Detroit Lions 2025 Seven-Round Mock Draft: Bold Moves and Future Stars!

Introduction: Lions’ Big Moves at the NFL League Meetings

This week, the Detroit Lions made a major splash at the NFL league meetings, providing some inside insights into their plans for the upcoming draft. After engaging in an in-depth discussion with GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, we now have a clearer understanding of their strategy for the 2025 NFL Draft. And with that knowledge, it’s time to make some bold predictions. Let’s break down the Lions’ seven-round mock draft, making some moves that could significantly impact their roster and bring in game-changing players. Here’s how we see Detroit shaking things up this year.

Round 1: A Big Move to Secure EDGE Rusher Michael Williams

In a bold, aggressive move, the Lions trade up to the 11th overall pick by sending the 28th pick, the 102nd pick (third round), and next year’s first-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers. Why? To land one of the most promising edge rushers in this year’s draft class—Michael Williams from Georgia. This player is an absolute freak of nature, boasting long arms, a devastating swim move, and the ability to rush with power or finesse. Williams is one of the most polished edge defenders in the draft, and the potential for growth is immense. With Aidan Hutchinson already anchoring the Lions’ defensive line, Williams could form a terrifying duo that would make quarterbacks think twice. Detroit’s defense would immediately become one of the most feared units in the NFL.

Round 2: A Trade Down to Bolster the Offensive Line with Josh Connerly Jr.

After moving up in the first round, the Lions move down from the 60th pick to the 62nd pick in a trade with the Buffalo Bills, who are looking to secure a cornerback. In return, the Lions gain an additional fourth-round pick (173rd overall). With the 62nd pick, Detroit selects Josh Connerly Jr., a tackle from Oregon. This move addresses the team’s long-term needs on the offensive line. Connerly has been a three-year starter at left tackle, giving up only two sacks in his entire college career. While Taylor Decker remains a solid option, Connerly could eventually replace him or serve as a versatile swing tackle. This is a pick that provides immediate depth with the potential for future stardom.

Round 3: Adding Competition at WR with Pat Bryant from Illinois

At pick 130, the Lions continue to build depth by selecting Pat Bryant, a wide receiver from Illinois. Bryant’s toughness, ability to make contested catches, and exceptional blocking skills make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ offense, especially under Dan Campbell’s philosophy. Campbell has spoken about wanting more competition at the receiver position, and Bryant embodies what the team needs—a high-effort, reliable player who can also contribute as a blocker in the run game. His height and ability to win 50/50 balls add another dimension to the Lions’ receiving corps.

Round 4: Edge Rusher Ahmad Hassan from Boise State

With the 173rd pick, the Lions add another edge rusher to their depth chart with Ahmad Hassan from Boise State. Hassan’s athleticism and relentless motor make him a promising prospect who could grow into a key contributor in Detroit’s defense. Known for his impressive stats—62 pressures and 10 sacks last season—Hassan has versatility, capable of playing both inside and outside. A project player with a high ceiling, Hassan offers immediate pass-rush depth and potential as a disruptive force down the line.

Round 5: Tight End Jackson Haw from Georgia Tech

With the 196th pick, Detroit selects Jackson Haw, a tight end from Georgia Tech. Although the Lions recently signed Kenny Yaboa and brought back Shane Zylstra, adding another tight end with elite blocking skills is essential for their offense. Haw is one of the best run-blocking tight ends in the nation and fits the mold of what Dan Campbell desires—someone who loves to hit and block. While not a primary receiving threat, Haw adds invaluable depth and toughness to Detroit’s already-solid tight end group. His ability to impact the run game as a blocker cannot be overstated.

Round 6: Linebacker Shawn Dolac from Buffalo

At pick 223, the Lions go after Shawn Dolac, a linebacker from Buffalo who was the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Dolac has a unique combination of size and athleticism, finishing last season with 168 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 5 interceptions. Despite being slightly undersized, Dolac’s ability to cover, blitz, and make plays all over the field makes him a steal at this spot. The Lions love adding linebackers to their roster, and Dolac could become a key contributor on special teams and potentially a valuable depth piece at linebacker.

Round 7: Wide Receiver Brew McCoy from Tennessee

With their final pick, the Lions grab Brew McCoy, a wide receiver from Tennessee. McCoy hasn’t been a primary target for the Volunteers but has the athleticism and potential to develop into a versatile weapon. McCoy can contribute on special teams and provide depth at wide receiver, as the Lions continue to prioritize youth and competition in that position group. He’s a project player, but the upside is there for McCoy to develop into a solid contributor for the Lions in future seasons.

Conclusion: A Draft That Sets the Lions Up for Long-Term Success

This seven-round mock draft is a bold, strategic approach that addresses key areas of need for the Detroit Lions, including pass rush, offensive line depth, and adding talent to the receiver and tight end groups. Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have made it clear that they’re aiming for long-term success, and this draft class offers both immediate impact players and potential future stars. The aggressive moves to trade up and down show that the Lions are committed to making bold decisions to set the team up for a Super Bowl run. Fans should be excited, as this draft has the potential to reshape the roster and propel the Lions toward contention for years to come.