Detroit Lions’ Position-Specific Needs at the 2025 NFL Combine

The Detroit Lions’ success in recent years has largely been attributed to a revamped roster and an aggressive rebuild under General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell. While they showed significant growth in 2024, there are still several areas of concern that need to be addressed for them to be true playoff contenders. Here are some of the critical positions the Lions will be closely monitoring during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine:

1. Defensive Line (Pass Rushers)

One of the most significant needs for the Lions heading into the 2025 offseason is strengthening their pass rush. While Aidan Hutchinson, the 2022 second overall pick, has shown promise and grown into a defensive cornerstone, the Lions still lack a consistent second rusher. Hutchinson has faced double-teams throughout the 2024 season, and Detroit’s defensive line hasn’t been able to consistently disrupt the quarterback.

At the 2025 Combine, the Lions will be on the lookout for top-tier edge rushers who can complement Hutchinson’s ability and provide the defense with more pressure. Some names to keep an eye on during the Combine include:

• Myles Murphy (Clemson): A raw, explosive athlete with the ability to bend around the edge and create havoc in the backfield. Murphy could be a perfect fit for the Lions’ defensive front.
• Will McDonald IV (Iowa State): Known for his burst and quickness, McDonald could add an explosive edge to the Lions’ defense. He’s expected to run a fast 40-yard dash at the Combine, which will be crucial in showing how quickly he can get to the quarterback.
• Jared Verse (Florida State): A dynamic pass rusher with excellent agility and flexibility. Verse is likely to shine in the Combine drills and could be an ideal fit for a defense looking to increase pressure.

With a strong class of edge rushers expected to be available, the Combine will help the Lions identify who fits their defensive schemes and physicality. A strong showing could give Detroit the edge they need in the draft to target an impactful pass rusher early.

2. Linebacker

Another glaring need for the Lions is improving their linebacker corps. While the team has some talented players, injuries have affected their depth, and they need an athletic, versatile linebacker who can play in coverage and contribute to run defense. The Lions have struggled in the middle of the field, and this has been a weakness in key moments during games.

At the Combine, the Lions will likely look for linebackers who excel in coverage but also possess the physicality to contribute in run support. The following linebackers could be among those the Lions focus on:

• Jalon Walker (Georgia): Walker is an incredibly athletic linebacker who is capable of covering ground in both pass coverage and in run defense. His ability to move sideline to sideline is exactly what the Lions need to defend against both the run and pass. His performance at the Combine will be crucial in determining how well he can transition to the NFL.
• Jihaad Campbell (Alabama): A rising prospect who has drawn attention for his playmaking ability. His Combine performance could help solidify him as one of the top linebacker prospects, especially if he demonstrates quickness and agility in the drills.
• Henry To’oTo’o (Alabama): To’oTo’o is known for his intelligence and leadership on the field. If he tests well at the Combine, it could push him up the Lions’ draft board as a potential early-round selection.

The Combine’s agility drills and overall athletic testing will be critical for linebackers, as the Lions need players who are both fast and instinctive. Detroit’s coaching staff will be watching how these players perform in coverage, speed, and change-of-direction drills.

3. Offensive Line (Interior Help)

The Detroit Lions’ offensive line has been one of the stronger units in the league, but there is still room for improvement, particularly in the interior. With the goal of protecting quarterback Jared Goff and creating more lanes for running back Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions could use another strong guard or center to solidify the middle of their line.

Some interior offensive linemen who could catch the Lions’ eye during the Combine include:

• Donovan Jackson (Ohio State): Jackson is a physical, powerful offensive lineman who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His size and ability to control the line of scrimmage make him an intriguing prospect for the Lions.
• Andrew Raym (Oklahoma): Raym brings versatility to the table and is capable of playing both guard and center. His ability to dominate in the trenches, combined with his athleticism, could be exactly what the Lions need to bolster their line.
• Steve Avila (TCU): Avila has shown exceptional technique and footwork, which makes him a standout in the Combine drills. He could immediately contribute to Detroit’s offensive line and help solidify their blocking unit.

The Combine will be vital in determining whether any of these players are quick enough, strong enough, and have the right mentality to contribute at a high level in the NFL. A strong performance could allow Detroit to secure an instant starter.

4. Secondary (Cornerbacks)

While the Lions’ defense has improved, one of their most pressing needs remains in the secondary. Specifically, the cornerback position has been a weak link, and while players like Jerry Jacobs have shown potential, the Lions still lack a true number one cornerback.

The Combine will feature a talented group of cornerbacks, many of whom could rise to the top of the Lions’ draft board:

• Kelee Ringo (Georgia): Ringo is an elite cornerback with speed and size, standing at 6’2” and boasting great ball skills. If he performs well at the Combine, his ability to lock down wide receivers on the outside would be a huge asset to the Lions’ secondary.
• Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State): Porter has the ideal build for an NFL cornerback and a strong pedigree, as his father was a former NFL linebacker. His physicality and coverage skills will be on full display during the Combine, and his performance could solidify him as a top cornerback prospect.
• Devon Witherspoon (Illinois): A fiery competitor, Witherspoon is known for his ball-hawking ability. His speed and instincts will be tested at the Combine, and if he shines in drills, he could be a strong option for Detroit.

The Combine Schedule and Key Dates

To understand the full picture of how the Lions will evaluate players, it’s important to break down the Combine schedule, as the event is structured across several days:

• February 27-28, 2025: Defensive line, linebackers, and special teams will begin drills on the first day, while the second day will feature tight ends and defensive backs.
• March 1-2, 2025: Quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs will showcase their skills, followed by the offensive line prospects closing out the Combine drills.

Final Thoughts on the 2025 NFL Combine for the Lions

The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine is a key opportunity for the Detroit Lions to assess and evaluate top prospects who could address the team’s most significant needs. With an eye on both immediate and long-term roster construction, the Lions will be prioritizing athleticism, technique, and versatility in every position group.

By targeting specific positions, such as defensive line, linebacker, offensive line, and secondary, the Lions will look to further build a team that can contend in the NFC North and beyond. With Brad Holmes’ keen eye for talent and Dan Campbell’s leadership, the Lions are well-positioned to make the most out of their draft selections, and the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine will be a crucial component in that process.

By carefully evaluating prospects through drills, interviews, and medical assessments, the Lions are aiming to take the next step toward becoming a playoff contender for the future.