Sunday, December 22, 2024

2025 Mock Draft Round Up #4

PFN Infante (32. Tyler Booker, G, Alabama:  An offensive lineman for the Lions? What? There’s no denying how good Detroit’s offensive line is, but Kevin Zeitler (who turns 35 in March) isn’t a long-term answer at right guard.  Tyler Booker is a bit raw regarding his hand placement and spatial awareness, but his physical traits are undeniable. He’s a monster of a man with impressive power that’s proportioned well throughout his frame. He moves quite well for such a big guy, too. If there’s any organization that could maximize Booker’s physical talents, it’s the Lions.  64. Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina:  When healthy, Aidan Hutchinson should form a tremendous edge-rushing duo with Za’Darius Smith. The latter is more of a stopgap starter than a long-term option, though, so adding a young edge rusher in the 2025 NFL Draft should be a priority for the Lions.  South Carolina’s defensive line is full of athletic freaks, and Kyle Kennard might end up being the highest-drafted of the bunch out of those eligible for this year’s class.  Kennard is an athletic edge rusher with quick and active hands and the production to match. He leads the SEC with 11.5 sacks this season.  131. Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State.  133. (Comp) Sebastian Castro, S, Iowa.  195. Jordan Hancock, CB, Ohio State.  227. Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State.  247. Tyreem Powell, LB, Rutgers) (12-21-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/7-round-2025-nfl-mock-draft-infante-december-2024/

Walter football Charlie (32.  Mike Green, DE, Marshall:  The Lions could use more rotational edge rush talent and defensive line depth. Plus, Za’Darius Smith, and Josh Paschal will be in the last year of their contracts in 2025. Here’s a rusher to go with Aidan Hutchinson, Smith, and Paschal.  Green has been a monster for the Thundering Herd this season, with a ton of big plays for the Marshall defense. Thus far in 2024, Green has 17 sacks with three forced fumbles, 81 tackles, and two passes batted. The 6-foot-4, 248-pounder is very fast and explosive off the edge. In 2023, Green had 43 tackles with 4.5 sacks and one forced fumble.  64. OG Donovan Jackson:  The Lions could use some youth at guard and Kevin Zeitler is entering free agency.  The 6-foot-4, 300-pound Jackson has been a tough blocker for the Buckeyes over the past few seasons. He is reliable to open holes in the ground game and does a steady job of protecting his quarterback. Jackson shows good enough feet and athleticism to handle speed rushers with the strength in his base to anchor against bull rushes. Jackson looks like a safe pick to turn into a solid pro starter.) (12-20-24):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2025charlie_1.php?rbTop

SN Iyer (31. Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU (6-3, 315 pounds):  The Lions know that Taylor Decker is a 31-year-old pending free agent. Should they decide to go ahead and flip the dominant Penei Sewell to the left side to take over, Jones would be the ideal young right tackle to start right away opposite him.) (12-19-24):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2025-travis-hunter-ashton-jeanty-quinn-ewers/54df18fe3bc8b39e60d174e2

CBS Edwards (31. DE LT Overton:  LT Overton is still a work in progress, but the presence of Za'Darius Smith for the short-term allows them to make a long-term move on a pass rusher with major promise. Learning from Aidan Hutchinson and Smith as a rookie is like getting an advanced degree in pass rushing.) (12-19-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-rookie-quarterbacks-drake-maye-bo-nix-and-jayden-daniels-get-offensive-help/

Athlonsports Easterling (31. JT Tuimoloau | EDGE | Ohio State:  Another fit I just can't let go of, the Lions desperately need a three-down edge defender to line up opposite Aidan Hutchinson, and Tuimoloau was a perfect fit last year before he decided to go back to school. This time around, he'll be even more polished and experienced, ready to make an immediate impact for a Super Bowl contender.) (12-19-24):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2025-nfl-mock-draft-shedeur-sanders-cam-ward-las-vegas-raiders-new-york-giants-travis-hunter

