Initial impressions: Converting tackles bolster interior OL draft class if Lions want to continue retooling
After debuting our pre-combine, film-focused introduction of the 2025 draft class with an evaluation of the top edge-rushing prospects, let’s turn our attention to the opposite trench, exploring the interior offensive linemen.
As a reminder, the names below reflect consensus top-100 players from several respected draft analysts. They’ll be sorted into three categories — top of the board, first-round talent and Day 2 options — and will be listed alphabetically within the tiers.
The top of the board suggests a player is currently projected to be selected in the top half of the first round. The Lions are scheduled to pick No. 28. The remaining first-round options aren’t necessarily expected to be available at that spot, but within a range where the Lions could reasonably trade up to snag a specific target.
Top of the board
Will Campbell, LSU
Listed height/weight: 6-foot-6, 324 pounds
Stats: Started 38 games at left tackle. First-team All-SEC (2023, 2024), Consensus All-American (2024).
Given how concentrated talent gets in the NFL, I wanted to see how Campbell handled some of the best edge defenders on last season's schedule, focusing my quick study on the lineman's performances against Texas A&M and South Carolina. The added value is A&M's Shemar Stewart and Nic Scourton stress blockers with power, while South Carolina's Kyle Kennard has an elite burst.
Campbell is a collegiate tackle who very well could stick at that spot, but many see a move to guard at the next level due to a lack of elite arm length. When it comes to top-10 talent making the shift, I always think back to Brandon Scherff, the Iowa product who was selected No. 5 in 2015 and has earned Pro Bowl recognition five times.
Campbell has a pro-ready, well-proportioned frame with a thick base. He showcases athletic movement skills, with good bend and a fluid kickslide with his pass sets, while showing the ability to efficiently pull tight to the formation, get up field and consistently mark a blocking assignment.
Campbell had some issues with power against Texas A&M, particularly when blocking Stewart. The offensive lineman was regularly driven deep into the pocket before he could re-anchor against the bull rush.
Against speed rushes, Campbell occasionally fires his hands low, opening them to be chopped and allowing the defender to bend the edge. Campbell can also get caught oversetting, with the rusher crossing his face and taking an inside path to the quarterback. What's encouraging is he never seems panicked or out of control, which likely keeps the penalties down.
As a run blocker, he generates excellent explosion through his base, regularly showing an ability to cave in his side of the line when working outside in. Campbell should be scheme versatile in the ground game, whether he plays tackle or guard at the next level.
First-round talent
Tyler Booker, Alabama
Listed height/weight: 6-foot-5, 325 pounds
2024 stats: Started 25 games the past two seasons, primarily at left guard. First-team All-SEC (2023, 2024), second-team All-American (2024).
A former five-star recruit, Booker looks the part with a wide frame and above-average length for an interior lineman. He consistently keeps the pad level low, almost always winning the leverage battle.