Recent reports indicate that the Detroit Lions are keeping a close eye on a UCLA edge rusher as they prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Jeff Risdon of Lions Wire shared that multiple sources have linked the Lions to UCLA’s Femi Oladejo. While Oladejo brings intriguing qualities to the table, his production as a pass rusher has been limited throughout his collegiate career. Over four seasons, he registered only six sacks, with 4.5 of them coming in his senior year. However, part of this can be attributed to his transition from linebacker to the edge position during college.
Despite his modest sack numbers, Oladejo made an impact in other areas. He posted 91 total tackles as a sophomore and finished his college career with 240 tackles. Additionally, he recorded 14 tackles for loss in his final season. His athleticism was on display at the NFL Combine, where he achieved a 36.5-inch vertical jump—ranking fifth among edge rushers—and a 10-foot broad jump.
Teams considering Oladejo will likely be drawn to his potential rather than his current pass-rushing abilities. While he may not be a solution to Detroit’s immediate pass-rush needs in 2025, the Lions, like many teams, will have to weigh their options carefully in a draft class filled with prospects who have certain limitations. With more than a month left before draft day, Detroit may already have a frontrunner in mind for their edge-rusher selection.