Walter football (32. Detroit Lions: J.T. Tuimoloau, DE:  The Lions acquired Za’Darius Smith, but they need another edge rusher for the long term.  J.T. Tuimoloau has flashed some great pass-rushing potential, but must be more consistent.  64. Detroit Lions: Donovan Jackson, G:  The Lions are great because of their offensive line. They could stand to add a young guard to eventually take over for one of the veterans.  Donovan Jackson is a tough blocker with upside.) (12-18-24):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2025_1.php

CBS Trapasso (31. DT Walter Nolen: The Lions add more beef to the interior of their defensive front with the surging Nolen, who was tremendous inside at Ole Miss in 2024.) (12-18-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-browns-take-chance-on-qb-in-top-10-disappointing-bengals-and-dolphins-address-key-needs/

Draft Tek (31. DE Kyle Kennard:  The Bills seem to be pushing toward the front of the AFC pack with another three-plus-touchdown win over the recent Super Bowl favorite 49ers. Sure, the 'Niners have fallen off as of late, but this was the Bills fourth win of 21+ points in 2024. The Bills look dominant on the offensive side of the ball as the running game has truly clicked with the new-look offensive line. Joe Brady has done a great job of mirroring the run-game in play action and read-option looks which keep the defense guessing and open up second-level passing plays.While the Amari Cooper to Josh Allen hook-and-ladder was amazing, I am more confident in this team's ability to find a groove and dictate terms to opponents.  Defensively, it's clear that Sean McDermott is fine giving up chunk plays vs the run. He's basically saying, 'If you can keep up with our offense on the ground, go ahead.' While this defense works against many opponents, I do get nervous about playing teams like the Ravens and Lions in the playoffs. Getting DT Dwayne Carter back may help against the run, but I wouldn't say I'm nearly as confident in the defense as I am the offense. Oh and by the way...a certain guy named 'Hyde' is back. Wahoo! -Kennedy Paynter, Senior Draft Analyst (@Kennedy_Paynter on Twitter)  63.  DT Omarr Norman-Lott.  131. WR Ja'Corey Brooks.  197. S Xavier Watts.  231. OG Miles Frazier.  248.  LB Deshawn Pace) (12-18-24):  https://www.drafttek.com/2025-NFL-Draft-Team-Pages/Lions-Draft-Page.asp

PFN Hoffman (32. Detroit Lions
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan:  Kenneth Grant is poised to tackle a critical issue for the Detroit Lions’ defensive line. Having been a linchpin for Michigan’s defense alongside Mason Graham over the last few seasons, Grant has consistently overwhelmed opponents. His aggressive bull-rush technique allows him to swiftly collapse the pocket, pressuring quarterbacks into making quick decisions.  While his primary strength is stopping the run, Grant’s toolkit and technique suggests he has the potential to develop into an effective NFL pass rusher.) (12-17-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2025-nfl-mock-draft-december-hoffman/

Tankathon (31. WR Isaiah Bond.  63. DE Donovan Ezeiruaku) (12-16-24):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock_draft

Draft Network Sanchez (31. James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee:  The Detroit Lions are the hottest team in the NFL and have a great culture. They have every reason to be Super Bowl favorites. If there is any reason the Lions may lose before reaching the Super Bowl, it would be their lack of pass rushers. With Aidan Hutchinson being out, it is becoming more obvious that they need to draft another guy. So with this pick, the Lions go with edge rusher James Pearce Jr., an explosive EDGE who will pay dividends early as a pass rusher.) (12-16-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/12/15/nfl-mock-draft-2025-december-nfl-week-15

CBS Wilson (31. DE Jack Sawyer:  Jack Sawyer is listed at 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds and is coming off a five-sack 2024 season that includes 28 hurries. Used almost exclusively off the edge for the Buckeyes, he flashes the speed-to-power of a first-round pass rusher who is also stout setting the edge in the run game.) (12-16-24):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-giants-raiders-select-only-two-qbs-to-go-in-round-1-bears-add-talented-pass-rusher/

