The 2025 NFL Draft season is in full swing, and with the scouting combine just around the corner, it’s time to dive into the first round of predictions. For the Detroit Lions, a team on the cusp of true Super Bowl contention, filling key defensive gaps is a top priority. Enter Donovan Ezeiruaku, the ultra-productive edge rusher out of Boston College, who lands in Detroit with the No. 28 overall pick in Ben Raven’s first mock draft of the season.
Why Ezeiruaku Makes Sense for Detroit
Ezeiruaku is fresh off a dominant senior season where he racked up an eye-popping 16.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. His explosive pass-rush skills, relentless motor, and ability to disrupt the backfield make him a perfect fit for a Lions defense that still needs more firepower opposite Aidan Hutchinson. At 6-foot-2, 248 pounds, with a wingspan that allows him to get around offensive tackles with ease, Ezeiruaku has all the tools to be a high-impact player in Detroit’s system.
Detroit’s Defensive Focus
The Lions made strides defensively last season, but their pass rush was still inconsistent beyond Hutchinson. Adding another premier edge rusher is a must, and Ezeiruaku’s blend of production, technique, and athleticism makes him a great value pick late in the first round. His ability to play in multiple fronts also fits Detroit’s versatile defensive schemes.
Other edge rushers like Texas A&M’s Nic Scourton and Shemar Stewart were also considered at this spot, but Ezeiruaku’s college dominance and consistent improvement over four seasons give him the edge.
Looking Ahead
With free agency and the NFL Combine still ahead, draft projections will shift in the coming weeks. However, one thing is clear—the Lions must continue investing in their defense to reach the next level. If they land a player like Ezeiruaku, Detroit’s defensive front could become one of the most feared in the league.
Stay tuned for more draft updates as the Lions gear up for another exciting season.
Mock Draft 1.0: Lions Select Ultra-Productive Edge in 2025 Projection
