Lions Eye Alabama’s Dominant Lineman as Key First-Round Option in Draft Projections

Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Mocked by: Adam Rank (NFL), Mike Randle (FTN Fantasy)
A dynamic edge rusher, Ezeiruaku makes sense as both a need and a high-value pick if he’s still available at 28. He dominated last season under a new, NFL-savvy coaching staff, earning All-American honors and winning ACC Defensive Player of the Year. With 16.5 sacks, 21 TFLs, and three forced fumbles, he showed both explosiveness and reliability. At 6’3” and 248 pounds, he offers solid run defense and the length to grow even more in that area.

Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
Mocked by: Dane Brugler (The Athletic)
Although Detroit invested heavily in cornerbacks last year and revamped the secondary in free agency—adding DJ Reed and retaining Amik Robertson—Hairston’s elite athletic traits can’t be ignored. He ran a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash and clocked a top-end speed of 24.25 mph. However, his struggles in man coverage and limited slot reps raise questions about his first-round value. If he slips into the second round, though, he’d be a much more reasonable target.

Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
Mocked by: Joe Schad (Palm Beach Post)
Scourton, a former Purdue standout who led the Big Ten in sacks before transferring to Texas A&M, remains an intriguing option. Though his sack numbers dipped last season, he showed flashes of advanced pass-rush techniques and played at a versatile 280 pounds (down to under 260 at the Combine). Still just 20 years old, his youth and upside make him a strong developmental option for Detroit’s defensive line.

Tyler Booker, iOL, Alabama
Mocked by: Michael Fabiano (SI), Nate Davis (USA Today), Mike Band (NFL)
Booker is a frequent projection to the Lions due to their need at guard after losing Kevin Zeitler in free agency. With Graham Glasgow aging and Christian Mahogany still unproven despite showing promise, Booker would be a significant addition. At 6’5”, 321 pounds, he didn’t give up a single sack last season and is viewed by some—like The Athletic’s Dane Brugler—as the top interior lineman in the draft. He’s only 21 and looks NFL-ready from Day 1.

Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
Mocked by: Josh Edwards (CBS), Nick Wright (Fox Sports), ESPN’s Field Yates & Mel Kiper
Once considered a top-tier talent, Williams has slid on some boards due to an ankle injury last year. Still, his raw power, size (6’5”, 267 lbs), and 82-inch wingspan are hard to overlook. If he drops to the Lions, this could be one of those picks you make without hesitation. Williams brings intensity and athleticism, traits that should translate quickly to the pro level.

Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
Mocked by: Ryan Novozinsky (NJ.com)
Although linebacker isn’t an obvious need, with Detroit already investing in the position—highlighted by Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, and veterans like Alex Anzalone—Campbell’s skillset is enticing. He’s an instinctive blitzer, excellent in pursuit, and fast enough to mask any coverage development. While not a need-based pick, his versatility and high motor could make him a fun and valuable rotational player in a crowded room