The Detroit Lions are expected to reinforce their defensive front in the 2025 NFL Draft, potentially selecting a dynamic pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projects that Detroit will use their 28th overall pick on Tennessee’s James Pearce, a highly athletic edge rusher who could help solidify the team’s pass rush.
Since general manager Brad Holmes took over in 2021, the Lions have prioritized building their team from the trenches. His first major selection was right tackle Penei Sewell, a move that has since paid dividends. Now, with both offensive and defensive line depth being areas of concern, Holmes appears poised to bolster the defense once again.
Pearce’s Potential Fit in Detroit
Kiper believes that Pearce could be the ideal partner for Hutchinson, giving the Lions a formidable pass-rushing duo. Detroit made a midseason move for veteran Za’Darius Smith last year, and while he contributed four sacks in eight games, his long-term future with the team remains uncertain.
“Pearce could be the answer opposite Aidan Hutchinson,” Kiper wrote. “Besides figuring out how to stay healthy, the second edge rush spot was the Lions’ biggest question last season. They traded for Za’Darius Smith, and while he was solid, a younger, more consistent presence is needed to elevate Detroit’s pass rush. Pearce only recorded 7.5 sacks in 2024, but his 19% pressure rate ranked second in the FBS, demonstrating his ability to disrupt quarterbacks even when not getting sacks. He combines elite burst and power, making him a nightmare for offensive tackles.”
A Proven Pass Rusher with Elite Athleticism
Pearce was one of college football’s most efficient edge rushers, finishing his three-year career at Tennessee with 19.5 total sacks. His performance in 2024 was particularly impressive, earning him a Pro Football Focus pass rush grade of 89.4 and 55 total pressures.
However, it was his NFL Scouting Combine performance that truly solidified his stock as a first-round prospect. Pearce displayed elite speed for a pass rusher, running a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, a time more commonly seen from defensive backs than edge defenders.
“I do want to show people who the best defensive player in this draft is,” Pearce told reporters at the combine. “On the football field, I don’t like when people try to underrate my ability—I know I’m a great player.”
If drafted by Detroit, Pearce would immediately add explosiveness and versatility to the defensive line, potentially helping the Lions take the next step toward Super Bowl contention.
