2025 NFL Draft Preview: 5 Defensive Tackles That Could Interest the Lions

As the Detroit Lions look to continue their rebuild in 2025, the team has made notable strides in improving its offense, but the defense remains an area that needs attention. Specifically, the defensive line is a priority, and the Lions could find their next game-changer at the defensive tackle position in the 2025 NFL Draft. A dominant defensive tackle can disrupt the opposing offense, control the line of scrimmage, and change the momentum of a game. With that in mind, let’s take a look at five defensive tackles that could catch the Lions’ attention and help them build a more formidable defense for years to come.

1. Jalen Carter – Georgia

Jalen Carter is one of the most highly touted defensive prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Playing for one of the top programs in the nation, Carter has demonstrated the ability to dominate at the collegiate level with Georgia. He is a versatile defensive tackle who can play both inside and on the edge, showcasing his ability to rush the passer while also being a force in the run game. His explosive first step off the line of scrimmage, combined with his strength and quickness, makes him a nightmare for offensive linemen.

Carter’s performance in key games throughout his college career has further solidified his status as one of the top prospects in this class. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ makes him a perfect fit for the Lions’ defensive scheme. Detroit is in need of a player who can generate pressure in the middle of the defensive line, and Carter fits that mold perfectly.

What sets Carter apart is his ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line. He can line up as a traditional defensive tackle or shift to a more versatile 3-4 defensive end role if needed. Carter’s ability to adapt to various fronts and schemes gives the Lions flexibility in how they use him, whether they need a strong anchor in the run game or a disruptive force against the pass.

While Carter’s on-field play has been nothing short of spectacular, some off-the-field concerns have emerged, particularly regarding his consistency in maintaining peak physical condition. However, with the right coaching and leadership, these issues can be addressed. Given his immense potential, Carter is a player that the Lions could select early in the first round, depending on how their draft positioning shakes out.

2. Bryce Youngblood – Alabama

Another standout defensive tackle prospect who could catch the Lions’ eye is Bryce Youngblood out of Alabama. While not as well-known as some of the other top defensive prospects, Youngblood has quietly put together an impressive college career. His ability to stop the run and generate pressure up the middle makes him an attractive option for a team like Detroit, which has struggled to consistently stop the run in recent seasons.

Youngblood is a true workhorse in the trenches, combining a high motor with exceptional strength and leverage. His ability to hold his ground against double teams while still pushing the pocket is a rare skill set that many teams covet. Additionally, he has the quickness to break free from offensive linemen and cause havoc in the backfield. His pass-rushing ability may not be as polished as some of the other top defensive tackles in the class, but his raw potential as a run-stuffer and interior disruptor is undeniable.

What makes Youngblood particularly intriguing is his versatility. He can play both defensive tackle positions in a 4-3 front, and his experience in Alabama’s multiple defensive schemes gives him a leg up in terms of adaptability. Youngblood is a player who could step in and make an immediate impact in Detroit, especially as the Lions continue to bolster their defensive front.

3. Marvin Robinson – Michigan

Marvin Robinson is one of the top in-state prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, and his ties to Michigan could make him a natural fit for the Lions. Robinson has been one of the most consistent and disruptive forces on Michigan’s defensive line over the past few seasons. A 6’4″, 320-pound powerhouse, Robinson has the size and strength to be a force in the run game while also possessing the agility to collapse the pocket and generate pressure on the quarterback.

Robinson’s combination of power and quickness makes him a versatile player who can be used in various defensive schemes. He is at his best when he is able to take on blockers one-on-one, using his strength and technique to overpower them. However, he has also shown the ability to disengage from blockers quickly and change direction, which allows him to be effective in pursuit of the quarterback.

The Lions are a team that values toughness and physicality on both sides of the ball, and Robinson’s playing style embodies those qualities. His ability to disrupt the run game, collapse the pocket, and generate interior pressure would make him an ideal fit for Detroit’s defense. Additionally, his familiarity with the Big Ten and its style of play would help him transition to the NFL with relative ease. If the Lions are looking to add a powerful, disruptive defensive tackle to their roster, Robinson could be a great fit.

4. Isaiah Goodwin – Texas A&M

Isaiah Goodwin is one of the most intriguing defensive tackles in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing in at over 330 pounds, Goodwin has the physical tools to be a dominant force on the defensive line. However, what sets him apart from other prospects is his ability to move with surprising agility for his size. Goodwin can anchor the defensive line against the run but is also quick enough to chase down quarterbacks and disrupt the passing game.

Goodwin’s development over the past two seasons has been remarkable. While he struggled early in his college career with technique and consistency, he has made significant strides in refining his skills. His explosiveness off the line and ability to generate pressure up the middle make him an intriguing prospect for the Lions. With a high ceiling and the potential to develop into an elite defensive tackle, Goodwin could be a player that Detroit takes a chance on in the first or second round.

One of the key attributes that make Goodwin such a compelling prospect is his ability to play both as a traditional 4-3 defensive tackle and as a 3-4 defensive end. His versatility allows the Lions to experiment with different defensive schemes and find the best way to use his talents. With Detroit looking to build a defense that can get after the quarterback and stop the run, Goodwin could be a great addition to the roster.

5. DeAndre Jackson – Florida

DeAndre Jackson from the University of Florida is one of the top defensive tackles in the 2025 draft class, and his potential fits the Lions’ needs. Jackson’s motor is one of the first things that stands out on tape. He never stops working to shed blocks and get to the ball, showcasing relentless pursuit of the play. He may not have the raw strength of some of the other prospects, but his high energy and impressive lateral quickness make him a dangerous player in both the pass rush and run defense.

Jackson is particularly effective in short-yardage situations, where he can use his agility and smarts to beat offensive linemen. While he is still working on refining his pass-rush technique, his ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt plays in the backfield is evident. Jackson’s tenacity and effort give him a very high floor, making him a dependable option who could contribute immediately in a rotation or as a starting defensive tackle.

While Jackson may not have the ideal size that some teams prefer in a traditional defensive tackle, his motor and high football IQ compensate for that. For a Lions team in need of a hard-nosed defensive presence, Jackson could be a great complement to other defensive line talent. His quickness and energy would help keep offensive linemen on their heels and make life more difficult for opposing quarterbacks and running backs.

The 2025 NFL Draft will provide the Detroit Lions with several opportunities to improve their defensive line, and there are a number of talented defensive tackles who could make an immediate impact. Whether the Lions opt for a player like Jalen Carter, who can dominate both as a run defender and pass rusher, or a high-effort player like DeAndre Jackson, who offers relentless pursuit and versatility, each of these prospects brings something unique to the table. With the right selection, the Lions can continue to build a defense that can complement their rising offensive unit and push them toward playoff contention.