The prevailing belief about the Lions’ 2025 draft strategy is that they will target a pass rusher to improve a weak spot on their defense from 2024.

With the recent release of Za’Darius Smith, this scenario seems even more probable. ESPN’s top draft analyst shares that view.

In his latest mock draft on Tuesday, Mel Kiper Jr. projected the Lions to select Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 28th pick:

“To break through in the playoffs, Detroit needs a more consistent pass rush opposite Hutchinson,” Kiper wrote.

“Pearce had just 7.5 sacks in 2024, but his 19% pressure rate ranked second in the FBS. His combination of burst and strength keeps offensive tackles on edge.”

Over three seasons at Tennessee, Pearce (6-5, 245 pounds) totaled 19.5 sacks and 75 tackles.

Kiper is not alone in this prediction; Pro Football Focus also mocked Pearce to Detroit after last month’s NFL combine.