PFN Jones (32. Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas: The Lions need to find a pass-rushing partner for Aidan Hutchinson. Standing at 6’7” and weighing 280 pounds, Landon Jackson possesses the physical attributes necessary for success in the NFL. With consecutive seasons of 6.5 sacks at Arkansas, the Razorbacks edge rusher showcases a strong motor, active hands, and intense physicality. Those traits combine well with his impressive size.) (12-14-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2025-nfl-mock-draft-december-jones/

Draft wire Risdon (32. Detroit Lions: Landon Jackson, DE, Arkansas) (12-12-24):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/2024/12/nfl-straight-up-picks-week-15-steelers-eagles-seahawks-packers

Fox sports Rang (32. Detroit Lions (8-1): Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State - Even before the tragic injury to star pass rusher Aiden Hutchinson, Sawyer likely would have been a favorite of Lions’ GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, as he plays with the hustle, desire and instincts they crave. Sawyer isn’t the flashiest athlete – which is why some scouts see him as more of a Day Two candidate - but he’s battle-tested and dependable.) (12-12-24):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2025-nfl-mock-draft-travis-hunter-shedeur-sanders-go-1-2

SI Flick (32. Lions Biggest needs: Edge, WR, CB - The pick: Landon Jackson, Edge, Arkansas.  The Lions are winners of 11 consecutive games, and losing star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson to a season-ending leg injury hasn’t derailed Detroit’s immediate success. However, the Lions need another piece opposite Hutchinson, and the 6'7", 280-pound Jackson makes plenty of sense. His frame, physicality and consistent production over the past three seasons at Arkansas have him firmly in the first-round mix. He totaled 9.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, 38 pressures and eight quarterback hits this year.) (12-11-24):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2025-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-every-team

CBS Renner (32. LB David Walker: Lions GM Brad Holmes has been excellent not only with his top picks, but also digging deep for hidden gems. David Walker doesn't quite qualify as "hidden" considering he's put up 30 sacks the past three seasons, but even that doesn't explain his dominance. He's an unrepentant bully on tape who could create so many opportunities for others on the Lions front with his ability to push the pocket.) (12-10-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-raiders-giants-take-only-qbs-selected-in-round-1-travis-hunter-lands-in-afc/

PFN Gosling (32. Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M:  Aidan Hutchinson was leading the NFL in sacks and pressure rate when he fractured his tibia and fibula in Week 6. While he will be ready for the 2025 campaign, the Lions have to add more help around the former No. 2 overall pick. Marcus Davenport suffered a season-ending triceps injury in Week 3 and is on an expiring deal.  Levi Onwuzurike has split time between DT and DE to account for Huthcinson’s absence, but he’s also a pending free agent. Acquiring Za’Darius Smith from the Browns was smart, but he’ll be 33 years old next season and in the final year of his contract.  As a proactive athlete, it’s unfair to have Shemar Stewart’s blend of length, explosiveness, and density. He’s a 6’6”, 290-pound lab-built creation with untapped potential as a pass rusher and an athletic profile we haven’t seen since J.J. Watt. That’s not to say he’ll be Watt; that would be reckless. But he converts speed to power at an outstanding rate, and that is as translatable to the NFL level as pure juice and bend are.  He also provides interior alignment versatility, and he’s even no stranger to dropping into coverage.) (12-10-24):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2025-nfl-mock-draft-december-gosling/

Draft Network Harms (32. Detroit Lions - Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall.  Coming off of an injury, Aidan Hutchinson will need a partner in crime to terrorize opposing quarterbacks. Mike Green is an explosive, bendy athlete with a variety of pass-rush tools at his disposal. He'd be fun across from Hutchinson.) (12-8-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/12/08/nfl-mock-draft-2025-december-nfl-week-14

