Mel Kiper’s Latest Mock Draft Has Lions Sticking with Defense
As the NFL Combine kicks off, mock draft season is in full swing—and ESPN’s Mel Kiper is buying into the idea that the Detroit Lions will target a pass rusher in Round 1.
In his latest mock, Kiper has the Lions selecting UCLA edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo with the 28th overall pick. Oladejo has been climbing draft boards, thanks in part to an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl.
Last season, Oladejo racked up 14 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, showing the kind of burst and intensity that should translate well to the NFL. He started his college career at California, but it wasn’t until his final season at UCLA that he truly broke out.
Kiper sees a clear need for Detroit to add another pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson, especially after Hutchinson missed time with an injury in 2024.
“The Lions never really had a clear No. 2 pass rusher opposite Hutchinson,” Kiper wrote. “Za’Darius Smith had four sacks after a midseason trade, but no other edge rusher had more than three.”
Detroit’s defense took a hit last season with a wave of injuries, and Kiper believes GM Brad Holmes will address that in both free agency and the draft. While Oladejo may be a bit of a projection as a first-round pick, Kiper thinks his strong tape and expected combine performance could justify the selection.
The Lions have a big decision ahead on Za’Darius Smith’s contract, and Levi Onwuzurike is a pending free agent, meaning Detroit could be looking at a major shake-up in the pass-rush department.
With on-field drills beginning Thursday, Oladejo has a prime opportunity to solidify his spot as a first-round pick. If the Lions truly want to beef up their pass rush, he could be their guy.
