Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes has a well-known affinity for drafting players from Alabama, a trend that has continued since he took over in 2021. Over the past few drafts, he has selected Jameson Williams (1st Round), Jahmyr Gibbs (1st Round), Brian Branch (2nd Round), and Terrion Arnold (1st Round) from the Crimson Tide. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, there’s speculation that Holmes may once again pick a player from Alabama, especially with the Lions holding the No. 28 pick (or possibly higher if they trade up).
In Dan Parr’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft 1.0 on NFL.com, he predicts that the Lions will use their No. 28 pick to select LB/EDGE Jihaad Campbell from Alabama. Holmes has consistently chosen at least one Alabama player in each of the last three drafts, and Parr suggests that Campbell would continue this trend. Campbell is a dynamic and versatile defender who can rush the passer on the edge and potentially play off-ball linebacker in the future.
However, it’s important to note that while Campbell is listed as an LB/EDGE, his primary role in the NFL might not be as an edge rusher. This raises the question of whether the Lions should prioritize a linebacker in the first round, given their more pressing needs for defensive linemen (both EDGE and DT) and possibly offensive linemen (if Kevin Zeitler doesn’t re-sign). Brad Holmes, though, has always emphasized selecting the best available player, regardless of team needs. If Campbell is still on the board when the Lions pick at No. 28, it’s likely that he will be strongly considered.
