Lions Select Aidan Hutchinson’s ‘Partner’ in Kiper’s Mock Draft

The Detroit Lions are a team in transition, looking to build a sustainable and competitive defense. In recent years, the Lions have worked on revamping their roster, focusing on key positions that will allow them to be competitive in a tough NFC North division. One of the brightest stars emerging from their defensive roster is Aidan Hutchinson, a force on the edge with the potential to lead the defense for years to come. As the team looks ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, they are expected to address additional needs that will complement their established players, including Hutchinson.

One of the most intriguing storylines coming from ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft is the selection of a player who will serve as Hutchinson’s “running mate” on the defensive line. This strategic move, highlighted by Kiper’s mock draft, showcases the Lions’ long-term vision of building an even stronger defense. But who could this player be? Let’s explore how the Lions’ potential draft pick could shape the future of their defense and what this means for Hutchinson’s role.

Aidan Hutchinson: The Anchor of the Lions’ Defense

Aidan Hutchinson has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top young defensive players in the NFL. Drafted by the Lions in 2022 with the second overall pick, Hutchinson immediately brought a level of intensity and pass-rushing prowess that the team had been lacking for years. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and make game-changing plays has made him a cornerstone piece of the Lions’ defense.

In his first season, Hutchinson displayed his versatility, being able to rush from both defensive end spots while also dropping into coverage when needed. He finished his rookie campaign with 9.5 sacks, an impressive feat for a first-year player. Hutchinson’s leadership on and off the field has earned him the respect of his teammates, and he is already seen as the face of the defense. His work ethic, drive, and passion for the game have set the tone for the Lions’ rebuilding process.

However, Hutchinson’s individual success has not always translated into the type of dominant defensive play the Lions need as a team. While Hutchinson is undoubtedly a top-tier player, even the best pass-rushers require help in the trenches to truly be effective. This is where the idea of bringing in a “running mate” for Hutchinson becomes crucial.

The Need for a Dominant Defensive Line Partner

As strong as Hutchinson has been, the Lions’ defensive line remains a work in progress. Defensive coordinators often say that the key to a great pass rush is having multiple players who can apply pressure on the quarterback. Hutchinson may be able to win one-on-one battles, but without another top-tier rusher on the opposite side, he can often be double-teamed, limiting his effectiveness. This is why the Lions’ front office, led by general manager Brad Holmes, is likely to focus on bolstering the defensive line in the upcoming draft.

A strong defensive line is crucial to controlling the line of scrimmage and disrupting the opposing offense. While Hutchinson is already a game-wrecker, the Lions need a complementary player who can force offenses to account for both sides of the line. Ideally, this would be a player who excels in pass-rush situations but also has the ability to play the run effectively.

In Kiper’s mock draft, the Lions’ selection of Hutchinson’s “running mate” is a move that could take their defense to the next level. The draft choice will ideally provide a player capable of making an immediate impact, freeing up Hutchinson from facing constant double teams and creating more opportunities for both players to get to the quarterback.

Mel Kiper Jr.’s Mock Draft: Who Is the Lions’ Potential Pick?

Mel Kiper Jr. has been a staple of NFL draft analysis for decades, and his mock drafts are a trusted source for fans and analysts alike. In his most recent mock draft, Kiper has predicted that the Lions will use one of their first-round picks to select a player who will complement Hutchinson on the defensive line. The most likely candidates for this role are a mix of edge rushers and defensive tackles who can add immediate pressure to opposing quarterbacks.

**1. Edge Rusher: Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama)**

One of the top-rated prospects in this year’s draft is Will Anderson Jr., an edge rusher from Alabama. Anderson has been a dominant force in college football, showcasing his ability to rush the passer, set the edge in the run game, and disrupt offensive schemes. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 243 pounds, Anderson has the physical tools to become an elite NFL pass-rusher.

