been Brewing
Let’s be honest — we’ve been talking about finding Aidan Hutchinson a running mate for a while now. Detroit made a splash with Hutch in 2022, and he’s been electric. But with Za’Darius Smith gone, Marcus Davenport’s injury history, and talk of moving Josh Paschal inside, there’s a real need to reload at EDGE.
The good news? The 2025 draft is stacked. Not “meh, they’re fine” stacked — we’re talking pass-rushers and D-linemen that could anchor a defense for years.
The First-Round Flavor
The Lions pick near the back of the first round, which adds a bit of mystery. Who’ll still be on the board? Could someone unexpectedly fall?
There are several names floating as potential fits:
- Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College): He had 16.5 sacks and three forced fumbles last season. Explosive off the line with great length, Ezeiruaku could be molded into something special. He might need to bulk up, but the upside is serious.
- Nic Scourton (Texas A&M): Once the Big Ten sack leader, he’s a powerhouse who transitioned to a stacked Aggies line. The sack count dropped, but the tape still pops — strong hands, relentless motor, and big-game experience.
- Mykel Williams (Georgia): A potential sleeper pick. Injuries kept him a bit under the radar, but when healthy, he’s a beast. He brings a rare combo of speed, power, and run-stuffing prowess. Could be the ultimate “steal.”
Brad Holmes hinted at how deep this class really is, saying, “There’s some good players at that position… some will go before our pick, and some might be available at our pick.”
It’s not hard to read between those lines.
Don’t Forget the Big Guys Inside
The EDGE isn’t the only spot Detroit could address. The interior D-line is quietly a massive area of opportunity.
- T.J. Sanders (South Carolina) is a name to know. At 6’4″, 305 pounds, he’s twitchy, disruptive, and a personal favorite of local insiders. His last two seasons? 12.5 sacks, 24 tackles for loss, and five batted passes. He’s active and can move. If he’s there late in the first, he might be hard to pass up.
- Derrick Harmon (Oregon) and Walter Nolen (Ole Miss) also offer exciting first-round possibilities, although Nolen’s athleticism might push him off the board early.
Mid-Round Gems Could Shine Too
Even if the Lions don’t go D-line in the first, the talent doesn’t dry up.
- Joshua Farmer (Florida State) is flying under the radar thanks to FSU’s down year, but he’s a legit pass-rushing threat.
- Deone Walker (Kentucky) is a giant — 6’8″, 328 lbs. You’d think he’s just a space-eater, but the dude moves. Detroit loves size + versatility, and Walker offers both in spades.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just a good year to grab a D-lineman — it’s the year. If you’re a Lions fan, draft weekend should feel like Christmas morning. Whether it’s EDGE or DT (or both), the board will be loaded, and Detroit’s need is loud and clear.
Expect a heavy investment in the trenches. Maybe even a double-dip.
Because when this team is at its best — tough, nasty, relentless — it all starts up front. And in 2025, the Lions have a golden ticket to get even scarier in the trenches.