Lions’ Defensive Line Still a Concern as Draft Approaches
The Detroit Lions are heading into the next phase of the offseason with a significant gap in their defensive line, particularly at defensive end. Despite the efforts to bolster their defense, the Lions haven’t prioritized adding a veteran pass rusher in free agency. With Marcus Davenport coming off an injury-plagued two years, and Za’Darius Smith unexpectedly released, there’s little depth at defensive end. Although Aidan Hutchinson remains a standout player, the other edge position remains uncertain.
This lingering need has led many to believe that the Lions will turn to the 2025 NFL Draft to address the issue, potentially using their No. 28 pick on a talented edge rusher. One such prospect that has gained attention is Donovan Ezeiruaku, the 2024 ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Ezeiruaku impressed scouts with his combine performances, notably excelling in the 3-cone drill and short shuttle, which highlighted his agility and athleticism. His impressive college production—16.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss—along with his physical traits, make him a strong candidate for the Lions to consider as they look to fill a key roster void.