Speaking in Absolutes: The Detroit Lions and Their Next Big Pick

A New Draft Prediction Speaking in absolutes may be a trait of the Sith, but when it comes to the NFL Draft, bold predictions can sometimes feel just as decisive. Last year, after the NFL Combine, I walked away with absolute certainty that Sione Vaki was destined to be a Detroit Lion. Everything about him—his skill set, his personality, and the Lions’ needs—aligned perfectly.

Now, after a week at the 2025 NFL Combine, I’ve found another player who gives me that same undeniable feeling. I’m ready to make a bold guarantee: Ole Miss linebacker Chris “Pooh” Paul is the next Lion. If I’m wrong, so be it. But if I’m right, I’m buying a Powerball ticket.

Why Chris Paul is the Perfect Pick The Lions’ interest in Paul is unmistakable. Detroit has already met with him twice in February alone. Their first meeting took place at the Shrine Bowl, and then they conducted a formal interview with him early in the week at the Combine. This is eerily similar to how they pursued Vaki last year, first meeting with him at the Senior Bowl and then holding a formal interview a few weeks later.

Beyond the meetings, Paul’s own words confirm how well he fits into the Lions’ culture. Speaking about his experience with the coaching staff, he expressed a deep appreciation for the team’s emphasis on personal character and relationship-building.

“So I had a formal with them Monday night, and it went pretty good. The thing that stood out to me was they wanted to learn about me as a person. They wanted to learn about who I was off the field, and that’s important to me because I’m big on bonds. I like building bonds on and off the field. If I can build a bond off the field, then I’m going to fight for you each and every Sunday. Learning about someone off the field really shows you a lot and shows someone’s character that way. As well as that person’s ‘why.’ Why are you here? Why are you standing here? That’s something that stood out to me.”

That response aligns perfectly with what Detroit looks for in a player. The Lions have built their team around the idea of playing for something bigger than themselves. Paul fits that mold to perfection.

Why the Lions Would Draft Paul At first glance, linebacker doesn’t seem like an immediate need for the Lions. However, the situation is more uncertain than it appears. Derrick Barnes’ future remains unclear—he could return, but there’s a chance he follows Aaron Glenn to New York or signs elsewhere. Meanwhile, Alex Anzalone only has one year left on his contract, and he’ll be 32 when the 2025 season begins.

The Lions need a plan for the future at linebacker, and Paul could be the answer. He brings a blend of skills that make him a perfect fit. Like Anzalone, he can blitz effectively and shoot through gaps to disrupt plays. At the same time, he has sideline-to-sideline speed, reminiscent of Derrick Barnes.

Additionally, with the recent release of Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Detroit may be looking to reload at linebacker regardless of what happens with Barnes.

Where Will He Be Drafted? Currently, Paul is projected as an early third-round pick. However, the Lions could very well select him with their 60th overall pick at the end of the second round. If they pass on him there, they might trade up in the third round to secure him—just as they did with Vaki last year.

One thing is clear: Chris “Pooh” Paul has all the makings of a future Detroit Lion. The interest is there, the fit is undeniable, and the need is more pressing than it appears. If history repeats itself, expect Paul to be donning the Honolulu blue in 2025.