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Lions and Packers battle off the field for standout OL talent, John Thomas, ahead of the 2025 season.
NFC North Rivalry Extends Beyond the Field
The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions are set to dominate the NFC North in the coming years. While the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears display glimpses of promise, it is Green Bay and Detroit that seem to have firmly established their franchise quarterbacks heading into the 2025 season.
However, the rivalry between these two powerhouses isn’t limited to game days. It has spilled over into the offseason scouting process, where both teams find themselves vying for the services of a highly sought-after offensive line prospect.
Lions Lead the Charge for John Thomas
New Haven offensive lineman John Thomas has become a prominent name in NFL scouting circles. According to Easton Butler, an insider following Green Bay’s scouting activities, Thomas has garnered attention from several teams, including the Jets, Falcons, and 49ers. However, it is the Detroit Lions who appear to be most invested in bringing him aboard.
Thomas reportedly met with Detroit representatives during either the FCS Bowl or the Tropical Bowl, two key scouting events that showcase top collegiate talent. While the Green Bay Packers also expressed interest, the Lions’ efforts stand out as the most aggressive pursuit of the standout lineman.
A Rising Star from the Tropical Bowl
Thomas earned recognition as one of the top performers at the Tropical Bowl, a platform known for spotlighting NFL-ready players. His name was mentioned alongside other notable offensive line prospects, including Dom Boyd (Georgia Southern), Weston Franklin (Georgia Tech), and Nick Malone (West Virginia).
The accolades have made Thomas a prime target for teams aiming to solidify their offensive line depth, with both the Lions and Packers hoping to gain an edge in the race to secure his talent.
What’s at Stake?
With the Packers and Lions aiming to stay ahead in a competitive NFC North, acquiring a player of Thomas’ caliber could provide a key boost to their respective offensive strategies. For Detroit, adding Thomas could solidify their offensive line and further support their rising franchise quarterback. Meanwhile, Green Bay sees an opportunity to bolster protection for Jordan Love, their leader under center.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on where John Thomas lands. Whether it’s Detroit, Green Bay, or another suitor, the decision could have ripple effects across the league—and especially in the NFC North.