Detroit Lions Big Board: Ranking the top 75 non-QB prospects and their fits ahead of the 2025 NFL draft
Allen Park — After months of preparation, speculation and anticipation, we’ve reached draft week. The NFL will hold the event across three days in Green Bay, starting with the opening round Thursday night.
The Detroit Lions have seven selections, including none in the fifth round and two in the seventh. The team also traded its original third-round choice to draft offensive tackle Giovanni Manu last year, but gained a compensatory pick in the round tied to former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn becoming the head coach of the New York Jets.
This offseason, I invested more time than in previous years getting to know the prospects through their film in an effort to understand their skill sets and how they might fit in Detroit.
That effort has led us to our inaugural Lions-centric draft board, ranking the top 75 non-QB prospects and exploring how they might fit on the roster.
1. Travis Hunter, CB, Colorado
An absurd talent who has a strong argument to be viewed as the best cornerback and wide receiver in this class. It’s unlikely any team gives Hunter the chance to play both full-time. Still, it’s realistic to see him locked into playing corner and being worked into 8-12 snaps per game on offense.
How he’d fit: In the imaginary world where the Lions had a shot, Hunter would eventually push the newly signed D.J. Reed to nickel. As noted, it would be a waste not to find a concentrated offensive role for Hunter, as well.
2. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
Shifting from playing off the ball to lining up on the edge this season, Carter quickly blossomed into the premier pass rusher in this draft, racking up 12.0 sacks, 24 tackles for a loss, and more than 60 pressures in 2024. His frame, athleticism, and lightning-quick first step compare favorably to Will Anderson Jr., the No. 3 pick in the 2023 draft.
How he’d fit: Plug-and-play opposite Aidan Hutchinson as a high-volume edge rusher.
3. Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
A prototypical 3-technique who checks almost every box, from technique to strength to athleticism to effort. If there’s one thing Graham lacks, it’s elite length. His well-rounded skill set, which includes being able to stop the run and affect the pocket, is reminiscent of Christian Wilkins and Detroit’s Alim McNeill.