Did Mel Kiper Just Mock the Lions into a Big Draft Mistake?
With the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner, draft expert Mel Kiper has released his latest mock draft, and let’s just say… Lions fans might not be thrilled.
Kiper has the Detroit Lions using their No. 28 overall pick on UCLA linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo—a player who, while talented, might not be worth a first-round selection.
Breaking Down Kiper’s Pick
Kiper highlights Detroit’s defensive struggles last season, especially their lack of a reliable pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. Injuries played a role, but even when healthy, the Lions lacked a true No. 2 threat off the edge.
“Oladejo has steadily risen in this class, moving from Round 3 to the Round 2 conversation with a good Senior Bowl week,” Kiper explained. “The jump to Round 1 is a bit of a projection, but he’s getting buzz right now—I think he could be in this range after the combine.”
For reference, Oladejo’s 2024 numbers weren’t exactly eye-popping:
Tackles: 57
Sacks: 4.5
Passes Defended: 2
The Bottom Line
There’s no doubt Oladejo is a promising player, but taking him at No. 28 feels like a reach. In fact, there’s a strong chance he’d still be available for Detroit’s second-round pick at No. 60. If the Lions are serious about shoring up their defense, they’d be better off looking elsewhere in the first round—perhaps targeting a top-tier cornerback or an edge rusher with a stronger track record.
What do you think? Would Oladejo be a good fit for Detroit, or should Brad Holmes look in a different direction?
