Five Detroit Lions Draft Prospects to Monitor in Alabama vs. Oklahoma
As the Detroit Lions push toward the end of a critical NFL season, weaknesses in roster depth have become increasingly clear. Addressing those gaps will be a major priority for general manager Brad Holmes, and the upcoming NFL Draft remains the most effective way to do so.
With the College Football Playoff kicking off Friday night, the Alabama vs. Oklahoma matchup provides a prime scouting opportunity. Below are five prospects who should be firmly on Detroit’s radar during the opening CFP game.
OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
Proctor earns another mention as a Lions prospect worth watching, and it’s easy to see why. Recently mocked to Detroit at No. 17 overall, Proctor combines physical traits, upside, and consistent performance in a way scouts covet.
He ranks among the top offensive tackles in Pro Football Focus grading and has been recognized as a consensus All-American. On PFF’s Big Board, he currently sits just outside the elite tier of tackles, making him a realistic first-round option—especially in a draft class without overwhelming depth at the position.
One of Proctor’s most appealing traits is his age. He won’t turn 21 until June, making him one of the youngest prospects projected near the top of the draft. That youth, paired with his current polish, suggests substantial developmental upside at the NFL level.
LB Deontae Lawson, Alabama
Alabama linebacker Deontae Lawson projects as a solid Day 2 pick and has been a steady contributor for the Crimson Tide. This season, he has compiled 75 tackles, pushing his career total to 269 across 50 appearances, along with 17.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and an interception.
Lawson shows good awareness in coverage and plays with strong instincts. While he lacks elite athleticism that would push him into first-round territory, his reliability and versatility make him appealing.
With Alex Anzalone set to hit free agency after the season, Detroit may consider a younger option at linebacker. If so, Lawson fits the profile of a dependable replacement.
WR Deion Burks, Oklahoma
Burks may already be familiar to Lions fans after spending three seasons at Purdue before transferring to Oklahoma. Though he has never surpassed 612 receiving yards in a single season, he has accumulated 144 career receptions and stands out as a precise route-runner.
Detroit has recently invested heavily at wide receiver, including trading up for Isaac TeSlaa. Still, Burks could become an option if the team moves on from Kalif Raymond in free agency.
Concerns remain about his lack of high-end production and limited value as a returner due to his size. Even so, Burks could carve out a role as a depth receiver in the Lions’ offense behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and TeSlaa.
S Keon Sabb, Alabama
Another recognizable name, Keon Sabb previously played at Michigan before transferring to Alabama. He fills a versatile role in the secondary, similar to how Brian Branch is used in Detroit’s defense.
Sabb excels in reading the quarterback and playing underneath zones, using strong instincts to disrupt passing lanes. Over the past three seasons, he has totaled five interceptions and 12 pass breakups, along with 112 tackles, showing he’s willing to be physical.
With injuries affecting both Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, Detroit may look to reinforce its safety depth. Sabb has even drawn comparisons to Joseph in recent scouting reports, making him a natural fit to watch closely.
EDGE R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
One of the most intriguing battles of the night will be between Oklahoma edge rusher R Mason Thomas and Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor. Thomas enters the game as one of the most disruptive defenders on the field.
Despite missing time this season, Thomas has recorded 6.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss, following up a strong 2024 campaign where he posted nine sacks. His explosiveness and energy off the edge stand out, particularly with fresh legs after recovering from injury.
Thomas previously made his mark against Alabama with a sack and multiple tackles for loss in a dominant Oklahoma win. A similar performance Friday could elevate him into first-round consideration.
For Detroit, adding another high-level pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson remains a priority, and Thomas fits that need well. Like Proctor, he’s also young, turning 22 shortly before the 2026 regular season.
With several compelling individual matchups, the spotlight will shine brightest on the trench battle between Proctor and Thomas. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST, and Lions evaluators will have plenty to analyze.
