NFL Draft expert Dane Brugler recently released his full 7-round mock draft for 2025, and his first-round projection for the Detroit Lions raised some eyebrows. Instead of targeting a more obvious need, Brugler gave the Lions Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston with the 28th overall pick—an unorthodox move considering the team’s recent investments in the position.
The Lions selected Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft and bolstered their secondary in free agency with the signings of D.J. Reed, Avonte Maddox, and Rock Ya-Sin. With that in mind, cornerback doesn’t appear to be a pressing need, which makes Brugler’s choice surprising. However, his pick may speak to a bigger philosophy within the Lions organization: selecting the best player available, regardless of immediate depth chart concerns.
Hairston is a standout athlete. He reportedly ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash and posted a nearly 40-inch vertical jump, showcasing the type of explosiveness that NFL teams covet. On the field, he displays strong instincts and ball skills in coverage. However, questions remain about his tackling and physicality—traits that head coach Dan Campbell typically emphasizes. Despite these concerns, Hairston’s raw athletic ability and upside may have been too tempting to pass up.
This selection continues a trend for General Manager Brad Holmes, who has consistently prioritized talent and long-term value over short-term need. Even if Hairston doesn’t start immediately, he adds valuable depth to a secondary that struggled with injuries in 2023. Plus, his speed and versatility make him a potential asset on special teams or in sub-packages.
Brugler didn’t stop with Hairston. His mock also included several other intriguing names for Detroit: Ohio State EDGE JT Tuimoloau in the second round, West Virginia OL Wyatt Milum in the third, Oregon linebacker Jeffrey Bassa in the fourth, and Georgia defensive tackle Nazir Stackhouse in the sixth. He rounded out the draft with San Jose State WR Nick Nash and Navy safety Rayuan Lane III in the seventh.
While the first-round pick might not match popular projections, Brugler’s full draft haul offers balance across offense and defense. If even a few of these prospects pan out, the Lions could continue building one of the deepest and most complete rosters in the NFL.
