The Detroit Lions had a dominant run during the 2024 regular season but fell short in the playoffs, losing to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round.
Despite making key moves in free agency and preparing for the return of star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit still has gaps to address in the upcoming NFL Draft. Brad Berreman of SideLion Report believes the team could secure a major draft steal next month.
In his latest seven-round mock draft, Berreman predicts that the Lions will surprisingly land Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart in the second round.
“An NFL talent evaluator told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that Stewart ‘stamped himself’ as the best player at the Senior Bowl,” Berreman noted. “Though listed as an edge rusher, Stewart is highly versatile and can line up anywhere on a defensive front. He has the potential to become the player Detroit envisioned Josh Paschal to be and what Onwuzurike ultimately turned into last season.”
Landing Stewart would be a significant boost for the Lions, but the likelihood of him still being on the board at pick No. 60 is slim.
The 21-year-old has been generating buzz as a potential top-10 selection, thanks to his raw athleticism and upside rather than overwhelming college production.
During the 2024 season, Stewart recorded 31 tackles, six tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks, bringing his total collegiate sack count to 4.5.
However, at 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds with elite physical traits, Stewart has the tools to develop into a dominant NFL player.
Whether he ends up in Detroit remains uncertain, but if the Lions manage to add another pass rusher of his caliber alongside Hutchinson, it would be a massive win for the defending NFC North champions.
