The Detroit Lions added seven new players during the 2025 NFL Draft, a few of whom could step into meaningful roles quickly. Just like last year, GM Brad Holmes made several moves — this time on both Day 2 and Day 3 — to secure offensive reinforcements.

And yes, in case you missed it: the Lions finally grabbed an edge rusher.

They also selected two powerful, aggressive offensive linemen, a pair of receivers — including a Michigan native — a depth safety, and, with their 28th overall pick, one of the top defensive tackles available this year.

Let’s break down each of the Lions’ seven draft picks:

Round 1, Pick 28: DT Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

For the fourth year in a row, the Lions used their first-rounder to bolster the defense — each time at a different position. Given Detroit’s rash of injuries on the defensive line and Za’Darius Smith’s exit, many expected Holmes to chase an edge early.

Instead, the team prioritized the interior line, drafting Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams. Holmes said the position was a major concern, and with top players vanishing from the board, they opted for someone they rated highly.

“They basically said if I’m there, there’s a chance they’ll pick me,” Williams said. “So I had my phone in hand, volume all the way up, watching every second. I was nervous, and when it rang, I can’t even describe the rush of emotions I felt.”

Williams calls himself a film addict, always breaking down tape for advantages he can pass on to teammates. That shared awareness, he says, makes the whole unit stronger.

Though some questioned his pass-rushing upside, Williams said Ohio State’s scheme didn’t showcase his full potential — a claim supported by position coach Larry Johnson. But against the run, he’s elite. PFF gave him an 88.6 run defense grade and a 7.8% stop rate.

Williams said the Bills likely would’ve taken him at No. 30 if Detroit hadn’t.

“Had a few calls coming in near our pick,” Holmes said. “Didn’t love how the board was shaping up for us. That’s the beauty of the draft: 31 other teams, 31 different boards. You prepare all you can, but you never really know. That’s what makes this process thrilling. You just try to make the smartest call you can.”

Now, Williams joins a line that includes Alim McNeill — someone to whom he’s already being compared.

“He’s an incredible player. I don’t mind that comparison one bit,” Williams said. “I think we’ll work really well together and cause problems.”

Round 2, Pick 57: G Tate Ratledge, Georgia

When ranking the best Day 2 fits for Detroit, Ratledge made the list. However, few foresaw the team moving up to land him. Some were surprised they passed on edge rushers, but picking a physical brawler like Ratledge fit the bill.

With Kevin Zeitler gone and question marks around Christian Mahogany’s readiness, plus Glasgow’s injury concerns, it made sense to add someone with Ratledge’s toughness. Like Mahogany, he’s got a bit of a “dirtbag” attitude — something the Lions’ line thrives on.

“The Lions’ O-line has been elite for a while,” Ratledge said. “They’re nasty, quick, and powerful. I watch them often, trying to learn from their style and apply it to mine.”

Ratledge helped Georgia win two national titles and tested as an elite athlete. His unofficial Relative Athletic Score was a near-perfect 9.97, ranking fifth out of more than 1,500 guards over nearly four decades.

Round 3, Pick 70: WR Isaac TeSlaa, Arkansas

Despite re-signing Tim Patrick, the Lions still needed another receiver. While they’ve developed stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, a reliable WR3 was missing.

To fill that need, Detroit moved up to grab 6-foot-4, 214-pound Isaac TeSlaa — a Hudsonville native who rose from Hillsdale to Arkansas. He impressed scouts at the combine with a 4.43-second 40 and a 39.5-inch vertical.

Patrick has been dependable, but TeSlaa’s physical tools could elevate this receiving corps.

. “I’m tall, fast, and built to play outside, but I can also move into the slot,” TeSlaa said. “I want to keep growing every day, just like anyone else in this league. That’s my mindset.”

Round 5, Pick 171: OL Miles Frazier, LSU

The Lions continued stacking the trenches, drafting 6-foot-5, 324-pound LSU lineman Miles Frazier.

Frazier combines bulk with impressive movement. He earned an 88 pass-blocking grade and an 88.7 true set score from PFF. Though his arm length might limit him to guard, he’ll need more strength to challenge for a starting job.

One great stat: Frazier didn’t give up a single sack in his last 20 college games.

Detroit will use him and Ratledge as flexible pieces. Holmes said coach Hank Fraley plans to cross-train both at several spots, including center.

“Coach Fraley will test them everywhere — even if they’ve never snapped before, he’ll try it,” Holmes said. “But he won’t set them up to fail. He’s looking for guys with the mental makeup and communication skills to handle the position. It’s more than snapping; it’s about leadership.”

Round 6, Pick 196: EDGE Ahmed Hassanein, Boise State

“Happy now, Lions fans?” might’ve been Holmes’ thought after drafting edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein.

In all seriousness, the team needed depth at that spot, and Hassanein could be a sneaky good late-round find.

The 6-foot-3, 267-pound edge rusher is raw, with just six years of football experience. Still, his film shows relentless energy and solid traits that Detroit’s new D-line coach Kacy Rodgers can develop.

“He plays with insane effort,” Holmes said. “He’s raw, but his motor is off the charts. At that position, you need to set edges, apply pressure — even if it’s not a sack. Collapse the pocket, make noise, and do it with effort.”

“We love his upside,” Holmes continued. “He’s got the right mindset and a ton of passion. He was fired up to get here, and that’s what you want.”

Over the past two seasons, Hassanein totaled 33 tackles for loss, 22 sacks, and forced two fumbles.

Round 7, Pick 230: S Dan Jackson, Georgia

Safety wasn’t a loud need for Detroit, but it was a quiet one. Holmes addressed it late by dipping back into Georgia’s talent pool for Dan Jackson.

We projected Jackson as a Day 3 Lions target. He racked up 47 solo tackles, two picks, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble last year — earning third-team All-SEC honors. With Detroit’s crowded safety room, his best path is via special teams.

“We’ve liked Dan Jackson for a while. He’s a smart, instinctive safety who makes plays,” Holmes said. “He’s also faster than people give him credit for.”

Round 7, Pick 244: WR Dominic Lovett, Georgia

Detroit went back to the Georgia well to close the draft, selecting slot receiver Dominic Lovett.

After trading up for TeSlaa, another wideout pick was unexpected — but Lovett brings quickness, toughness, and solid YAC potential. While he’s no Amon-Ra St. Brown just yet, the traits are familiar. Like Jackson, his early impact likely comes on special teams.

“Put me anywhere on the field — I’ll make a difference,” Lovett said. “Special teams, offense, doesn’t matter. I just want to contribute.”

“ Lovett’s been on our radar for a while,” Holmes added. “He’s got speed, versatility, and is a great special teamer. We’re thrilled to have him.”