2025 NFL Draft Preview: 5 Running Backs That Could Interest the Detroit Lions
Introduction
As the Detroit Lions continue to build toward sustained success in the NFC, the 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a key component in shaping their roster for the future. One position that may still require bolstering is running back. With the Lions’ offensive scheme under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson continuing to evolve, a dynamic, versatile running back could take their offense to new heights.
This preview will break down five running backs from the 2025 draft class who could potentially capture the Lions’ interest. These players offer unique skill sets, whether as ball carriers, blockers, or pass catchers, and all could complement Detroit’s offense depending on the Lions’ draft strategy.
Let’s dive into the five running backs that could be on the Lions’ radar in the 2025 NFL Draft.
1. Brock Palmer (University of Georgia)
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 215 lbs
2024 Stats: 1,540 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns, 220 receiving yards, 4 receiving touchdowns
Draft Projection: First Round
Overview:
Brock Palmer is one of the most complete running backs in college football heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. A highly explosive and powerful runner, Palmer has all the tools to thrive in the NFL. His blend of speed, vision, and power makes him a threat in both the run and passing game. The Lions have shown interest in running backs with versatility, and Palmer fits this mold perfectly.
Strengths:
- Power and Speed: Palmer boasts a rare combination of breakaway speed and power, allowing him to break tackles in the open field or stiff-arm defenders to gain extra yards.
- Vision: His field awareness allows him to see running lanes develop and make quick, decisive cuts.
- Pass Catching: Not only does Palmer shine as a traditional ball carrier, but he is also an exceptional pass catcher out of the backfield.
- Pass Protection: Palmer is a willing blocker, and he excels in picking up blitzes, making him an all-around back that could help protect Jared Goff or any future quarterback.
Fit with the Lions:
The Lions have had a need for a more complete running back to complement their backfield, which features a mix of players with varying skill sets. Palmer’s ability to contribute as a dual-threat out of the backfield would make him a perfect fit for Ben Johnson’s creative offense. His physicality would complement Detroit’s tough, grind-it-out style, while his pass-catching skills would open up additional passing options.
2. Caden Mitchell (University of Alabama)
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 210 lbs
2024 Stats: 1,350 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns, 200 receiving yards, 3 receiving touchdowns
Draft Projection: Second Round
Overview:
Caden Mitchell is a well-rounded running back who has proven to be one of the most efficient ball carriers in the SEC. Mitchell combines vision, burst, and power, and he has excellent hands as a receiver. His well-rounded game has drawn comparisons to some of the most productive backs in the NFL, and he would bring a versatile skill set to the Lions’ offense.
Strengths:
- Speed and Burst: Mitchell has the breakaway speed to get outside and turn short runs into long gains.
- Balance and Vision: He’s excellent at reading defenses, with an ability to sidestep tacklers and weave through gaps.
- Hands as a Receiver: One of Mitchell’s standout qualities is his ability to contribute as a receiving threat. His route-running is sharp, and he has the speed to stretch the field.
- Durability: Mitchell has been a workhorse for Alabama and has shown the ability to handle a heavy workload without a significant drop-off in performance.
Fit with the Lions:
While Mitchell might not have the raw athleticism of some other backs, his all-around game is perfect for a team like the Lions that values balance. With David Montgomery leading the charge as a power back, Mitchell would add the speed and pass-catching dimension to the backfield. Additionally, Mitchell’s durability would make him an appealing option for the Lions, who need a back they can rely on for extended stretches.
3. Tyson Clark (University of Michigan)
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 230 lbs
2024 Stats: 1,200 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns, 150 receiving yards, 2 receiving touchdowns
Draft Projection: Third Round
Overview:
Tyson Clark is one of the most physically imposing running backs in college football. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 230 pounds, Clark brings a physical edge to the running back position. He is a punishing downhill runner with the size and strength to break tackles and wear down defenses. However, it’s his ability to make plays in tight spaces and grind out tough yards that makes him intriguing for teams looking for a no-nonsense back.
