That early playoff exit really left a sour taste in most Lions’ fans mouths, but the sweet smell of success still lingers in Detroit. Following a franchise-record 15-win season and their first division title in three decades, the Lions find themselves in unfamiliar territory: picking late in the first round with relatively few glaring needs. But as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, General Manager Brad Holmes faces a delicate balancing act between maintaining the team’s newfound excellence and addressing subtle weaknesses that could derail their Super Bowl aspirations.
The Lions’ transformation from perennial underdog to legitimate contender has been nothing short of remarkable. Their 15-2 regular season record in 2024, including a perfect 8-0 road record, set new franchise benchmarks. Yet their postseason exit in the divisional round served as a sobering reminder that even the most complete teams have room for improvement.
With approximately $42.36 million in cap space (third-most in the NFL) and seven draft picks, including the 28th overall selection, Detroit has the resources to fortify an already formidable roster. The question isn’t whether they can add talent – it’s where they should focus their attention.
Edge rusher emerges as perhaps the most pressing need, despite the position group’s solid performance in 2024. While Aidan Hutchinson has developed into a cornerstone piece, the Lions need another dynamic presence opposite him to maintain consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The 2025 draft class is particularly deep in edge talent, making the late first round an ideal opportunity to address this need.
The secondary, while improved from previous seasons, could use additional depth and talent. The Lions’ pass defense showed vulnerability in crucial moments during the 2024 campaign, particularly in their playoff loss. A versatile defensive back who can play both corner and safety would provide valuable insurance against injuries while potentially developing into a future starter.
Offensive line depth presents another area of consideration. Though Detroit’s starting unit ranks among the league’s best, the NFL’s war of attrition demands quality backup options. The Lions learned this lesson the hard way during several key stretches of the 2024 season when injuries tested their depth. A mid-round selection could provide valuable insurance while developing behind the current starters.
The wide receiver room, despite its productivity, might benefit from an injection of youth. While Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to perform at an elite level, adding a complementary piece with deep-threat capabilities could take Detroit’s passing attack to another level. The challenge here lies in finding value later in the draft, as more pressing needs will likely command attention in the early rounds.
Defensive tackle depth remains an underrated concern. While the Lions’ run defense has improved significantly, their interior rotation could use reinforcement, particularly with several key contributors approaching free agency in 2026. Finding a disruptive force who can penetrate the backfield while holding firm against the run would add another dimension to their defensive front.
The linebacker corps, while solid, could benefit from additional speed and coverage ability. Modern NFL offenses increasingly target linebackers in pass coverage, and having athletic players who can stay with tight ends and running backs has become essential. A day-two selection could provide immediate special teams value while developing into a future starter.
Special teams, often overlooked but crucial in close games, merits attention in the later rounds. The Lions’ coverage units showed occasional lapses in 2024, and finding athletic defenders who excel in this phase could provide immediate impact while developing into larger roles.
Brad Holmes has earned the benefit of the doubt with his recent draft success, consistently finding value throughout all seven rounds. His ability to identify talent that fits both scheme and culture has played a crucial role in Detroit’s resurgence. The 2025 draft presents an opportunity to add the final pieces to a potential Super Bowl roster.
The stakes have never been higher in Detroit. After decades of mediocrity, the Lions have built something special – a team that combines talent with toughness, skill with swagger. The 2025 draft isn’t about rebuilding or even reloading; it’s about refining a formula that’s already working. With thoughtful selections and continued player development, the Lions could find themselves not just in the playoff hunt, but hosting games deep into January.
As the draft approaches, one thing becomes clear: these aren’t your father’s Lions. The days of desperate reaches and position-of-need selections are over. Detroit can afford to be patient, strategic, and selective. In the end, that might be the surest sign of just how far this franchise has come.