10 Prospects Who Could Interest the Detroit Lions in the 2025 NFL Draft Day three.
As the Detroit Lions continue their rebuild and look to strengthen their roster in the 2025 NFL Draft, the team will likely focus on adding depth and finding value picks on Day 3. The first two days of the draft generally focus on high-impact, starting-caliber players, but Day 3 (Rounds 4-7) provides an opportunity to unearth future stars and solid contributors who could develop into key pieces of the Lions’ long-term puzzle. Below are 10 prospects who could pique the Lions’ interest on Day 3, focusing on both positional need and potential upside.
1. Chase Brown, RB (Illinois)
Projected Round: 4-5
The Lions have a solid backfield with David Montgomery and Jammer Gibbs, but adding a dynamic, balanced runner like Chase Brown could bring an extra layer of depth and competition. Brown possesses quick feet, good vision, and an ability to catch passes out of the backfield. His strong finish to the 2024 season at Illinois caught the attention of many scouts, and he could be a reliable change-of-pace back in the NFL. His speed and ability to create yards after contact would complement the Lions’ dynamic offense well.
2. Jordan Battle, S (Alabama)
Projected Round: 4
Safety is an area where the Lions may look for additional depth. While they have a talented secondary, adding a versatile player like Jordan Battle could be enticing. Battle was a leader on Alabama’s defense, showcasing impressive coverage skills, strong tackling, and an ability to read the quarterback. His high football IQ and leadership ability could be an asset to the Lions’ defense as they look to build a more consistent back end.
3. Zach Harrison, EDGE (Ohio State)
Projected Round: 4-5
The Lions have bolstered their defensive line, but they could always use more pass-rushing depth. Zach Harrison has excellent size (6’6″, 265 lbs) and athleticism. While he’s shown flashes of potential at Ohio State, his consistency has been a question mark. However, with some coaching refinement, Harrison could develop into a solid rotational edge rusher, providing much-needed pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His upside in this area is high, and the Lions have the coaching staff to help him reach his potential.
4. Marvin Mims, WR (Oklahoma)
Projected Round: 4-5
The Lions’ receiving corps is solid, but they could look for another receiver to add depth behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. Marvin Mims, with his speed, separation ability, and ball skills, would be a perfect fit. He’s an explosive downfield threat who can stretch defenses vertically. Adding Mims could give the Lions another weapon in the passing game and a player who can contribute immediately as a deep threat or on special teams.
5. Nick Herbig, OLB (Wisconsin)
Projected Round: 5-6
The Lions are deep at linebacker, but they are still looking for a versatile, high-energy player who can contribute in different roles. Nick Herbig, a pass-rushing outside linebacker from Wisconsin, could provide that. Herbig’s ability to disrupt the backfield and chase down quarterbacks would help Detroit increase their pressure, especially in sub-packages. He might need time to adjust to the NFL, but his high motor and strong work ethic make him a Day 3 prospect worth taking a chance on.
6. John Michael Schmitz, C (Minnesota)
Projected Round: 5-6
While the Lions’ offensive line is already one of the best in the league, they could still benefit from additional depth, especially at the center position. John Michael Schmitz is a highly regarded center who has been a dominant force for Minnesota. His excellent technique, ability to anchor against powerful defensive tackles, and leadership qualities make him a strong Day 3 option. Schmitz could provide immediate depth or be groomed as the long-term center if needed.
7. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB (TCU)
Projected Round: 6-7
Cornerback is another position the Lions may look to add depth to, especially considering the physicality required in their division. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, a smaller but incredibly scrappy corner from TCU, possesses elite ball skills, fluid hips, and solid instincts. While he may be undersized for some teams’ needs, his ability to read the quarterback and disrupt passing lanes fits the Lions’ defensive philosophy. He could be a strong candidate for the nickel role or provide solid depth behind the starters.
8. Jalen Redmond, DT (Oklahoma)
Projected Round: 5-6
Jalen Redmond has been a disruptor on Oklahoma’s defensive line and could be a good fit for the Lions’ front seven. He’s quick off the ball and has the ability to collapse the pocket from the interior, which is crucial in a defense that seeks to stifle the running game and apply pressure to the quarterback. While he may need time to adjust to the NFL, Redmond’s upside as a rotational defensive tackle could provide value on Day 3.
9. Jadyn Lamar, LB (Louisiana Tech)
Projected Round: 6-7
Jadyn Lamar is a versatile linebacker who thrives as both a tackler and in coverage. His instincts are solid, and he has the versatility to cover tight ends or run backs in the passing game. Lamar would be a great addition for the Lions’ linebacker corps, especially if they are looking for someone to contribute immediately on special teams while also offering potential as a starter in the future. His consistency, leadership, and intelligence on the field make him a reliable Day 3 selection.
10. Kayshon Boutte, WR (LSU)
Projected Round: 7
Although Kayshon Boutte’s stock has fluctuated, he still offers significant upside as a receiver. His natural talent, speed, and big-play ability are undeniable. While he has faced some inconsistency at LSU, the Lions have a strong coaching staff and a culture that could help him thrive. Taking a chance on Boutte late in the draft could give the Lions a potential steal—a receiver with the talent to develop into a valuable contributor.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions’ Day 3 draft strategy will likely center around finding depth and players who can contribute on special teams while also having the potential to develop into long-term starters. These 10 prospects represent players who offer a blend of talent, upside, and need that could make them ideal fits for Detroit as they continue to build a competitive roster for the future.
