Now that the 2025 NFL Draft is in the rearview, it’s clear some Detroit Lions players are in a better spot than others — and two veterans on the defensive line quietly walked away as the biggest winners of the weekend.
Marcus Davenport is the most obvious beneficiary. Despite questions about the Lions’ depth at EDGE, Detroit passed on drafting a top-tier pass rusher in the early rounds and only added a developmental prospect late. That means the Lions are betting big on Davenport to be a major contributor opposite Aidan Hutchinson this year. It’s a prove-it season for him, and the opportunity couldn’t be clearer.
On the interior, DJ Reader also comes out ahead. With Alim McNeill working his way back from injury, there was concern Reader might have to shoulder a heavy load. But the addition of Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams changes that. Reader won’t have to be the every-down answer — instead, he’ll be part of a deeper rotation, giving him fresher snaps and a chance to mentor the promising rookie.
The Lions might have brought in new blood, but for these two vets, the draft results set them up for key roles in a 2025 campaign filled with high expectations.
