The Detroit Lions are heading into the offseason with high expectations after a dominant 15-2 regular season ended in disappointment. With changes in the coaching staff and key free agents to address, GM Brad Holmes is looking for ways to improve the roster—and one of his own players is speaking up about the draft.
Lions Pro Bowl safety Brian Branch took to social media to campaign for Detroit to select his former Alabama teammate, linebacker Jihaad Campbell, in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Campbell, who impressed at the NFL Combine, is considered a late-first to early-second-round prospect and could be available when the Lions pick at No. 28 overall.
Detroit’s linebacker depth was tested last season due to injuries, and despite investing heavily in the position in past drafts, they surprisingly didn’t take a linebacker in 2024. Campbell had a breakout season at Alabama, posting 117 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, and an interception. His versatility and athleticism could make him a great fit in Aaron Glenn’s defensive scheme.
With the draft approaching, it remains to be seen if the Lions share Branch’s enthusiasm for Campbell, but adding another playmaker to the defense wouldn’t be a bad move.
Detroit Lions Standout Publicly Calls for Specific Draft Pick