CBS Brockermeyer (32. DE Landon Jackson:  Jackson has improved steadily each season and has a massive frame that fits well on the edge but also allows for versatility to kick inside. He's long, possesses a strong pass-rushing repertoire, and plays with a relentless motor. Jackson's toughness aligns perfectly with the Lions' culture, making him an ideal fit for Detroit.) (12-4-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-former-first-round-pick-has-cowboys-adding-elite-playmaker-travis-hunter-landing-in-afc/ 

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (32. Detroit Lions – Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State.  After watching its edge rush be wiped out by a rash of injuries, Detroit surely won't want to be caught shorthanded again next season. Relying on hustle and physicality rather than speed and flexibility, Sawyer sizes up as a true Dan Campbell defender.) (12-4-24):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/12/04/nfl-mock-draft-2025-ashton-jeanty-dallas-cowboys/76737195007/

Athletic Brugler (32. Detroit Lions: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama:  With his do-everything skill set, Campbell’s effectiveness will be limited only by a defensive play caller’s lack of imagination. The Lions likely will have greater needs this offseason, but it wouldn’t be surprising if Dan Campbell bangs the table for this type of talent — if the Alabama product is still on the board this late in Round 1.) (12-4-24):  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5962974/2024/12/04/nfl-mock-draft-2025-quarterbacks-sanders-ward-hunter/

PFF Sikkema (32. Detroit Lions: OT Grey Zabel, North Dakota State - This pick feels quintessentially Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell. Kevin Zeitler and Graham Glasgow are nearing the twilight of their careers, and while Frank Ragnow’s toughness has kept him on the field, he’s dealt with a series of injuries over the last five years.  Enter Zabel, who embodies the grit and resilience Detroit values. A three-time state champion in high school and a standout at FCS powerhouse North Dakota State, Zabel plays tackle but likely projects to move inside, similar to Graham Barton. With NFL-caliber grip strength, football IQ, mobility, and toughness, Zabel is the perfect fit for the Lions’ trenches and screams “Detroit Lion.”  64. Detroit Lions: ED Jared Ivey, Ole Miss) (12-2-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2025-nfl-three-round-mock-draft-wr-cb-travis-hunter-and-qb-shedeur-sanders-go-no-1-and-no-2-new-york-giants-get-their-future-qb

Draft Network Eisner (32. Detroit Lions - James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee.  Lions fans are definitely sick of reading this, but it doesn't make it any less true: Aidan Hutchinson needs a running mate. James Pearce Jr. entered the season as the potential EDGE1 in the class but hasn't quite put it all together yet. Pearce Jr. has some things he needs to work on defending the run, but he's a stud on passing downs with the ability to make a major year-one impact.) (12-1-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/12/01/nfl-mock-draft-2025-december-nfl-week-13

Yahoo Tice/McDonald (32. Detroit Lions — J.T. Tuimoloau, Edge, Ohio State.  The Lions could go down a few paths here, maybe adding another offensive lineman to maintain their elite play in the future. Instead we go with Tuimoloau, a tough, pocket-pushing edge player who is productive against the run and pass. He fits the Lions' personality perfectly and would be another strong player upfront with Alim McNeill and Aidan Hutchinson.) (11-28-24):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2025-nfl-mock-draft-20-giants-take-a-qb-at-no-1-overall-and-heres-what-bears-do-with-top-10-pick-044422932.html

PFN Miller (32. Detroit Lions Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss:  If it feels like we’ve been down this road before with the Detroit Lions, it’s because we have. Princely Umanmielen plays with a little more natural strength than Julian Okwara, but he wins with similar explosiveness and bend.  However, we’ve spent years waiting for Umanmielen to assemble it. While he appears to have put together a nice package late in his collegiate career, that late breakout also makes his projection at the next level a bit muddy.  64. Detroit Lions Kyren Lacy, WR, LSU:  Kyren Lacy is a lot like the Rebels’ Harris, but with even less explosive potential and with an even clearer picture given the more complete route tree he’s asked to operate. Lacy built an immediate intimate rapport with Garrett Nussmeier, to the point where the inexperienced quarterback practically started forcing him the ball early in the season.  131. Detroit Lions
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State.  190. Detroit Lions
Tyler Onyedim, DT, Iowa State  224. Detroit Lions
Akili Arnold, S, USC  247. Detroit Lions

