Eight Early Names to Watch for the Detroit Lions’ First Pick in the 2025 NFL Draft
The Detroit Lions, a team in transition, are looking to build on a promising 2024 season with an eye toward securing a game-changing player in the 2025 NFL Draft. As the franchise looks to solidify its position as a playoff contender in the NFC, their first-round pick will be crucial to their success. Whether it’s a potential star on offense or defense, the Lions have plenty of needs to address as they continue to reshape their roster.
Given that the NFL Draft is still a few months away, this list will examine some of the early names making waves in draft circles as potential fits for Detroit’s first pick. These players possess the skills, upside, and potential to elevate the Lions’ roster immediately. Here are eight early names to be aware of as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches.
1. Caleb Williams (QB, USC)
While the Lions already have Jared Goff as their starting quarterback, Caleb Williams’ talent might be too tantalizing to ignore if Detroit holds a high enough pick. Williams, who won the 2023 Heisman Trophy, has all the tools that NFL scouts crave in a franchise quarterback. With incredible mobility, a strong arm, and elite decision-making, Williams has displayed the ability to lead USC to victory in high-pressure situations.
While drafting Williams would be a bold move given Goff’s strong play, there’s always a possibility the Lions could look to the future and secure a quarterback who could be a long-term answer under center. Williams’ upside could justify sitting behind Goff for a season or two, allowing him to develop further while Detroit remains competitive in the short term.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Ohio State)
Wide receiver is one of the most pressing needs for the Lions. Despite having a solid group of playmakers, the addition of an elite wide receiver could push their offense to another level. Enter Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the top receiving prospects in recent years. With elite size (6’4″, 205 pounds), excellent route running, and spectacular hands, Harrison is one of the most polished wideouts to come out of college in a long time.
His ability to make plays in all areas of the field — from jump balls to separating from defenders on deep routes — makes him a perfect fit for Detroit’s pass-heavy offense. Pairing Harrison with Amon-Ra St. Brown could give the Lions one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the NFL, allowing the offense to attack both the short and deep parts of the field with efficiency.
3. Jared Verse (EDGE, Florida State)
The Lions have made strides on the defensive side of the ball, but they are still in need of an elite pass rusher to help shore up their defensive line. Jared Verse, an edge rusher from Florida State, has the potential to be that game-changer. Standing at 6’4″ and 250 pounds, Verse combines great athleticism with a relentless motor that allows him to pressure quarterbacks consistently.
In 2024, Verse is expected to have another dominant season at Florida State, and if he continues his strong play, he could be an ideal selection for the Lions with their first-round pick. A player like Verse could provide the defense with the kind of edge presence it has lacked for years, especially when it comes to closing out games late in the fourth quarter.
4. Joe Alt (OT, Notre Dame)
While Detroit has solidified several key positions on offense, the offensive line remains a critical area where improvement is always welcomed. Joe Alt, an offensive tackle from Notre Dame, could be a major addition to the Lions’ front five. At 6’7″ and 325 pounds, Alt is a physically imposing figure who has shown the ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside with ease.
His technical skills, combined with his size and strength, make him a potential cornerstone for Detroit’s offensive line. Given the Lions’ commitment to a balanced offensive attack, having a player of Alt’s caliber would give them a significant boost both in the passing and running game. Alt would provide a high-upside option who could protect Jared Goff or any future quarterback for the long haul.
5. Chop Robinson (EDGE, Penn State)
Another edge rusher to keep an eye on is Chop Robinson from Penn State. Robinson is known for his explosive first step, incredible bend around the edge, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. At 6’3″ and 250 pounds, Robinson has the ideal frame for an edge rusher and plays with a high motor every down.
The Lions need someone who can wreak havoc in opposing backfields, and Robinson has shown the ability to generate pressure in both the running and passing game. His skill set would complement the existing talent on Detroit’s defensive line and could be a key factor in helping the team improve its pass rush and overall defense.
6. Brock Bowers (TE, Georgia)
Tight end is another position where Detroit could look to add a playmaker. While they have a solid group of tight ends, none have the potential to be a true difference-maker like Brock Bowers from Georgia. One of the most gifted and explosive tight ends to come out of college in years, Bowers is a mismatch nightmare. His ability to line up in the slot, out wide, or inline makes him a versatile weapon that can be utilized in a variety of ways.
At 6’4″ and 240 pounds, Bowers has the speed, strength, and agility to dominate defenders both as a blocker and a receiver. Adding Bowers to the Lions’ offense would provide another dynamic weapon for Jared Goff, giving him a safety blanket over the middle of the field and someone who can create mismatches against linebackers and safeties.
7. Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB, Alabama)
Cornerback is an area where the Lions could stand to improve, and Kool-Aid McKinstry from Alabama has the talent to make an immediate impact. Known for his ability to blanket wide receivers, McKinstry has excellent speed, ball skills, and the instincts needed to thrive at the NFL level. His ability to disrupt the passing game would help strengthen Detroit’s secondary, which has shown promise but could use another top-tier corner.
At 6’0″ and 190 pounds, McKinstry has the size and physicality to match up with a wide variety of receivers. Adding a player of his caliber to the Lions’ defense could elevate their pass coverage to a new level, giving them a top-tier secondary to complement their pass rush and create more turnovers.
8. Kenny McIntosh (RB, Georgia)
The Lions have a solid backfield, but they may look to add another dynamic playmaker at running back to create a more explosive offense. Kenny McIntosh from Georgia has all the tools to be a game-changing back at the next level. He is an explosive runner with great vision and can contribute as a receiver out of the backfield as well.
McIntosh’s versatility and ability to make plays in both the running and passing game make him a potential steal for the Lions if they are looking to upgrade their offensive weaponry. A player like McIntosh could work in tandem with Detroit’s existing running backs and provide even more flexibility to their offensive scheme.