Strengths:
- Power and Physicality: Clark is built like a bruiser, with the ability to churn out yards between the tackles. He has elite vision when running through contact and is tough to bring down.
- Workhorse Mentality: Clark excels in short-yardage situations and is built to carry the ball 20+ times a game.
- Pass Protection: Clark is a solid blocker in pass protection, something that will appeal to the Lions’ coaching staff.
Fit with the Lions:
The Lions have a strong offensive line, and a power back like Clark could help them control the clock and wear down opponents. His style would complement David Montgomery’s hard-nosed approach, and Clark could serve as a battering ram to finish games in the second half. Adding Clark to the Lions’ backfield would provide the team with a bruising complement to the more elusive speedsters.
4. Jaden Brooks (University of Ohio State)
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 210 lbs
2024 Stats: 1,250 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, 300 receiving yards, 4 receiving touchdowns
Draft Projection: Third Round
Overview:
Jaden Brooks is one of the most dynamic running backs in the 2025 draft class. With a solid combination of speed, quickness, and field vision, Brooks excels at running both inside and outside the tackles. He also has strong hands as a receiver, making him a true dual-threat option. His ability to make defenders miss in space is among the best in college football.
Strengths:
- Elusiveness and Agility: Brooks is extremely difficult to tackle in open space and has the quickness to make defenders miss.
- Speed: With his 4.4 speed, Brooks is a home run threat anytime he touches the ball.
- Receiving Threat: His ability to run routes out of the backfield gives him the potential to thrive as a third-down back, offering Goff a reliable target for checkdowns.
- Versatility: Brooks excels as both a runner and receiver, which would fit well in a Lions offense that is growing more dynamic each season.
Fit with the Lions:
Brooks’ versatility would be a valuable asset to the Lions’ offense. His receiving skills would allow him to be used in creative ways, contributing in the passing game while also providing a solid running presence. Brooks could pair well with David Montgomery, offering a nice change-of-pace back who can stretch the field and offer explosive plays in space.
5. Avery Thompson (University of Oklahoma)
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 205 lbs
2024 Stats: 1,450 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns, 250 receiving yards, 2 receiving touchdowns
Draft Projection: Fourth Round
Overview:
Avery Thompson is one of the more underrated running backs in the 2025 draft, but he’s a strong candidate for teams looking for a reliable, multi-dimensional back. Thompson has been incredibly productive for Oklahoma, combining excellent ball-carrier vision with impressive acceleration and balance. He’s a little under the radar but has all the tools to develop into a productive NFL player.
Strengths:
- Quickness and Acceleration: Thompson has burst that allows him to accelerate through holes and into the second level of the defense.
- Patient Vision: Thompson waits for his blocks to develop and has great field awareness when choosing running lanes.
- Pass-catching Ability: Thompson is capable of being a factor in the passing game, particularly on screens and checkdowns.
- Football IQ: Thompson is a student of the game and understands the nuances of running back play, making him a solid candidate to thrive in an NFL system.
Fit with the Lions:
Thompson could be a great value pick for the Lions in the fourth round, offering a player who can contribute immediately while developing behind David Montgomery and a more experienced back. He fits the mold of the versatile, low-maintenance running back that the Lions could develop into a larger role over time.
The Detroit Lions are on the rise, and the 2025 NFL Draft offers them an opportunity to add another piece to their already promising roster. Whether it’s a powerhouse like Brock Palmer or a versatile threat like Jaden Brooks, these five running backs bring different qualities to the table that could help elevate the Lions’ offense.
As the team continues to push for NFC contention, adding one of these dynamic playmakers could provide the spark they need to improve their rushing attack and continue evolving into a more complete football team. Time will tell which back, if any, will find a home in Detroit, but one thing is certain: the Lions’ backfield could look much different come 2025.
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