Sportskeeda Tony Pauline (32- Detroit Lions - Landon Jackson/DE/Arkansas: A quarterback at this spot is very enticing, but bringing in a tough, intense defensive end/edge rusher to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson makes too much sense.) (11-27-24):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/tony-pauline-s-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-shedeur-sanders-ashton-jeanty-head-nfc-east-afc-west-contenders-snag-cam-ward

Draft wire Popejoy (32 – Arizona Detroit Lions – G Tate Ratledge, Georgia) (11-27-24):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2025-nfl-mock-draft-update-shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-2/

PFF McGuiness (32. Detroit Lions: EDGE LT Overton, Alabama - Another popular projection in mock drafts will be an edge defender for the Lions, who traded for Za’Darius Smith following Aidan Hutchinson’s early-season injury.  Overton is on track for a career-best season, earning a 77.3 PFF pass-rush grade so far and tallying 31 total pressures on 218 pass-rushing snaps.) (11-25-24):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2025-nfl-mock-draft-three-quarterbacks-go-in-the-top-10-shedeur-sanders-new-york-giants

Draft Network Fowler (32. Detroit Lions
Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama:  Detroit has done a nice job replacing Jonah Jackson with Kevin Zeitler in free agency, but the former is 34 and on an expiring deal. In this spot, the team adds Tyler Booker, an elite-level athlete who can distort the line of scrimmage due to his hands and powerful lower half. He's not the sexy pick, as rumors continue to connect the Lions to a pass-rusher here, but the player, scheme, and mentality fit a Dan Campbell-type of ballplayer.) (11-24-24):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/11/24/nfl-mock-draft-2025-november-nfl-week-12

NBC Sports Conner Rogers (32. Detroit Lions - Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas.  At 6-7, 280 pounds, Jackson is a powerhouse edge rusher with knock-back strength. He can play standing up or with his hand in the dirt, making for a good running mate across from Aiden Hutchinson next year.) (11-20-24):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/2025-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-travis-hunter-at-top-qbs-cam-ward-shedeur-sanders-go-in-top-five

Round 1 (22 DE, 3 OG, 2 OT, 2 LB, 2 DT, 1 WR):

6 DE Landon Jackson
3 DE J.T. Tuimoloau
3 DE Jack Sawyer
2 DE James Pearce Jr. 
2 DE LT Overton
2 DE Mike Green 
2 OG Tyler Booker 
1 DE Shemar Stewart
1 DE Jalon Walker 
1 DE Princely Umanmielen
1 DE Kyle Kennard
1 OG Tate Ratledge
1 OT Grey Zabel
1 OT Emery Jones Jr.
1 LB Jihaad Campbell
1 LB David Walker
1 DT Walter Nolen
1 DT Kenneth Grant
1 WR Isaiah Bond

Round 2 (2 WR, 2 OG, 1 DT, 1 LB, 1 DE):

2 OG Donovan Jackson 
1 WR Kyren Lacy
1 DT Omarr Norman-Lott
1 DE Donovan Ezeiruaku
1 DE Jared Ivey
1 DE Kyle Kennard 

Round 4 (1 WR, 1 CB, 1 LB):

1 WR Ja'Corey Brooks
1 CB Azareye’h Thomas
1 LB Sonny Styles

Round 4 (Comp) (1 S):
 
1 S Sebastian Castro

Round 6 (1 S, 1 DT, 1 CB):

1 S Xavier Watts 
1 DT Tyler Onyedim
1 CB Jordan Hancock

Round 7 First Pick (1 OG, 1 S, 1 OT): 

1 OG Miles Frazier
1 S Akili Arnold
1 OT Jalen Travis

Round 7 Second Pick (3 LB):

1 LB Deshawn Pace
1 LB Kain Medrano
1 LB Tyreem Powell




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