By Adeniyi Precious 
Lions GM Brad Holmes loves building his roster through the draft, and he’s got a great eye for spotting hidden gems. Over the years, he’s drafted Pro Bowlers like Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Aidan Hutchinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Brian Branch, and Sam LaPorta—players who weren’t necessarily top-ranked prospects but turned into stars with the right coaching.
So, who could be the next big name in Detroit? Let’s break down this three-round mock draft for the Lions.
Round 1, Pick 28: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
Detroit’s biggest need is an EDGE rusher to pair with Hutchinson. But if the top pass rushers are gone, the Lions might go with the “best player available” strategy and grab North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel.
Zabel is a towering 6’6″, 312-pound force who helped lead NDSU to an FCS National Championship. He’s got the versatility to play multiple positions and is known for his toughness, patience, and high football IQ. Last season, he earned a stellar PFF grade of 90.4 while allowing just one sack.
With veteran guard Kevin Zeitler leaving for the Titans, Zabel could be a great long-term piece for the Lions’ offensive line.
Round 2, Pick 60: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
If the Lions don’t get an EDGE in Round 1, they could land Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer in the second round. At 6’4″ and 260 lbs., he’s one of the more well-rounded pass rushers in the draft.
Sawyer made a name for himself with a huge strip sack and touchdown recovery in OSU’s Cotton Bowl win. He’s constantly working to improve and was even named a team captain. His former coach, Jim Knowles, believes Sawyer will go down as “one of the greatest Buckeyes of all time.”
If Detroit wants a high-motor, relentless pass rusher, Sawyer could be their guy.
Round 3, Pick 102: Omarr Norman-Lott, DL, Tennessee
The Lions could continue building their pass rush in the third round with Tennessee’s Omarr Norman-Lott.
At 6’2″, 291 lbs., Norman-Lott is a quick, disruptive defensive lineman. He had 9.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss last season and earned praise for his speed and hand technique. His size could be a concern against bigger offensive linemen, but his explosiveness makes him an intriguing option.
Norman-Lott also has a bit of an edge—he was suspended for half a game after a post-game fight, but his teammates love his energy and passion. He reminds some people of Brian Branch—a player who gives everything for his team.
Final Thoughts
Brad Holmes has a history of finding draft steals, and this year should be no different. Whether it’s Zabel strengthening the offensive line, Sawyer bolstering the pass rush, or Norman-Lott adding depth to the defensive front, the Lions could be in for another strong draft class.
Let’s see who they land when the draft rolls around!