By Blessing 
In his latest mock draft, Mel Kiper Jr. offers an intriguing glimpse into the Detroit Lions’ options as they approach the 28th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With several high-value defensive linemen still available, the Lions are in a prime position to boost their defense, a topic that has captured the attention of many fans. However, what stands out most in Kiper’s mock draft is the number of talented players Detroit could potentially select from, making this a fascinating and crucial decision for the team’s future.
Before the Lions get their turn at No. 28, several defensive line prospects have already come off the board, including edge rushers and defensive tackles. Among the first 27 picks, six defensive linemen are selected, with a strong emphasis on edge rushers. Notable picks include:
- EDGE Abdul Carter (3rd overall to the Giants)
- DT Mason Graham (5th overall to the Jaguars)
- EDGE Jalon Walker (8th overall to the Panthers)
- EDGE Mike Green (15th overall to the Falcons)
- DT Derrick Harmon (21st overall to the Steelers)
- EDGE Mykel Williams (23rd overall to the Packers)
Despite the fact that six defensive linemen are already off the table, the depth of this year’s defensive line class still gives the Lions plenty of solid options to consider at the 28th spot. Some of the most intriguing choices include:
- Boston College EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku
- Texas A&M EDGE Shemar Stewart
- Tennessee EDGE James Pearce Jr.
- Michigan DT Kenneth Grant
Let’s take a closer look at these prospects and how they could fit with the Lions’ needs.
First, there’s James Pearce Jr., a player whose performance has raised some eyebrows. While Pearce posted an impressive 17.0 sacks last season, questions have emerged about his overall fit with Detroit. Critics have pointed to concerns about his work ethic, as well as his struggles with run defense—a crucial aspect for a three-down player. Despite his sack numbers, Pearce might be a better fit for other teams in need of an edge rusher who can focus on pass rushing alone.
On the other hand, Donovan Ezeiruaku has become a favorite for many Lions fans, and it’s easy to see why. With 16.5 sacks last year, Ezeiruaku has proven his ability to rush the passer. At 6-foot-2 and 248 pounds, he’s slightly undersized for an edge rusher, but his long arms (with an impressive 82.75-inch wingspan) allow him to keep blockers at bay and remain effective against the run. Additionally, his leadership is undeniable, having served as a two-time team captain—exactly the kind of player the Lions tend to value.
Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M is another intriguing prospect, though his story is a bit different. While Stewart had a somewhat underwhelming college career, recording just 4.5 sacks over three years, he made a significant impression at the NFL Combine. Stewart’s combination of size, strength, and speed makes him an exciting prospect for any team looking for an edge setter who can dominate the run game. Though his sack numbers don’t jump off the page, his elite burst and physical traits give him a high ceiling with the right development.
Lastly, Kenneth Grant, a massive defensive tackle from Michigan, is another player the Lions might consider. While the team currently has depth at the nose tackle position, with DJ Reader, Roy Lopez, and Brodric Martin already on the roster, none of them are guaranteed to be around in 2026. Grant’s exceptional run defense could be exactly what the Lions need, and his ability to rush the passer makes him an appealing option. His versatility, which allows him to play both as a nose tackle and potentially as a three-technique, could give Detroit some flexibility, especially if they need to cover for Alim McNeill early in the season.
Ultimately, Kiper’s decision in his mock draft lands on Ezeiruaku as the Lions’ pick at No. 28. According to Kiper, “Ezeiruaku jumped to No. 21 in my recent Big Board update, meaning he’d not only take care of that pass rush need but also do so at value.” With his 65 pressures last season, which led all of FBS, Ezeiruaku turned those pressures into 16.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to be a difference-maker on defense.
Later in Kiper’s two-round mock draft, the Lions are back on the clock at No. 60, where he predicts they will select NC State offensive lineman Anthony Belton. Belton, a massive 6-foot-6, 336-pound lineman, played left tackle for the Wolfpack for three years. However, Kiper believes that Belton’s future in the NFL might be as an interior lineman, where his size and strength would be better utilized. “Belton (6-foot-6 and 336 pounds) has played all but 11 of his 2,146 career snaps at left tackle. However, he could slide inside in the pros—and the Lions might opt for that in Year 1,” Kiper writes.
In the end, while the Detroit Lions have a multitude of defensive line prospects to consider, Ezeiruaku’s combination of pass-rushing ability, football character, and leadership qualities makes him a solid choice for Detroit at No. 28. Whether they continue to focus on defense or mix in an offensive line upgrade, the Lions are poised to make a selection that could help reshape their future.