Alright, Lions fans. Let's talk about the future. After that wild 2023 season and the expectations soaring for 2024, it's never too early to peek ahead. What does the 2025 NFL Draft hold for our Detroit Lions? That's the million-dollar question buzzing through Ford Field and every bar in Michigan. Forget generic mock drafts spit out by algorithms. We're diving deep, right now, into everything you actually need to know about the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025**. What picks do they actually have? Where are the glaring holes? Who might Brad Holmes target? This is your one-stop shop, written by someone who bleeds Honolulu Blue and obsesses over scouting reports way too much.

Where Things Stand: The Lions' 2025 Draft Capital (So Far)

Predicting the exact order of the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** is like trying to guess Michigan weather in April – things change fast. A lot rides on how the 2024 season plays out. Playoff run? Yeah, that pushes those picks later. But based on the standard formula and known trades *as of right now*, here's the expected haul:

*Note: Projected pick numbers are EXTREMELY fluid and heavily dependent on the Lions' 2024 win-loss record and playoff performance. Compensatory picks are projections based on expected 2024 free agency losses.*

Seeing that table, the first thing that hits you? No extra first-rounders like the Goff trade bonanza. Holmes is working with what feels like a more "normal" draft slate... for now. But don't fall asleep. This guy loves to wheel and deal. That late first-round spot? Prime trade-back territory if the right guy isn't glaring at him. Remember the Jameson Williams move? Yeah, that aggressive streak doesn't just vanish. Those **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** could look very different by draft night.

The Compensatory Pick Wild Card

Okay, let's get nerdy for a minute because this matters. The NFL hands out extra draft picks (compensatory picks) to teams that lose more or "better" free agents than they sign. The Lions saw some key guys walk in 2024 free agency:

• Jonah Jackson (G): Signed a BIG deal with the Rams. Major loss.
• Josh Reynolds (WR): Solid contributor who got paid by the Broncos.
• C.J. Gardner-Johnson (DB): Shorter deal with Eagles, but impactful player.

Meanwhile, the Lions' big signings were Kevin Zeitler (G) and DJ Reader (DT). Reader's deal was hefty, but Zeitler's was more modest. The net loss, especially with Jackson's contract value, points strongly towards the Lions getting at least one, possibly two, compensatory picks in the 2025 draft.

Most projections I've seen from folks who track this stuff religiously peg the Lions for a compensatory pick in either Round 3 or Round 4, and very likely another in Round 6 or 7. This is HUGE. An extra Day 2 pick? That's Brad Holmes gold right there. It essentially replaces the pick lost in the DPJ trade and adds real ammunition. Keep an eye on the official NFL announcement next spring – it directly impacts the total number of **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** we're talking about.

Man, losing Jonah still stings a bit. He was a homegrown guy. But Zeitler's a pro, and that potential comp pick? That softens the blow for building the future.

What Positions Are Screaming for Help? Lions' 2025 Draft Needs

Predicting needs a year out is tricky. Injuries happen. Breakout seasons happen. Some guys just don't pan out. But looking at the roster construction, contracts due to expire after the 2024 season, and potential long-term gaps, some clear priorities emerge for those **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025**.

Glaring Holes (High Priority Needs)

• Edge Rusher: This feels like the elephant in the room, doesn't it? Hutch is a superstar. But who's the consistent threat opposite him? Houston shows flashes but is primarily a sub-package pass rusher right now. Okwara is coming off injury. Paschal? Still needs to prove he can be *that* guy every down. If a dominant edge rusher is sitting there when the Lions pick in round one, it's incredibly hard to imagine Brad Holmes passing that up. They need someone who scares opposing QBs immediately. This isn't just a want; it feels like a *need*.
• Cornerback: Okay, the Lions invested heavily here in 2024 with Carlton Davis, Amik Robertson, and Terrion Arnold. Huge steps. BUT... Davis is on a short-term deal. Sutton is gone. Branch is a star in the slot/hybrid role, but the outside CB spot opposite Arnold long-term is absolutely a question mark. Is Emmanuel Moseley the answer post-ACL? Can someone else step up? Likely not addressed super early unless a stud falls, but Day 2 or early Day 3? Absolutely in play. Depth is always needed here too.

