The Detroit Lions might be eyeing another local standout in the 2025 NFL Draft, with Michigan cornerback Will Johnson emerging as a possible first-round selection.
Once projected as a top-five pick, Johnson made an immediate impression at Michigan with his elite combination of size, speed, and athleticism—traits that made scouts confident he’d succeed at the professional level. However, his stock has dropped due to multiple injuries that sidelined him for much of the 2024 season.
Despite those setbacks, Johnson remains a likely first-round pick. In his final mock draft released Wednesday, ESPN analyst Peter Schrager included Johnson among four Michigan players expected to be selected in the opening round. Schrager predicted that Detroit will pick Johnson with the 28th overall selection.
This scenario has generated a buzz among both Lions and Wolverines fans, evoking memories of Aidan Hutchinson—another homegrown talent who played at Michigan and became a key contributor for Detroit after being selected in the first round.
If Johnson follows a similar path, expectations are that he could make an immediate impact in Detroit’s secondary.
Commenting on the pick, Schrager noted:
“Johnson’s draft value has dipped slightly. He struggled with a foot injury during the season and missed Michigan’s pro day due to a hamstring issue. That said, he still has first-round talent and would pair nicely with Terrion Arnold at cornerback.”
