Who did Detroit Lions draft in 2025? Here are the 7 picks
Detroit Lions 2025 NFL Draft Recap: A Mixed Bag of Results
The Detroit Lions’ 2025 NFL Draft class has been a subject of debate among fans and analysts, with some considering it a disappointment compared to their previous drafts from 2021-2024. However, it’s essential to remember that the NFL can be a challenging league for rookies to adjust to, and there’s still plenty of room for growth for the players drafted by the Lions in 2025.
A Closer Look at the Lions’ 2025 Draft Picks
The Lions made a total of seven draft picks in 2025, with some players showing more promise than others. The most consequential picks were arguably defensive tackle Tyleik Williams in the first round and offensive guard Tate Ratledge in the second round. These two players were expected to make an immediate impact, but their rookie seasons were relatively muted compared to some of their recently drafted teammates.
First-Round Pick: DT Tyleik Williams
The Lions selected Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams at No. 28 overall, looking to bolster their interior defensive line. Williams played in all 17 games but started only 10, recording 18 tackles and two tackles for loss. While his rookie season was mixed, the team has seen first-round players show significant improvements in subsequent years, with wide receiver Jameson Williams being a prime example.
Second-Round Pick: OG Tate Ratledge
Offensive guard Tate Ratledge has been the standout performer from the 2025 draft class so far. Ratledge started at guard in all 17 games, appearing on 99% of offensive snaps for the Lions, and established himself as an NFL-ready lineman. The team has considered moving him to center, but with the signing of former Carolina Panthers center Cade Mays, Ratledge is likely to stay at guard for 2026.
Third-Round Pick: WR Isaac TeSlaa
Isaac TeSlaa, the Lions’ third-round pick, was arguably the most exciting sensation in 2025, with the team trading both their 2026 third-round picks to draft him. TeSlaa rewarded the Lions with instant production, catching six touchdown passes and averaging 14.9 yards per reception. The team hopes he will take a bigger leap in 2026 as he grows into his role.
Later-Round Picks: A Mixed Bag
The Lions’ later-round picks showed varying degrees of promise. Fifth-round pick Miles Frazier appeared in the final five games of the season, while sixth-round pick Ahmed Hassanein was initially released but joined the practice squad in November. Seventh-round picks Dan Jackson and Dominic Lovett faced different challenges, with Jackson suffering a leg injury and missing the entire season, and Lovett appearing in 12 games but not recording a catch.
Conclusion: Room for Growth and Improvement
While the Lions’ 2025 draft class may not have been as flashy as some had hoped, it’s essential to remember that the NFL is a challenging league for rookies to adjust to. With time and development, these players can still make significant contributions to the team. As the Lions look to the future, they will be hoping that their 2025 draft class will take a big leap forward in 2026.
Source: WorldNewsAPI | Read original