Important Needs (Potential Day 2/Day 3 Focus)

• Offensive Tackle: Wait, what? After Penei Sewell? Hear me out. Taylor Decker turns 31 during the 2024 season and is entering the final year of his contract in 2025. He's still very good, but you don't wait until the starter falls off a cliff to find his replacement, especially at such a premium position. Finding a developmental tackle prospect in the mid-rounds of the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** haul makes a ton of sense. Let them learn behind Decker for a year. Think Sewell learning behind Vaitai, but ideally hitting on the pick again!
• Wide Receiver: St. Brown is locked up long-term. Jameson Williams *has* to take that leap this year. But behind them? Antoine Green? Donovan Peoples-Jones is on a one-year deal. Kalif Raymond is more of a specialist. They need another reliable, physical target, especially if DPJ walks. This feels like a classic Brad Holmes Day 2 specialty position – finding that tough, YAC monster who fits the culture. Not necessarily a first-round burner unless Jamo completely flops (which I don't expect).
• Interior Defensive Line: Alim McNeill emerged as a force. DJ Reader is a monster... but he's 30 and on a short deal. Levi Onwuzurike and Brodric Martin are still question marks. They need rotational depth with upside and potentially a long-term partner for McNeill. This screams mid-round pick territory.
• Linebacker Depth: Anzalone is the leader. Jack Campbell showed promise. Derrick Barnes took a step. But beyond that? Depth is thin. Finding a speedy, coverage-focused LB on Day 3 adds competition and special teams value immediately. Holmes loves these kinds of value picks.

Wild Cards / Luxury Picks

• Quarterback: Goff is playing at a Pro Bowl level and just got PAID. He's the guy through at least 2026/2027. BUT... smart teams are always looking at QB development, especially late in the draft. Hendon Hooker is the current project. If a high-upside guy falls to Day 3 in the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** pool, I wouldn't be *shocked* if Holmes takes a flier. Not a priority, but a possibility.
• Tight End: Sam LaPorta is elite. Brock Wright is a solid blocker. Do they need a third? Maybe for depth, but unlikely to be a high pick unless someone falls dramatically or injury strikes.
• Guard: Zeitler is a short-term fix. Glasgow is solid but aging. Finding a future starter alongside Jackson (assuming he develops) could be a Day 2 or 3 target in 2025 if the value is right.

See the pattern? Brad Holmes prioritizes the trenches (both sides) and premium positions. Edge and OT scream premium. Corner does too. That's where the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025**, especially the early ones, are likely to be aimed. Don't expect a flashy RB or luxury pick early.

Potential Targets: Who Might Fit the Lions Mold in 2025?

Crystal ball time? Not exactly. Identifying specific players a year out is guesswork. Rosters change, college players have breakout or down years, injuries happen. But we *can* look at the type of player Brad Holmes has consistently targeted with the **Detroit Lions draft picks**, identify top prospects for 2025, and see whose profile fits Detroit's DNA.

What does Brad Holmes love?

• Production: Show me the tape where you dominated consistently.
• Toughness/Grit: Dan Campbell's "biting kneecaps" isn't just a slogan; it's a requirement. Does the player bring physicality?
• High Football IQ/Leadership: Think Sewell, LaPorta, Branch. Smart players who understand the game.
• Athletic Upside: Especially at premium positions. They want athletes they can develop.
• Culture Fit: Non-negotiable. High character, team-first mentality.

So, looking WAY early at potential 2025 prospects who *might* fit the bill based on early buzz:

Potential Round 1 Targets (Assuming Late Pick)

• Edge Rusher (Top Priority Fit): Keep an eye on guys like Nic Scourton (Texas A&M) – super athletic, relentless motor. JT Tuimoloau (Ohio State) – if he puts it all together, he could be special. Danny Stutsman (Oklahoma) – EDGE/LB hybrid? Brings that Anzalone physicality but more pass rush juice. A pure speed rusher opposite Hutch could be transformational. Holmes won't force it, but if the value and fit align? It's a no-brainer.
• Offensive Tackle (Future Decker Replacement): Will Campbell (LSU) – Massive, experienced, high pedigree. Joshua Gray (Oregon State) – Athletic with a mean streak. Kelvin Banks Jr. (Texas) – Could be top 10, but unlikely to fall to Lions. If Campbell/Gray are there late 1st, it would be tempting. Holmes values OT highly.
• Cornerback (If Davis Departs/Talent Too Good): Will Johnson (Michigan) – Elite talent, local-ish. Probably gone top 10. Travis Hunter (Colorado) – Unicorn athlete (WR/CB), but questions about focus/position. Benjamin Morrison (Notre Dame) – Smooth cover corner. If they aren't sold on their 2024 CB group long-term and a stud falls? Possible, but Edge/OT feel more urgent premium positions.

