By Blessing 
Whispers in the War Room: A Lions Mock Draft Built on Private Talks
Mocking the Detroit Lions’ 2025 Draft class using only prospects they’ve met with
By Max Gerber
With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Detroit Lions have left no stone unturned in scouting talent across the board. Their approach has been a mix of evaluating both the cream of the crop and the under-the-radar gems—many of whom could become household names by the end of Day 3.
In total, the Lions have reportedly met with 46 prospects through a variety of channels: local pro days, virtual interviews, and top-30 visits. That’s a deep pool of potential picks they’ve spent face-to-face time with. So, what would the Lions’ draft look like if they selected only players they’ve personally spoken to? Let’s break down this hypothetical, seven-round scenario built entirely on personal contact.
Round 1 – Pick 28: OL Gray Zabel, North Dakota State
On the surface, offensive line might not seem like a top concern for Detroit—but look a little closer, and there’s a pressing need down the road. Graham Glasgow’s play dipped late last season, and with a contract out after 2025, the team would be wise to think ahead. That’s where Gray Zabel steps in.
Zabel isn’t your average first-round name. Coming from a smaller program at North Dakota State, he might not light up national draft boards, but his game tape tells a different story. A 6-foot-6, 312-pound anchor who’s spent most of his career at tackle, Zabel brings elite athleticism, leadership, and technique. He gave up just four sacks in over 1,100 snaps with the Bison. His physical play style is both aggressive and controlled—rare traits to find in one package.
More than just a mauler, Zabel was a team captain and turned down transfer opportunities to stick with NDSU. That loyalty, along with a connection to Lions tight ends coach Tyler Roehl (his OC from 2020–2023), makes him a seamless cultural fit for Detroit.
Round 2 – Pick 60: EDGE Josaiah Stewart, Michigan
With no picks until the third round after this, Detroit might look to make a bold move—and that could mean going for Michigan’s Josaiah Stewart. The team has shown clear interest, having met with him multiple times. That’s no coincidence.
At first glance, Stewart might appear like a tweener—perhaps better suited as a 3-4 linebacker—but he could slide into Detroit’s defense as a SAM linebacker, a role once played by James Houston. Stewart’s speed off the edge and ability to create chaos in the backfield could be invaluable opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
He’s also got leadership in his DNA. Stewart was a team captain for the Wolverines, and his relentless energy is the kind of trait Dan Campbell loves to build around.
Round 3 – Pick 102: S Jonas Sanker, Virginia
Detroit’s safety room is already pretty stacked, with Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch leading the charge. Still, adding a versatile DB like Jonas Sanker could be the move that helps Branch slide into nickel duties more frequently.
Sanker doesn’t just play safety—he thrives in multiple roles. At Virginia, he took snaps at both free and strong safety, and even played in the slot. His numbers speak volumes: 176 total tackles and seven