Detroit Lions post-Super Bowl 7-round 2025 mock draft…

As the Detroit Lions prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, they aim to build upon a remarkable 15-2 regular season that, despite its success, ended prematurely in the divisional round of the playoffs. General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell are focused on addressing key areas to enhance the team’s performance and sustain their competitive edge.

Draft Picks Overview

The Lions possess several picks in the upcoming draft:

• Round 1: 28th overall
• Round 2: 60th overall
• Round 3: Compensatory pick (exact position TBD)
• Round 4: 133rd overall
• Round 6: 198th overall (via trade with Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
• Round 7: 230th overall (via trade with Dallas Cowboys)
• Round 7: 246th overall

These selections provide the Lions with opportunities to address critical needs and add depth to their roster.

Identifying Team Needs

Analyzing the current roster and upcoming free agency, the Lions’ primary areas of focus include:

1. Edge Rusher: With injuries affecting key players like Aidan Hutchinson and the potential departure of free agents such as Marcus Davenport, bolstering the pass rush is imperative.
2. Interior Defensive Line: The uncertain status of Alim McNeill, recovering from an ACL injury, and the possible exit of Levi Onwuzurike highlight the need for reinforcements in the defensive interior.
3. Cornerback: The potential loss of Carlton Davis to free agency and the overall depth in the secondary necessitate attention to the cornerback position.
4. Wide Receiver: While Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams provide a strong foundation, additional talent is needed, especially with several receivers entering free agency.
5. Interior Offensive Line: The offensive line’s interior faces questions due to potential free-agent departures and the need for depth to protect quarterback Jared Goff.

Round 1, Pick 28: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M

Shemar Stewart, a 6-foot-6, 285-pound defensive end from Texas A&M, offers the size and athleticism desired in an edge rusher. His ability to disrupt the backfield and complement Hutchinson makes him a valuable addition. Stewart’s collegiate performance showcased his prowess in both pass rushing and run defense, aligning with the Lions’ defensive schemes. citeturn0news32

Round 2, Pick 60: Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Deone Walker, a Detroit native and Cass Tech High School alumnus, stands at 6-foot-7 and 340 pounds. His imposing presence in the interior defensive line addresses the Lions’ need for a formidable run-stopper. Walker’s agility and strength were evident during his tenure at Kentucky, making him a promising prospect to fortify the defensive front. citeturn0search5

Round 3, Compensatory Pick: Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech

Dorian Strong brings a combination of size and skill to the cornerback position. At 6-foot-1 and 179 pounds, he has demonstrated proficiency in both man and zone coverage schemes. Strong’s ball skills and physicality at the line of scrimmage make him a suitable candidate to enhance the Lions’ secondary depth. citeturn0search2

Round 4, Pick 133: Pat Bryant, WR, Illinois

Pat Bryant offers the Lions a reliable receiving option with his 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame. His senior season at Illinois was marked by 984 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and provide a red-zone threat. Bryant’s physicality and route-running skills complement the existing receiving corps. citeturn0search2

Round 6, Pick 198: Dylan Fairchild, G, Georgia

Dylan Fairchild addresses the need for depth in the interior offensive line. During his tenure at Georgia, Fairchild allowed minimal pressures, demonstrating his capability in pass protection and run blocking. His addition provides valuable competition and insurance along the offensive front. citeturn0search0

Round 7, Pick 230: Teddye Buchanan, LB, California

Teddye Buchanan offers versatility and depth to the linebacker unit. Transferring to California after a productive stint at UC Davis, Buchanan showcased his coverage skills and tackling efficiency. His football intelligence and adaptability make him a valuable late-round selection. citeturn0search0

Round 7, Pick 246: Joey Hobert, WR, Texas State

Joey Hobert provides additional depth to the receiving corps. His progression at Texas State, marked by improved hands and yards after catch, highlights his potential as a reliable target. Hobert’s work ethic and on-field awareness align with the Lions’ culture and offensive needs. citeturn0search0

Strategic Considerations

The Lions’ draft strategy reflects a commitment to strengthening both the defensive and offensive units. By focusing on the trenches and adding playmakers, Detroit aims to build a resilient team capable of sustaining success. The selections of Stewart and Walker address immediate defensive concerns, while the additions of Bryant and Hobert provide quarterback Jared Goff with more weapons.

General Manager Brad Holmes has demonstrated a keen eye for talent and a willingness to make strategic moves during the draft. While this mock draft does not include trades, the possibility of Holmes maneuvering to acquire additional picks or target specific players remains. The Lions’ proactive approach in free agency,