3 Best Fits for the Detroit Lions in the First Round of the NFL Draft

With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the Detroit Lions find themselves in a position of strength—an unfamiliar but welcome feeling for fans who’ve endured years of rebuilds, heartbreaks, and missteps. Under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions have emerged as a gritty, physical team that doesn’t just hope to win anymore—they expect to. After reaching the NFC Championship Game last season, expectations are sky-high heading into 2025. While the core of the roster remains intact, the draft presents an opportunity to fill critical needs, add young depth, and potentially land a future star. The Lions currently hold the No. 29 overall pick in the first round, and while they’re no longer drafting at the top, they’re in a prime spot to land a key contributor who fits their tough, blue-collar identity. Here are three prospects who represent the best fits for Detroit in the opening round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Lions this offseason has been how they’ll address the secondary. While the unit improved last year, it still lacked the shutdown ability that could make the defense elite. Emmanuel Moseley’s injury woes, the inconsistency of Jerry Jacobs, and the reliance on young players like Brian Branch left Detroit exposed against top-tier passing attacks. That’s why a versatile, physical cornerback like Iowa’s Cooper DeJean would be an ideal fit. DeJean brings a rare combination of athleticism, football IQ, and toughness that aligns perfectly with the Lions’ culture. He can play outside, in the slot, or even at safety, giving Aaron Glenn’s defense the flexibility it needs. His ability to read quarterbacks, support in run defense, and contribute on special teams makes him a potential Swiss Army knife for Detroit. If he’s still on the board at No. 29, the Lions would be hard-pressed to find a better blend of value and immediate impact.

Another area where the Lions could look to fortify is the defensive line, specifically edge rusher. Aidan Hutchinson has blossomed into a cornerstone player, but there’s a clear need for a consistent threat opposite him. That’s where Penn State’s Chop Robinson comes in. He’s not just one of the best names in the draft—he’s one of the most explosive athletes off the edge. Robinson’s burst, bend, and motor would make him a terrifying complement to Hutchinson, giving the Lions a dynamic pass-rushing duo that could wreak havoc in the NFC North for years. He’s raw in some aspects, particularly in run defense, but Detroit’s coaching staff has proven adept at developing young talent. Pairing Robinson with Hutchinson would allow the Lions to rotate their edge defenders and keep everyone fresh late into the season, which could be the difference between another deep playoff run and falling just short. The Lions have done a great job building a foundation on toughness, and adding a player with Robinson’s tenacity would only reinforce that identity.

Finally, one position that hasn’t received as much attention—but quietly remains a sneaky need—is the interior offensive line. Jonah Jackson departed in free agency, and while the Lions still have talent in Frank Ragnow and Penei Sewell, ensuring protection for Jared Goff and creating consistent running lanes for Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery is critical. That’s why Duke’s Graham Barton could be a home-run pick. Barton played tackle in college but projects as a guard or center at the NFL level due to his size and skill set. His footwork, awareness, and nasty streak in the run game make him a prototypical Lions lineman. Detroit has built its offensive identity in the trenches, and Barton fits the mold of the high-IQ, high-effort player they covet. He would provide immediate competition at left guard and could eventually become a long-term solution at center if Ragnow’s injuries become a concern. Investing in the offensive line isn’t flashy, but it’s how teams sustain success in January.

The Lions are no longer desperate to fill glaring holes with lottery-ticket picks. This is a franchise in control of its destiny, guided by a front office that has nailed the draft in recent years. From Hutchinson to Branch to Gibbs to Sam LaPorta, the Lions’ recent first- and second-rounders have made immediate, franchise-altering contributions. That’s what makes this year’s draft so important. Detroit doesn’t need to draft for hope—they can draft for fit, projection, and culture. All three of these prospects—DeJean, Robinson, and Barton—offer unique skills that could elevate the Lions in different ways. Whether it’s shoring up the secondary, bringing more heat off the edge, or continuing to dominate in the trenches, Detroit has the opportunity to strengthen its identity with another impact rookie.

Of course, nothing in the NFL Draft is ever guaranteed. Players slip, boards change, and trades happen. Brad Holmes has already proven he isn’t afraid to move around on draft night to get his guy. If DeJean starts to fall into the 20s, don’t be surprised if the Lions trade up a few spots to secure him. Likewise, if an unexpected name drops to No. 29—someone like Georgia tight end Brock Bowers or LSU wideout Malik Nabers—it could throw the whole board into chaos. But assuming the draft unfolds somewhat predictably, Detroit’s path to maximizing its first-round pick comes down to marrying value with culture. That’s what these three prospects represent.

Cooper DeJean is a tone-setter who can immediately elevate the secondary. Chop Robinson brings edge speed and pass-rushing ability that defenses have to scheme against. Graham Barton reinforces the trenches and adds insurance for one of the league’s best offensive lines. Any of them could step in and contribute right away, which is critical for a team looking to contend—not just compete—in 2025.

The key for the Lions isn’t chasing headlines. It’s finding football players who love the game, embody grit, and can thrive in a system built on accountability and toughness. That formula has worked so far, and Detroit fans should expect more of the same on draft night. Whether the pick ends up being a dynamic defensive back, an electric pass rusher, or a rock-solid lineman, it’s about staying true to the identity that’s brought the Lions back to relevance.

In a league defined by parity, the best teams are those that stack smart decisions year after year. The Lions, at long last, are doing just that. And in a few short weeks, they’ll have another chance to prove that this new era of Detroit football isn’t a fluke—it’s the foundation of something special.