Honestly, that EDGE need just feels so obvious staring at the roster. Unless Paschal has a 12-sack year or something crazy, it's gotta be a top focus.

Potential Day 2 (Rounds 2 & 3) Targets

• WR (Physical Possession/YAC Threat): Look for guys built like Amon-Ra but maybe a tad bigger/faster. Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona) – Huge target, great hands. Evan Stewart (Oregon) – Explosive playmaker. Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State) – Polished route runner, reliable. This is Holmes' sweet spot for WR.
• IDL (Run Stopper/Pass Rush Upside): Kenneth Grant (Michigan) – Massive human, disruptor. Mason Graham (Michigan) – Technician next to Grant. Deone Walker (Kentucky) – Freakish size/athleticism combo. Finding someone to eventually pair with or rotate with McNeill is key.
• CB/S Hybrid or Developmental Outside CB: This feels like a "best player available" zone that often aligns with need. Look for versatile DBs with size/physicality. Malaki Starks (Georgia) – Safety with corner skills? Denzel Burke (Ohio State) – Experienced, tough outside corner if he falls.
• Offensive Guard (Future Starter): Glasgow won't last forever. Tyler Booker (Alabama) – Mauler in the run game. Donovan Jackson (Ohio State) – Athletic with high upside.

Potential Day 3 (Rounds 4-7) & Comp Pick Gems

This is where Brad Holmes and his scouts earn their money. Finding contributors and potential future starters late. Think Kerby Joseph, Malcolm Rodriguez, Amon-Ra St. Brown (technically early 4th). Targets for the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** later rounds often exhibit:

• Elite production at a lower level (FCS, G5)
• Outstanding athletic traits needing polish
• High football IQ/Leadership
• Versatility (e.g., LB/Safety hybrids, OL who can play multiple spots)
• Special Teams demon potential

Potential Profile Fits:

• LB Depth/Special Teamer: Look for tackling machines from tough conferences. Speed is a plus.
• RB3: Gibbs and Montgomery are the 1-2 punch. A late-round power back or receiving specialist for depth? Maybe.
• Developmental QB: If Hooker doesn't show enough progress, a late-round flier on an athletic project with a big arm could happen.
• Depth at Any Position: Always need competition and special teams bodies. Holmes finds guys here.

Brad Holmes' Draft Tendencies & What It Means for 2025

You gotta understand the GM to predict the picks, right? Brad Holmes isn't some robot running a consensus board. He has clear patterns with those **Detroit Lions draft picks**:

• Aggressive for "His Guys": Jameson Williams trade-up. Trading up for Brodric Martin. If Holmes identifies a player he thinks is a culture fit and potential star at a position of need, he *will* move up. Don't assume all the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** will be used where they currently sit. That late first? Could easily become an early second and an extra third if he targets a specific guy.
• Value the Trenches Early: Sewell (1st), Levi O (2nd), Paschal (2nd), McNeill (3rd), Martin (3rd). He invests premium capital in the lines. Expect that to continue, especially with Edge being such a glaring need.
• High-Character, High-Football-IQ Players: This is non-negotiable. The locker room culture is paramount. They do extensive homework on personality and work ethic. If there are character red flags, they get crossed off, no matter the talent.
• Athleticism Matters (Especially Later): While production is king, they also target athletic upside, particularly in the mid-to-late rounds (see James Houston).
• Fills Needs, But Sticks to Board: Holmes doesn't reach *drastically* for need. If a player high on their board at a less critical position is sitting there versus a lower-graded guy at a bigger need, he often takes the higher-graded player. But need clearly influences the board construction.

So, putting it together for **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025**?

Edge Rusher in Round 1 feels like destiny, *unless* someone falls who is just too good to pass up (like a top OT sliding). Day 2 is prime for WR, CB, or IDL, depending on how the board crumbles and how the 2024 season plays out at those spots. Expect at least one trade – likely moving back from that late first-round slot to accumulate more picks, or moving up in Rounds 2-4 if a targeted player slips. Those compensatory picks? They'll be used as ammunition to move around or grab an extra developmental player Holmes covets.

Your Burning Questions Answered: Detroit Lions 2025 Draft Picks FAQ

How many picks do the Lions have in the 2025 draft?

