Detroit Lions’ Linebacker Depth: A Challenge for Drafting, But a Prospect They Love Could Change Everything
As the Detroit Lions approach the 2025 NFL Draft, one of the most intriguing positions to assess is linebacker. The Lions have been active in building depth at this position, which could complicate their decision-making come draft day. However, despite the promising depth chart, there is a clear opportunity for the team to strengthen this position with a game-changing prospect, if the right player is available. While linebacker may not be the top priority for the Lions, a standout prospect could very well influence the team’s approach, making the decision to draft a linebacker much more tempting.
Over the past several seasons, the Detroit Lions have steadily worked to build a competitive defense. General Manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have recognized the importance of fortifying the team’s defensive unit, and they have focused on building a strong foundation across all levels. One of the key positions they have reinforced is linebacker, where they now boast considerable depth.
In recent years, the Lions have made moves to solidify their linebacker corps with a blend of experience and youth. Veteran leadership, alongside young talent, has helped create a balanced and formidable group in the middle of Detroit’s defense. This progress has been essential in their journey to becoming a competitive team in the NFC North.
While linebacker is undoubtedly important, the Lions’ current depth makes it unlikely they will target this position early in the draft unless a special player falls into their lap. Detroit has invested resources into this area, including the drafting of promising young players and the signing of proven veterans. As such, the team enters the 2025 NFL Draft with an already solid linebacker group. However, as with any position on the roster, there are always opportunities to upgrade, and the Lions are no exception. If the right player emerges—someone who can immediately make an impact or elevate the defense—the Lions may be forced to make a tough decision.
Before diving into the specifics of potential linebacker prospects, it’s important to analyze the current state of Detroit’s linebacker depth. The Lions have a solid starting trio, with a blend of experience and athleticism. Veteran linebackers have helped anchor the group, providing stability and leadership, while younger players bring energy and promise for the future.
The starting linebackers for the Lions are headed by a veteran presence who can manage the entire defense, alongside up-and-coming talent with the speed, range, and versatility to make a difference on the field. One of the key attributes of this group is their ability to cover ground, both against the run and in pass coverage. This balance allows the Lions to be flexible with their defensive scheme, adapting to various offenses across the league. The coaching staff has made it clear that they value linebackers who can do it all: blitz, cover running backs out of the backfield, and drop into pass coverage to help defend against tight ends or wide receivers.
With this depth in mind, the Lions would have to be in love with a linebacker prospect to take one early in the draft. The current state of the roster and the depth already established in the position group means that a typical linebacker selection is not a glaring need. That being said, the Lions are in the business of selecting the best player available—especially when it comes to building a championship-caliber team. So, if a linebacker prospect emerges with elite athletic traits, outstanding leadership, and the ability to immediately elevate the defense, the Lions may view this player as too good to pass up.
While linebacker is not an area of need, there are certain scenarios in which the Lions could consider drafting a linebacker earlier than anticipated. If a prospect with a unique skill set or incredible upside falls to them in the draft, it would be difficult for the Lions to resist the opportunity. Perhaps a linebacker with exceptional coverage skills who can make an immediate impact in the passing game or a player with an uncanny ability to disrupt the quarterback would be enough to convince Detroit that this is the type of player who could push their defense to the next level.
An ideal prospect for the Lions would be someone who brings a unique combination of size, speed, and football IQ—traits that would seamlessly fit into the Lions’ defensive scheme. The ability to cover ground in coverage, blitz the quarterback, and read the game would all be important factors for Detroit as they look for an impact linebacker. While there may be other positions that take priority in the draft, a linebacker who possesses these rare traits could very well be too good to pass up.
While the current linebacker depth is formidable, the NFL is a league where teams are always looking to improve and gain an edge. The Lions are no different in this regard. They will be constantly evaluating every position on the roster, including linebacker, to ensure they are fielding the best possible team on Sundays. If they find a linebacker who offers something truly special, it would make sense for them to consider selecting that player—even if the position is not a major area of need.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it will be interesting to see how the Lions approach their linebacker group. It’s clear that they have already invested heavily in the position, but there is always room for improvement, especially if the right player becomes available. Detroit’s defensive plans are ambitious, and selecting the right linebacker prospect could play a key role in their continued development as a team.
The next few months will provide insight into which linebacker prospects might fit the Lions’ vision for their defense. Teams with strong depth at a particular position often end up with more flexibility in the draft, and this could be the case for Detroit as they look to fine-tune their roster. Whether they choose to double down on linebacker depth or address other areas, the Lions will undoubtedly weigh their options carefully as they evaluate the top linebacker prospects available.
While it may not be their most pressing need, linebacker remains an important position for the Lions—one that could become a focal point if the right prospect falls to them. This flexibility gives Detroit the luxury of being patient, knowing that they have an established group but also have the option to add elite talent if it aligns with their long-term goals. The success of their 2025 draft class will depend on making the right decisions, especially when it comes to selecting players who can fit seamlessly into their defensive scheme and enhance their chances of success moving forward.
The Lions’ linebacker position is a good example of the fine line between depth and need in the NFL draft. On the surface, it may seem like a position Detroit doesn’t need to prioritize. But, with the right prospect, this group could be elevated to another level, and the team could find a future star that they can build around for years to come. It all depends on whether or not the perfect fit is available when the Lions are on the clock.
As the draft nears, the Lions will continue their deep evaluations of the top linebacker prospects, keeping in mind their already strong roster and assessing whether any of these players possess the rare qualities that would make them an immediate difference-maker. While linebacker may not be a glaring need, it is always valuable to add a potential game-changer to the roster. The 2025 NFL Draft will provide an exciting opportunity for the Lions to continue building a defense that can compete at the highest level, and if the right linebacker is available, they may just take that next step in creating a championship-caliber team.
