There’s been no shortage of talk about improving the Detroit Lions’ defensive line in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. And while Lions general manager Brad Holmes may have spoken this week about how they are not overly concerned with drafting for need, this year’s class of players offers several prospects who would meet Detroit’s qualifications of football character, high-tier talents, and, yes, filling a role that is needed.
Let’s start with the defensive tackles.
Previous Lions draft previews:
2025 Detroit Lions draft preview: Defensive tackle
Under contract: Alim McNeill (2028), Mekhi Wingo (2027), DJ Reader (2025), Levi Onwuzurike (2025), Roy Lopez (2025), Brodric Martin (2026), Pat O’Connor (2025), Chris Smith (2025)
Short-term need: 4/10
Long-term need: 7/10
Detroit has a lot of bodies at the defensive tackle position for 2025, and it could theoretically be ample enough for the entire season.