Lions Eyeing Promising Prospects: Higgins and Savaiinaea Could Bolster Detroit’s Ranks
As the Detroit Lions navigate the remaining rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, two names that have surfaced as potential targets are wide receiver Jayden Higgins and offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea. Both players possess intriguing skill sets and could address specific needs for a Lions team looking to build on their recent success. Following their first-round selection of defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, Detroit will be aiming to add talent that complements their existing roster and contributes to their aspirations of becoming a consistent contender in the NFC.
Jayden Higgins, a towering presence at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds, brings a compelling blend of size and surprising speed to the wide receiver position. His production at Iowa State speaks volumes, where he hauled in 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns in the 2024 season, ranking him among the top receivers in the nation. Higgins isn’t just a big body; his 4.4 speed, demonstrated at the NFL Combine, showcases his ability to stretch the field and create separation. Scouts have lauded his impressive catch radius, reliable hands (with a remarkably low drop rate), and his knack for making contested catches, traits that would undoubtedly make him a valuable target for quarterback Jared Goff.
Higgins’ route running is considered diverse, with experience running go, hitch, out, slant, post, dig, and crossing routes. While his release off the snap is noted as average and he could refine his explosiveness after the initial cut in his routes, his smooth running style, excellent balance, and well-developed footwork allow him to gain separation even in tight coverage. His awareness in zone coverage and his ability to adjust to off-target throws further enhance his appeal. Moreover, Higgins displays physicality after the catch, often picking up extra yards by dragging defenders. His clean injury history at Iowa State and his standout performance at the Senior Bowl practices underscore his readiness for the rigors of the NFL.
For the Detroit Lions, adding a receiver with Higgins’ profile could provide a significant boost to their offense. While Amon-Ra St. Brown has established himself as a premier slot receiver, and Jameson Williams offers game-breaking speed, the Lions could benefit from a big-bodied receiver with reliable hands who can win in contested situations and provide a consistent target in the red zone. Higgins’ ability to play both inside and outside would offer offensive coordinator Ben Johnson flexibility in his formations and play-calling. His blocking prowess for a receiver is also a notable strength, aligning with the Lions’ emphasis on players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
On the other side of the ball, Jonah Savaiinaea presents an intriguing option to bolster the Lions’ offensive line. At 6-foot-4 and 324 pounds, Savaiinaea is a massive interior blocker with experience playing both guard and tackle at Arizona. His versatility is a significant asset, having started games at right guard, right tackle, and left tackle during his collegiate career. This adaptability would be highly valued by the Lions, who prioritize players capable of filling multiple roles along the offensive line, especially with gameday roster restrictions.
Savaiinaea is known for his raw power and his ability to generate movement in the running game. His low center of gravity, good bend, and ideal weight distribution allow him to maximize his strength. He exhibits a strong lower body, making it difficult for defenders to push the pocket against him in pass protection. His awareness against blitzes and exotic rush packages is also commendable. While primarily a zone-run blocker, he possesses enough gap-scheme experience to fit into various offensive systems.
Scouting reports suggest that Savaiinaea’s best fit in the NFL might be at guard, where his lack of elite length and agility, which can be exploited by quicker edge rushers at tackle, would be less of a concern. His powerful punch and hand accuracy are significant strengths in pass protection, and his functional strength allows him to move defenders effectively in the running game. While he needs to improve his consistency in sustaining blocks and refining his technique, his raw physical tools and positional versatility make him a high-potential prospect.
The Detroit Lions lost veteran guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency, creating a potential need for interior offensive line depth and future starting potential. Savaiinaea’s ability to step in and compete at guard from day one could be invaluable. His powerful build and run-blocking capabilities align well with the Lions’ physical offensive identity. Adding a player with his versatility would also provide insurance at multiple offensive line spots, a crucial aspect for any team aiming for long-term success.
Both Jayden Higgins and Jonah Savaiinaea offer compelling reasons for the Detroit Lions to consider them in the upcoming rounds of the NFL Draft. Higgins provides a rare combination of size and speed at wide receiver, addressing a potential need for a consistent boundary threat and red-zone target. Savaiinaea brings positional versatility and raw power to the offensive line, potentially filling a void at guard and offering valuable depth at tackle. As the draft unfolds, the Lions’ decisions will reveal their strategy for continuing to build a roster capable of competing at the highest level of the NFL. The potential additions of Higgins and Savaiinaea could prove to be significant steps in solidifying their offense and overall team strength.
