Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes may say he doesn’t draft for need, but in 2025, he may not have much of a choice. The 2025 NFL Draft class is filled with defensive end talent that drives deep into Day 2. And while Detroit could get by in 2025 without adding an immediate impact player at defensive end, the extreme long-term need there is hard to ignore.
Previous Lions draft previews:
- Quarterbacks
- Running backs
- Wide receivers
- Tight ends
- Offensive tackles
- Guards/centers
- Defensive tackle
2025 Detroit Lions draft preview: Defensive tackle
Under contract: Aidan Hutchinson (2025*), Marcus Davenport (2025), Josh Paschal (2025), Al-Quadin Muhammad (2025), Nate Lynn (2026), Mitchell Agude (2025), Isaac Ukwu (2025)
*Lions are expected to activate Hutchinsons’ fifth-year option, which would extend his contract through the 2026 season
Short-term need: 6/10
Long-term need: 9/10
For 2025, the Lions could theoretically roll with Hutchinson, Davenport, Paschal, Muhammad, and whoever else may win the training camp battle at edge defender and be in a decent spot.