Daniel Jeremiah Identifies Ideal Draft Target for Lions
Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has a track record of making bold moves during the NFL Draft—he’s traded up in three of his four first-round selections since taking over. With the Lions currently holding the 28th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Holmes may once again be looking to make a move—especially if a top defensive talent begins to fall.
NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah believes the perfect scenario for Detroit involves Georgia EDGE Jalon Walker slipping out of the top 10. According to Jeremiah, Walker is the type of dynamic defender who could inspire the Lions to make a big jump up the board.
“They’d have to be truly sold on one of these pass rushers to make that kind of move,” Jeremiah explained. “But if there’s a dream scenario, it’s Jalon Walker slipping a bit. People might overthink his hybrid role and start to let him fall. If I’m the Lions and he drops outside the top 10, I’d be very tempted to go up and get him. That’s the kind of elite player you make aggressive moves for.”
Why Jalon Walker Could Be the Right Fit for Detroit
Adding another pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson is arguably Detroit’s biggest need going into the draft. Walker brings versatility, elite athleticism, and explosive potential—three traits that both Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell value highly.
Walker played multiple roles in Georgia’s defense, lining up inside, outside, and as a stand-up edge rusher. His ability to be a flexible chess piece could make him a seamless fit in Detroit’s evolving defense. If he begins to slide, don’t be surprised if the Lions’ front office gets ready to pounce.
Dane Brugler’s Breakdown of Walker
In his draft guide The Beast, NFL draft expert Dane Brugler described Walker as a high-upside defender with impressive growth throughout his college career. He noted that Walker led Georgia in key pass-rushing stats in 2024—including 34 pressures and a 17.2% pass-rush win rate—despite not being used exclusively as an edge defender.
“Walker lined up in a variety of roles under Kirby Smart, including inside linebacker and edge,” Brugler wrote. “While he can struggle to win with power, his speed and wingspan give him real juice off the edge. He has the athletic traits to excel in space and make impact plays near the line. Coverage is still a work in progress, but he’s a unique talent who thrives when attacking downhill.”
Although he lacks prototypical size for a full-time EDGE, Walker’s physical tools and positional flexibility make him one of the most intriguing defenders in this draft class.
Bottom Line: Watch Out for Holmes to Make a Move
One thing’s clear—Brad Holmes doesn’t shy away from bold moves. If Jalon Walker is still on the board after the first 10 picks, the Lions could be aggressive in moving up to secure him. It may be a long shot, but for a front office that has shown it’s not afraid to act, this scenario is very much in play.
