The Detroit Lions are riding high after a breakout season, but if there’s one area that still needs serious work—it’s getting after the quarterback. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, Detroit’s been linked to several edge rushers, but two names in particular are raising eyebrows: Mykel Williams from Georgia and Shemar Stewart out of Texas A&M.
At first glance, both have the physical tools that make scouts drool. But according to a recent CBS Sports “buyer beware” draft breakdown, there’s reason to be cautious.
Let’s start with Shemar Stewart. He’s a freak athlete—no denying that. But his game tape tells a different story. The pass-rush toolbox just isn’t there yet. As CBS’s Chris Trapasso put it, Stewart has “God-given ability” but struggles to translate that into consistent, impactful play. With only an 11.6% pressure rate in college, there are questions about how long it would take for him to develop into an NFL-ready edge rusher.
Then there’s Mykel Williams. He’s been mocked to Detroit by the likes of Mel Kiper, and on paper, he fits the mold of what the Lions need. But there are issues here, too—namely, a high pad level when rushing, limited explosiveness, and a pass-rush technique that still needs polish. Trapasso noted that while Williams flashes some finesse, he doesn’t consistently beat blockers with his hands. And at the NFL level, that’s a must.
Both Stewart and Williams have potential, no doubt. But with the Lions inching closer to a real Super Bowl window, can they afford to roll the dice on prospects who may take time to develop?
It’s clear Detroit wants to bolster the defensive front—especially after bringing back Marcus Davenport on a one-year deal—but if Brad Holmes and company are looking for impact players right now, they may want to think twice before pulling the trigger on these two.
Risk vs. Reward: Lions’ Potential Draft Picks Raise Concerns