Anderson’s combination of speed, strength, and technical ability would make him an ideal partner for Hutchinson. The two players could form a lethal duo on the defensive line, with Hutchinson drawing attention on one side and Anderson using his explosiveness to create pressure on the other. Anderson’s high motor and relentless style of play would mesh well with Hutchinson’s leadership and tenacity, creating a dynamic pairing that could terrorize quarterbacks for years to come.

**2. Defensive Tackle: Jalen Carter (Georgia)**

Another name to watch is Jalen Carter, a defensive tackle from the University of Georgia. Carter is widely regarded as one of the best interior defensive linemen in the 2025 draft class, showcasing impressive pass-rushing skills from the inside while also being a stout run defender. At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, Carter is a physical presence who can collapse the pocket from the inside, forcing quarterbacks to step up into the waiting arms of edge rushers like Hutchinson.

Carter’s versatility would allow him to line up in multiple spots along the defensive line, giving the Lions’ defense added flexibility. Pairing him with Hutchinson would give the Lions a dangerous combination of inside-outside pressure. As teams struggle to block both Hutchinson on the edge and Carter on the inside, the Lions’ defense could create havoc and disrupt offensive schemes on a weekly basis.

**3. Edge Rusher: Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech)**

Tyree Wilson is another edge rusher who could be a solid pick for the Lions. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 275 pounds, Wilson has the size and strength to overwhelm offensive linemen. He combines his physicality with an impressive set of pass-rush moves that allow him to be effective against both the run and the pass.

Wilson’s ability to win at the point of attack and use his length to disengage from blockers would make him a fantastic complement to Hutchinson. Like Anderson, Wilson’s presence would force opposing offenses to account for both players, thus opening up opportunities for Hutchinson to get to the quarterback.

The Impact of a Strong Defensive Line

The selection of a “running mate” for Hutchinson would not only improve the Lions’ pass rush but would also help solidify their run defense. A strong defensive line is essential to stopping the run, especially in the NFC North, where teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers rely on a strong ground game. By adding another disruptive force to the line, the Lions can become more well-rounded and difficult to beat.

Furthermore, a strong defensive line helps the entire defense. A pass rush that consistently pressures the quarterback forces quarterbacks into mistakes, which benefits the secondary. The Lions’ young secondary, featuring players like Jeff Okudah and Kirby Joseph, would benefit from a stronger pass rush, as it would give them more time to cover receivers and create opportunities for turnovers.

Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for the Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions’ future is bright, and much of that is due to the presence of Aidan Hutchinson and the potential addition of a talented defensive player to complement him. The Lions are building a team that could soon become one of the most feared defenses in the NFL, and Kiper’s mock draft suggests they are on the right path.

Selecting a “running mate” for Hutchinson would be a key step in completing the Lions’ defensive rebuild. Whether it’s an edge rusher like Will Anderson or Tyree Wilson or an interior presence like Jalen Carter, the addition of a disruptive player alongside Hutchinson would elevate the defense and make the Lions a serious contender in the NFC North.

As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Lions’ front office and their decision to select a player who can help Hutchinson dominate and take the defense to new heights. The future of the Detroit Lions’ defense looks very promising, and the addition of Hutchinson’s “partner” could be the missing piece they need to become an elite unit.

The Detroit Lions Are Building for the Future

The selection of Aidan Hutchinson’s “running mate” in the 2025 NFL Draft could be the catalyst the Detroit Lions need to build a dominant defense. By pairing Hutchinson with another impactful player on the defensive line, the Lions will not only improve their pass rush but also create a more balanced defense capable of stopping both the run and the pass.

As the Lions continue to build around Hutchinson and focus on strengthening the defensive line, they are setting themselves up for success in the coming years. The choice in Kiper’s mock draft highlights the direction the team is headed—towards a future where they are once again a playoff contender and a team that can compete with the best in the NFL. With Hutchinson leading the charge, the Lions are well on their way to becoming one of the league’s top defensive teams.