As of right now, the Lions are projected to have their standard 7 picks (one in each round). However, they are highly likely to receive at least one compensatory pick (probably a 3rd, 4th, or 6th rounder) for net free agent losses in 2024 (primarily Jonah Jackson). So the total **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** is most likely 8 or possibly 9 picks.

Do the Lions have a first-round pick in 2025?

Yes! Unlike the 2024 draft where they traded their first-rounder for Jameson Williams (via the Matthew Stafford trade), the Lions currently hold their *own* first-round selection for the 2025 NFL Draft. It's projected to be a late first-round pick (likely between picks 24-32), assuming they are playoff contenders again.

What is the biggest need for the Lions in the 2025 draft?

Based on the current roster construction and upcoming contracts, the most glaring, high-priority need is clearly Edge Rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Finding a consistent, every-down threat to boost the pass rush is paramount. Other significant needs include Cornerback (long-term depth/starter opposite Terrion Arnold), Offensive Tackle (future replacement for Taylor Decker), and potentially Wide Receiver (depth/physical presence).

When and where is the 2025 NFL Draft?

The 2025 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place April 24-26, 2025. The location has not been officially announced yet, but there is strong speculation it could be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, as part of the league's rotational plan.

Can the Lions trade their 2025 draft picks?

Absolutely. General Manager Brad Holmes has shown a clear willingness to trade picks to move up for targeted players (see: Jameson Williams, Brodric Martin) or to move back and accumulate more selections. Trading their late first-round pick to gain extra Day 2 picks is a very plausible scenario. Those **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** are valuable assets he can use to maneuver.

What positions did the Lions draft in 2024? How does that affect 2025?

The 2024 draft was heavily focused on the secondary (CB Terrion Arnold, CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., S/CB hybrid) and offensive line (OT Giovanni Manu, G/T Christian Mahogany, C/G). They also drafted a dynamic running back (Sione Vaki) and a raw DT (Mekhi Wingo). This focus likely pushes Cornerback slightly down the priority list for 2025 *unless* Carlton Davis departs or Arnold/Rakestraw struggle. It doesn't diminish the huge need at Edge Rusher or the future need at Offensive Tackle. Think of the 2024 picks filling immediate holes; the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** will focus on the *next* set of needs and future starters.

Will the Lions draft a quarterback in 2025?

It's highly unlikely they use a high pick on a QB in 2025. Jared Goff is firmly entrenched as the starter after signing a massive extension. Hendon Hooker, drafted in 2023, is the developmental project. Taking a QB late on Day 3 (Rounds 6-7) as a camp arm/potential practice squad project is possible, but not a priority. Goff is the guy.

How do compensatory picks work, and why might the Lions get them?

Compensatory picks are awarded by the NFL based on a team's net loss of free agents in the previous offseason. If you lose more or "better" (determined by salary, playing time, awards) free agents than you sign, you get extra picks. The Lions lost significant free agents (Jonah Jackson, Josh Reynolds, C.J. Gardner-Johnson) while signing Kevin Zeitler and DJ Reader. Reader's deal was large, but Zeitler's was relatively modest. The net loss, especially Jackson's big contract, strongly suggests the Lions will receive at least one compensatory pick in 2025, likely in Round 3, 4, or 6. These picks are crucial extra assets for Brad Holmes.

Wrapping It Up: What Lions Fans Should Watch For

Predicting the exact outcome of the **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** over a year in advance is impossible. The 2024 season will completely reshape the landscape – revealing roster strengths, exposing weaknesses, and setting the actual draft order. Injuries will happen. Breakout stars will emerge. But understanding the foundation gives you a massive head start.

The Lions have solid draft capital, likely bolstered by at least one compensatory pick. The needs are clear: EDGE, OT, CB, WR, IDL. Brad Holmes operates with a clear philosophy: prioritize the trenches and premium positions, value high-character producers with athletic upside, and be aggressive to get "his guys." Expect movement on draft night – that late first-rounder is prime trade-back bait. And keep your eye on those Edge Rushers throughout the college football season. That’s where the smart money is for pick #1... whenever that pick actually lands.

It's exciting, isn't it? Finally talking about the draft as contenders, not pretenders. The **Detroit Lions draft picks 2025** are tools to build a sustained winner. Holmes has earned our trust. Now, let's see how the 2024 ride goes and where those chips fall next April. Go Lions!