The Detroit Lions are eyeing prospects to help push them deeper into the postseason.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Detroit Lions are eyeing prospects to help push them deeper into the postseason. With needs at cornerback, defensive line, and offensive depth, General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell will have tough choices to make. Here are five players the Lions may consider drafting on Thursday night:
1. Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
The Lions have improved their secondary but could still use a dynamic young corner. Terrion Arnold brings physicality, excellent instincts, and strong man-coverage skills. His ability to lock down receivers would be a huge boost for a Detroit defense that struggled against elite passing offenses. If Arnold is available when the Lions pick, he could be a no-brainer.
2. Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Detroit’s pass rush was effective in 2024, but adding another explosive edge rusher could take it to the next level. Jared Verse is a relentless, powerful defensive end who can disrupt quarterbacks and collapse pockets. Pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson would give the Lions a terrifying one-two punch on the edge, making life miserable for opposing offenses.
3. Jackson Powers-Johnson, C/G, Oregon
Even with a strong offensive line, the Lions must plan for the future. Jackson Powers-Johnson, a dominant interior lineman, can play center or guard, giving Detroit flexibility. His power in the run game fits perfectly with the Lions’ physical identity, and he could eventually take over if veterans like Frank Ragnow deal with injuries or aging.
4. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
Another Alabama corner, Kool-Aid McKinstry, has been on Detroit’s radar. While not as flashy as Arnold, McKinstry is technically sound and extremely reliable. He brings a calming presence to the back end of the defense and has faced top SEC competition. His football IQ and clean fundamentals would fit seamlessly into Aaron Glenn’s defensive system.
5. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
The Lions’ offense is one of the NFL’s best, but adding another big-play threat could make it unstoppable. Brian Thomas Jr. has elite size-speed combination and can stretch the field vertically. With Jameson Williams developing and Amon-Ra St. Brown dominating underneath, Thomas would complete a dangerous trio and
