Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions didn’t have glaring holes to address. Coming off a 2024 campaign where they were arguably the league’s most complete team, the front office was simply looking for a few upgrades. A reinforcement at guard was one possibility, but bolstering the defensive line—either with a dominant edge rusher or a forceful interior presence—was likely a priority.
When star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson went down early last season, Detroit managed to hold strong despite losing a major component of its pass rush. Hutchinson’s ability to wreck plays is undeniable, but relying solely on him isn’t sustainable. Adding another young, explosive player on the edge—or someone who can consistently collapse the pocket—would take pressure off Hutchinson and elevate the entire defense.
