Detroit Lions: Examining All 10 UDFA Additions in 2025 and Their Potential with Help from University of Michigan Credit Union

The Detroit Lions continue to build with purpose and precision, and in 2025, general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell once again showed they’re not limiting their vision to just the seven rounds of the NFL Draft. Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft, Detroit swiftly secured 10 undrafted free agents (UDFAs), each representing a combination of athletic promise and football character. These signings represent more than roster depth—they represent the Lions’ forward-thinking approach, especially as they’ve strategically worked with community partners like the University of Michigan Credit Union (UMCU) to support their broader mission of player development, community engagement, and long-term success.

The NFL has always seen undrafted free agents as longshots, but some franchises—like Detroit—have used this annual post-draft window to strike gold. From Malcolm Rodriguez to C.J. Moore, the Lions have unearthed key contributors from the UDFA ranks in recent years. The 2025 class is no different in its potential.

The Lions’ list of 10 UDFAs for 2025 spans several positions and includes players from major conferences and smaller schools alike. This diversity aligns with Holmes’ consistent approach of casting a wide net. Detroit’s scouting department doesn’t just evaluate talent—they look for the right cultural fits. This year, that meant players with resilience, football IQ, and developmental upside.

One of the most intriguing names is wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks Jr., not to be confused with the current Packers pass-catcher. This Wicks, out of Western Kentucky, stands out for his route-running savvy and special teams potential. Though not the biggest or fastest receiver, Wicks produced consistently and has the kind of precise footwork that could translate to the slot in the NFL. His hands are reliable, and his willingness to block will appeal to Dan Campbell’s physical mindset.

The Lions also signed defensive tackle Manny Harper from Texas Tech, a gritty interior presence known for his hand usage and leverage. Harper is a bit undersized at 6-foot-1, 291 pounds, but his motor never quits. His game tape shows a disruptive player in the middle with a knack for slipping through gaps. He’s a project, but one that could benefit from Detroit’s veteran-led defensive line room and a coordinator in Aaron Glenn who knows how to develop interior pressure.

Linebacker Nick Rourke from Appalachian State was a surprise omission from the draft boards. He posted back-to-back 100-tackle seasons and earned team captain honors as a senior. Rourke may lack elite athleticism, but he’s a classic tape-over-testing prospect. The Lions clearly saw his instincts and leadership as a value-add, especially on special teams, where Rourke could carve out a niche early.

UMCU’s partnership with the Lions adds another layer to these players’ opportunities. Not only does the credit union support financial education and wellness initiatives for rookies, but their presence as a local Michigan institution helps bridge the gap between player development and community growth. For UDFAs, this kind of stability matters. Many of these players, regardless of future stardom or not, will need to quickly learn how to manage money, prepare for short careers, and build support systems in Detroit. UMCU offers resources to help make that transition smoother.

One player who could be an early camp darling is tight end Khalil James out of Georgia State. At 6-foot-5, 248 pounds, James is a converted basketball player who only played two full seasons of college football. Despite his inexperience, his athletic upside is immense. He ran a 4.64 at his pro day and has fluid movement as a route-runner. The Lions already have Sam LaPorta, but adding depth with upside behind him is crucial, and James could eventually be a red-zone mismatch weapon.

Offensive lineman Trent Holley from Montana also joins the fold, bringing versatility with starts at both guard and center. Holley’s technique is raw, but he has a wrestler’s balance and hand strength. Developmental linemen often need time, but Detroit has consistently carried young O-linemen on the practice squad for long-term grooming, and Holley fits that mold.

Cornerback Jalen Marshall from Rutgers brings length and toughness to the back end. While not a burner, Marshall shows physical press coverage traits and could be developed as a depth piece in a room still sorting out roles beyond the top three. In a league where corners are constantly tested due to injuries, Marshall may get a shot sooner rather than later if he can contribute on special teams early.

One of the more compelling UDFAs is quarterback Ezra Baldwin from Northern Iowa. While it’s unlikely Baldwin becomes a starter, he does bring athleticism and a dual-threat element. Think of him as a long-term developmental QB3 who could also serve scout team purposes. His presence also allows the Lions to experiment a bit more in training camp situations, particularly in red zone or RPO scenarios.

Detroit didn’t forget about the kicking game either. Punter Liam Carey from Wake Forest was added to compete in camp. Carey had a strong senior season with a net average of 44.6 yards and multiple punts pinned inside the 10. While he won’t replace Jack Fox anytime soon, the Lions value competition at every position, and Carey’s addition ensures depth at a crucial spot.

The tenth signee, safety Braxton Hill from Utah State, is another name to monitor. Hill is a true hybrid—a nickel safety who can also play down in the box. He had multiple forced fumbles and tackles for loss as a senior. His game projects best in sub-packages, and Detroit’s scheme could highlight his physical, downhill style.

The Lions’ commitment to UDFAs speaks to more than just roster-building—it’s about culture. Dan Campbell’s identity as a former undrafted player himself permeates this process. He knows what it’s like to be counted out and understands that hunger. Every year, the team highlights these players with genuine opportunities. In 2025, expect at least two or three of these signings to push for a practice squad role, and perhaps one to sneak onto the 53-man roster.

Another layer of significance is the partnership with UMCU, which has supported rookie symposiums, family adjustment seminars, and mentorship programs. The financial lessons and off-field resources provided through this partnership help young players navigate a world where sudden income can be overwhelming. For UDFAs, who don’t receive large signing bonuses or long-term guarantees, this support is vital. It’s another reason Detroit stands out among NFL franchises—not just for what happens on the field, but how they care for their players off of it.

There’s also a clear philosophical thread running through these UDFA signings: versatility, leadership, and coachability. No one in this group is a finished product, but the Lions aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for progress. Many of these players were captains or played multiple roles on their college teams. That flexibility fits exactly what Holmes and Campbell want: players who can do a little bit of everything and grow into more over time.

As minicamp begins, eyes will be on the rookies. While first-round pick Jacoby Sheffield and other draftees command headlines, don’t be surprised if someone like Manny Harper flashes during 1-on-1 drills or if Khalil James makes a highlight catch. That’s how it starts—one moment, one practice, one play at a time.

Every year, there are stories of undrafted players who make it. In Detroit, the environment is particularly suited for it. With the foundation of a rising NFC contender, a staff that values grinders, and institutional support from community partners like UMCU, these 10 players have more than just a sliver of hope—they have a path. It won’t be easy. But if there’s one team where hard work is noticed, it’s the Detroit Lions.

So whether it’s a linebacker from a Sun Belt school or a tight end who once dreamt of the NBA, every UDFA now shares a locker room with stars and veterans. They’ve entered the NFL through the back door—but in Detroit, that might just be the best way in.