By Sunday 
Building from the Inside Out: Detroit’s Formula for Success
If there’s one thing the Detroit Lions have proven under the leadership of Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell, it’s that winning starts in the trenches. From a dominant offensive line that wears down opponents to a defensive front that disrupts backfields, Detroit’s identity is built on physicality and control at the line of scrimmage.
In ESPN’s latest NFL mock draft, analyst Field Yates leans heavily into this philosophy, predicting the Lions will double down on the trenches with their first two selections. With their eyes set on reinforcing both sides of the ball, Detroit is poised to continue its hard-nosed approach.
Round 1: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
With the No. 28 overall pick, Yates projects the Lions will select Derrick Harmon, a disruptive defensive tackle from Oregon.
“Injuries befell the Detroit defense down the stretch last season, and some of them will linger into this upcoming season — including stalwart defensive tackle Alim McNeill’s torn ACL,” Yates noted. “Harmon could help fill that hole after his breakthrough 2024 season. His 34 pressures in his lone year with the Ducks were by far the most of any FBS defensive tackle. He has the length, power at the point of attack and pursuit speed as a rusher to make a difference.”
With McNeill on the mend, the addition of Harmon would provide Detroit with much-needed depth and explosiveness up front. His ability to generate pressure and hold his ground against the run makes him a natural fit for Aaron Glenn’s defensive scheme.
Round 2: Tate Ratledge, OG, Georgia
In the second round, Yates foresees the Lions shifting their focus to the offensive side of the ball by selecting Georgia guard Tate Ratledge with the No. 60 pick.
“The Lions lost Kevin Zeitler in free agency,” Yates explained. “And if they don’t view either Christian Mahogany or Kayode Awosika as a lock to start at right guard, Ratledge would be a great pick. He is among the most polished players in the class.”
Detroit values toughness and technical precision in its linemen, and Ratledge fits the bill. With an open competition at right guard, he could step in immediately and push for a starting role, further solidifying an already formidable offensive line.
A Blueprint That Stays True to Detroit’s Identity
The Lions’ success in recent years has been fueled by their dominance at the line of scrimmage, and this mock draft keeps that momentum going. Harmon’s disruptive potential and Ratledge’s stability embody the team’s core principles: physicality, depth, and versatility.
Dan Campbell’s blueprint remains unchanged—win in the trenches, control the game, and wear opponents down. If this draft projection holds, the Lions will be in prime position to continue their ascent as one of the NFL’s toughest teams to beat.