There’s nothing quite like the first day of Detroit Lions rookie minicamp. It’s the NFL’s version of the first day of school. New faces. Nerves on edge. Coaches barking out orders. Everyone’s watching, from die-hard fans to beat reporters with notepads itching for a headline.
But here’s the thing, beyond the headlines and highlight reels, the real story is what’s happening right now on ThatDetroitGrit.com. Our forum is buzzing, and we want you in the mix. Whether you’re a draft junkie, a hopeful optimist, or just here for the hot takes, now’s the time to jump in.
Let’s break down what you can expect on that all-important first day, and why your voice matters here more than ever.
The First Day: More Than Just Drills
Picture this: dozens of rookies in Lions blue, stretching out on Allen Park’s grass, trying not to trip over their own shoelaces. Some are first-round picks. Others are long shots with nothing to lose. They’re all trying to make that first impression stick.
That first day? It’s not about perfection. It’s about raw effort. Energy. A little chaos.
Here’s what usually goes down:
- Orientation: Rookies get the lay of the land — facilities, playbooks, expectations.
- Stretching and Warm-Ups: Can’t pull a hammy on Day 1.
- Position Drills: Coaches looking for who catches on quick, who hesitates.
- Team Walkthroughs: Learning the basics. No one’s running full speed yet.
- Media Scrums: Reporters circle like sharks, looking for the first great quote.
It’s a lot. And for these young guys? Every moment counts.
Meet the 2025 Detroit Lions Draft Picks
This year’s rookie group is stacked with potential. Some names you already know. Others might be brand new. Either way, these are the guys to watch as they step onto the field for the first time in Honolulu blue.
Here’s a rundown of the Detroit Lions’ 2025 NFL Draft picks, including names, positions, colleges, and a quick take on their football skills:
1. Tyleik Williams, Defensive Tackle, Ohio State Williams is a force in the middle. He plays with a ton of power, has quick hands, and knows how to collapse the pocket. At Ohio State, he was a problem for opposing offensive lines, racking up tackles for loss and showing real pass-rush upside from the interior. He fits the Lions’ style: tough, disruptive, and relentless (Pride of Detroit).
2. Tate Ratledge, Guard, Georgia Ratledge is known as a “Tier 1 Grit Index” player, which basically means he’s nasty in the trenches. Self-described as a “dirtbag” (in the best, Dan Campbell sense), he’s a people-mover with solid technique and the kind of attitude coaches love. He started multiple years in the SEC and should step in right away (Pride of Detroit).
3. Isaac TeSlaa, Wide Receiver, Arkansas TeSlaa is a big-bodied receiver with sure hands and a knack for winning contested catches. He’s not blazing fast, but he’s physical and knows how to use his frame to shield defenders. He put up solid production at Arkansas and should give the Lions another red-zone weapon (Detroit Lions).
4. Miles Frazier, Guard, LSU Frazier is a strong, athletic guard who plays with good balance and awareness. At LSU, he showed the ability to pull and get out in space, which fits Detroit’s run-heavy approach. He’s got starter upside with some polish (ESPN).
5. Ahmed Hassanein, Defensive End, Boise State University Hassanein is a high-motor edge rusher who tallied impressive sack numbers at Boise State. He’s a bit of a sleeper, but scouts love his hustle, bend, and ability to finish plays. His story and attitude have already made him a fan favorite (SI.com).
6. Dan Jackson, Safety, Georgia Jackson is a smart, rangy safety who always seems to be around the ball. He’s got good instincts in coverage and isn’t afraid to come downhill in run support. He was a team leader at Georgia and brings a steady presence to the secondary (SI.com).
7. Dominic Lovett, Wide Receiver, Georgia Lovett is a quick, shifty slot receiver who can turn short catches into big gains. He’s got great hands and vision after the catch. At Georgia, he was a reliable option in the passing game and should bring some juice to Detroit’s offense (SI.com).
These picks give Detroit a blend of power, grit, and skill. Exactly the kind of group you’d expect for a team that wants to dominate up front and play physical, smart football.
Don’t Forget the Undrafted Free Agents
Every year, there’s one or two guys who walk in with zero expectations and walk out with a roster spot. Think of them as the Cinderella stories of rookie camp.
This year’s invited undrafted free agents include:
- RB Anthony Tyus, RB, Ohio – Versatile, physical back; breaks tackles and excels in open field.
- Caden Prieskorn, TE, Ole Miss – Reliable target; strong hands, tough blocker, thrives in clutch moments.
- Jackson Meeks, WR, Syracuse – Physical receiver; excels in contested catches, dependable red zone option.
- Mason Miller, OL, North Dakota State – Tough, versatile lineman; anchors run game with strong, consistent blocking.
You ever root for the underdog? Now’s your chance. These guys are fighting for their football lives. One good day can change everything.
Why Your Voice Belongs Here
I still remember my first rookie camp of talking trash on the internet. Not as a player, but as a fan. (Yes, I am much older than the Internet). I was glued to the message boards, arguing about whether our second-round linebacker would turn into the next Chris Spielman. (Spoiler: he didn’t.) But the conversations made me smarter. More invested. The trash talk, the optimism, the frustration. It all made me feel like I was part of something bigger.
That’s what we’re building here at ThatDetroitGrit.com. A place where fans can share their takes, debate the roster, and maybe even catch a little early buzz about the next Lions breakout star.
But it only works if you jump in. Your comment, your question, your hot take. It could be the spark that gets the whole forum going.
What to Watch For And Discuss
Not sure what to say? Here’s what’s always worth talking about on Day 1:
- Who looks comfortable? Some guys settle in fast. Others look lost.
- Surprise standouts. There’s always one player who makes you sit up and notice.
- First impressions of the draft picks. Is Avery as fast as advertised? Does Fielding look like a shutdown corner?
- Underdog moments. Did a UDFA make a leaping catch or force a fumble?
- Body language. Who’s leading? Who’s hanging their head after a mistake?
Think about it like this: if you were standing on the sideline, what would you tell your friends about? That’s exactly the kind of insight we want on the forums.
How to Get Involved
Don’t just lurk. Even if you’re new, your opinion counts. Here’s how to dive in:
- Click over to the ThatDetroitGrit.com Forum and find the rookie minicamp thread.
- Drop a quick comment, even if it’s just who you’re excited to watch.
- Ask a question. Someone will always have an answer (or at least a strong opinion).
- Share a rumor or article you found. The more info, the better.
- Come back and check replies. The best debates happen when people stick around.
Remember: There’s no “wrong” take here. Just passionate fans, all pulling for the same team.
The Value of Community
Football’s supposed to be fun. Sure, we all want wins, but half the memories are made arguing about left tackles and remembering who flashed in minicamp. The best part? Those arguments and stories start right here, and with your voice.
So let’s make this rookie minicamp one to remember. Share your thoughts. Ask your questions. Tell us who you’re rooting for and why. Your insight could shape the next big discussion, or even change someone’s mind about that late-round pick.
Ready to Make Your Mark?
The Lions’ rookies have their shot. Now it’s your turn.
Jump into the forum. Leave a comment below. Start a thread.
Let’s show these rookies (and each other) what Detroit grit really means.
First day of rookie camp? It’s not just about the players. It’s about the fans, too. So what are you waiting for? Log in, sound off, and let’s get this conversation started.
What do you expect from the Lions’ rookies this year? Who’s your sleeper pick? Comment below or join the forum now. We’re saving you a seat.