The Detroit Lions are looking to bolster their defense in the 2025 NFL Draft, and one of their main priorities is adding a quality edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. With a wealth of defensive talent available this year, here are three top defensive end candidates who could be available when the Lions pick at 28th overall:
1. James Pearce (Tennessee)
James Pearce, standing at 6’5″ and weighing 242 pounds, has shown explosive speed and impressive pass-rushing abilities during his college career. Pearce was a standout in the SEC, earning back-to-back All-SEC honors and displaying his athleticism with a 52-yard interception return for a touchdown in the 2024 Citrus Bowl. With 19.5 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss over his college career, Pearce is a highly skilled pass rusher. His size and quickness make him a dangerous weapon on the edge, although his slender build may pose challenges against stronger offensive linemen.
2. Mike Green (Marshall)
Mike Green, a 6’3″, 251-pound defensive end from Marshall, could be one of the sleepers of the draft. After transferring from Virginia to Marshall, Green exploded in 2024, leading his team to a Sunbelt Conference championship and registering an NCAA-best 17 sacks. Known for his physical play and aggressive pass-rushing, Green’s burst off the line and excellent hand usage are his strengths. However, his limited history as a starter raises questions about whether his 2024 performance was an anomaly or a sign of his untapped potential. Green could bring an exciting, raw talent to the Lions’ defense.
3. Jalon Walker (Georgia)
Although primarily an inside linebacker, Jalon Walker’s versatility and pass-rushing ability make him an intriguing edge rusher prospect for the Lions. At 6’2″ and 245 pounds, Walker was a standout for the Georgia Bulldogs, earning First-Team All-American honors and winning the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker. He has the speed and athleticism to contribute as an edge rusher, and his ability to impact both the run and pass games could make him a perfect fit for Detroit’s defense.
Why an Edge Rusher is a Priority for Detroit
The Lions’ defense showed significant improvement in 2024, ranking 7th in the league for points allowed, despite injuries to key players like Hutchinson, Aidan McNeil, and Carlton Davis. However, the defense struggled in one key area: yardage allowed, ranking 31st in the league with over 247 yards per game given up. Adding an edge rusher who can disrupt the quarterback and help pressure opposing offenses could help Detroit cut down on big plays and improve their overall defensive performance. Pairing a strong edge rusher with Hutchinson would create a formidable pass rush, making the Lions defense even more dangerous in 2025.
Defensive End Draft Prospects the Lions Could Look to Add in 2025
