By Sunday 
A Dominant Force in the Trenches
The Detroit Lions have built their identity on physicality, especially in the trenches. As they look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, Alabama guard Tyler Booker emerges as a potential game-changing addition to their offensive line. With an elite combination of size, strength, and tenacity, Booker has the makings of a Day 1 starter in the NFL.
Power, Technique, and a Mean Streak
Booker, a two-year starter for the Crimson Tide, has showcased exceptional skills both in pass protection and run blocking. At 6-foot-5 and 352 pounds, he possesses the prototypical build for an interior lineman. His physicality at the line of scrimmage, paired with disciplined hand placement, allows him to absorb power rushers with ease.
His dominance in the run game aligns perfectly with the Lions’ offensive mentality. Detroit has leaned heavily on a ground-and-pound approach, and Booker’s ability to create movement in the trenches makes him an ideal fit. He recorded a team-high 92 knockdown blocks across 778 snaps last season, proving his effectiveness in driving defenders off the ball.
Leadership and Durability
Beyond his on-field prowess, Booker brings leadership qualities that stand out. He was named a team captain at Alabama, a testament to his work ethic and influence in the locker room. Over 13 games last season, he allowed just half a sack, a testament to both his consistency and discipline.
NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah praised Booker’s awareness and toughness, noting, “He sets with a wide, firm base and easily absorbs power rushers. When he locks on, he wins.” Jeremiah also highlighted his ability to work up to the second level in the run game, taking smart angles to neutralize linebackers.
How Booker Fits with the Lions
The Lions already have solid depth at guard with Graham Glasgow, Netane Muti, and Christian Mahogany, but adding a high-upside talent like Booker would solidify the unit for years to come. His aggressive play style and relentless motor fit seamlessly with Detroit’s blue-collar approach.
Detroit could opt to draft Booker to provide immediate competition or even step into a starting role, ensuring their offensive line remains one of the most formidable in the league. Given his pedigree and relentless playing style, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Booker thrive in a gap-scheme system that emphasizes power running.
Rising Draft Stock
Booker’s stock continues to rise leading up to the draft. NFL.com’s Eric Edholm ranks him No. 18 in his Top 100 prospects, while ESPN’s Jordan Reid and Matt Miller list him among their top 25 prospects. Bucky Brooks, another respected analyst, has him as the No. 1 interior lineman in the class.
Scouts have raised some concerns about his foot quickness, but his overwhelming strength and technical refinement more than compensate. “He is built like a bull, with the play strength and finishing mentality to match,” noted The Athletic’s Dan Brugler.
Booker’s Mindset and Competitive Edge
At the NFL Combine, Booker gave insight into his mentality, saying, “Everybody loves to play football when it’s easy, but who loves to play football when it’s hard? I feel like that’s what separates the good guys from the great guys.”
He thrives on the physical nature of the game and embraces the challenge of outmuscling opponents. “It’s legal assault out there, and I love football because the brand of football I play, I make guys not love football anymore,” he added.
That level of competitiveness and edge is exactly what Detroit looks for in its players. If Booker lands in the Motor City, he could be the final piece that pushes the Lions’ offensive line to elite status.