An Underrated Detroit Lions Need for the 2025 NFL Draft
The Detroit Lions have steadily built a formidable roster under the leadership of general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell. With a strong core in place and back-to-back playoff appearances, the Lions are on the cusp of becoming legitimate Super Bowl contenders. However, as they look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, there are still key areas they need to address to maintain their upward trajectory.
While positions like cornerback, edge rusher, and offensive line depth often dominate draft discussions, one underrated need for the Lions heading into the 2025 NFL Draft is the tight end position. Despite having a serviceable group of players at the position, Detroit could benefit from adding a dynamic playmaker who can contribute as both a receiver and a blocker.
Why Tight End is an Underrated Need for the Lions
The Lions currently have Sam LaPorta, who emerged as a reliable target in his rookie year. However, beyond LaPorta, the depth at the position is questionable. Injuries, inconsistency, and the need for a versatile tight end who can complement their offensive scheme make it a position worth considering in the draft.
Detroit has thrived with a balanced offensive attack, and adding another talented tight end would give quarterback Jared Goff (or a future quarterback) another weapon while also helping in run-blocking situations. A true dual-threat tight end could elevate the Lions’ offense to another level, making them even harder to defend.
Current State of the Lions’ Tight End Room
- Sam LaPorta: The second-year standout has been a major success, but the Lions can’t afford to rely solely on him.
- Brock Wright: A solid blocker but limited as a receiver, making him more of a depth option than a featured playmaker.
- James Mitchell: Still developing but has yet to establish himself as a consistent contributor.
- Shane Zylstra: Injuries and inconsistencies have kept him from making a major impact.
While LaPorta has been a revelation, the Lions lack a high-upside second tight end who can take pressure off him. If LaPorta were to miss time, the team would have to rely on unproven or limited options.
How a Second Tight End Would Help the Lions’ Offense
1. Enhancing the Passing Game
Detroit’s offense has thrived with a strong running game and play-action passing attack. Adding a second tight end who can stretch the field and create mismatches would give offensive coordinator Ben Johnson more flexibility.
Having another tight end capable of making contested catches over the middle would give Jared Goff a security blanket, particularly in third-down and red-zone situations. With Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams on the outside, another tight end could help exploit the middle of the field.
2. Boosting the Running Game
The Lions have one of the most physical offensive lines in the NFL, and they pride themselves on winning in the trenches. While their offensive line has done an excellent job opening running lanes for Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, an additional strong blocking tight end could provide extra support.
A tight end who can effectively seal the edge and contribute in short-yardage situations would allow Detroit to impose its will even more effectively against top defensive fronts.
3. Reducing LaPorta’s Workload
Sam LaPorta played a significant number of snaps as a rookie, which is great for development but also raises concerns about potential injuries and long-term wear and tear. A complementary tight end would allow the Lions to give LaPorta breathers without sacrificing too much production.
Having two tight ends who can contribute as both blockers and receivers would also open up more creative formations and allow Detroit to keep defenses guessing.
Potential Tight End Prospects for the Lions in the 2025 NFL Draft
While the 2025 draft class is still taking shape, several tight end prospects could fit what the Lions need:
1. Brock Bowers, Georgia
Bowers is an elite-level talent who could go in the top 10, but if the Lions somehow had the chance to draft him, he would transform their offense immediately. He is an outstanding receiver, a tough blocker, and a true matchup nightmare for defenses.
2. Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas
A well-rounded tight end with strong receiving skills and the ability to block, Sanders would be an excellent fit in Detroit’s scheme. He has good size, athleticism, and hands, making him a natural complement to LaPorta.
3. Theo Johnson, Penn State
Johnson is a big-bodied tight end with excellent upside as a pass-catcher. He could be available in the middle rounds and would give Detroit a versatile weapon at the position.
4. Erick All, Iowa
Coming from a tight end factory like Iowa, All has the skill set to be a productive NFL player. He’s a strong blocker and has shown flashes as a receiver, making him a strong candidate to join the Lions’ offense.
Other Underrated Needs for the Lions in the 2025 NFL Draft
While tight end is a significant underrated need, there are a few other areas where Detroit could look to add depth:
1. Interior Defensive Line
The Lions have invested heavily in their defensive line, but adding more depth on the interior could help them maintain dominance up front. They need a true disruptor who can collapse the pocket and stop the run.
2. Cornerback Depth
Despite improvements in the secondary, adding another young, high-upside cornerback would be beneficial, especially in a pass-heavy league.
3. Backup Quarterback
With Jared Goff locked in as the starter, the Lions still need to consider the long-term future at quarterback. Drafting a developmental player in the mid-to-late rounds could be a smart move.
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