Detroit Lions’ Playoff Heartbreak and the Path Forward in the 2025 NFL Draft

A Season of Highs and a Crushing Playoff Exit
The Detroit Lions enjoyed a stellar regular season, cementing themselves as one of the NFL’s elite teams. However, their postseason aspirations came to a shocking and devastating end in the divisional round. After earning a first-round bye, the Lions were stunned by the Washington Commanders in a game that left fans and analysts in disbelief. Now, with free agency in the rearview mirror, all eyes turn to the 2025 NFL Draft as Detroit looks to reload and make another run at the Super Bowl.

Targeting a Dynamic Playmaker
The Lions have built one of the most complete rosters in the league, but there remains a glaring hole at wide receiver. A new mock draft from A to Z Sports has Detroit selecting Missouri’s Luther Burden, an electrifying offensive weapon who could provide a much-needed boost to their passing attack. While Burden was once considered the top wide receiver prospect in this draft class, his production dipped in 2024, raising some concerns about his fit in the Lions’ system.

Assessing Luther Burden’s Potential Impact
Burden exploded onto the college football scene with a breakout 2023 season, racking up 1,212 yards, nine touchdowns, and 86 receptions. However, his numbers saw a significant decline in 2024, as he posted just 676 yards and six touchdowns on 61 catches. Despite this regression, Burden’s talent remains undeniable, and his ability to create plays after the catch could make him a valuable addition to Detroit’s offense.

Is Burden the Right Fit for Detroit?
While Burden’s skill set is impressive, his playing style closely resembles that of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, two key pieces of Detroit’s receiving corps. The Lions may be better served by targeting a bigger, more physical wide receiver who excels in contested catch situations. Arizona’s Tetatoria McMillan fits this mold perfectly, offering the size and ability to dominate in one-on-one matchups. However, acquiring McMillan may require a trade-up, something the Lions have been willing to do in the past when they identify a player they truly covet.

A Critical Draft Decision Looms
The 2025 NFL Draft presents a pivotal opportunity for Detroit to reinforce its roster and take the next step toward championship contention. Whether they choose Burden, McMillan, or another top prospect, the Lions must make a calculated decision that maximizes their offensive firepower and complements their existing playmakers. After a heartbreaking playoff exit, the urgency to get this pick right has never been higher.