With the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine completed and the first week of free agency wrapped up, mock drafts are being released by nearly every analyst. Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press has unveiled his latest NFL Mock Draft, projecting the Lions to continue their approach of selecting the best player available, regardless of position, when they’re on the clock.

Birkett predicts the Lions will take Jihaad Campbell with the No. 28 pick in the first round and shared his reasoning behind the selection.

“If the Detroit Lions draft LB Jihaad Campbell, they’d be adding a versatile defender recognized for his speed, athleticism, and ability to make plays across the field. This choice inevitably raises the question of whether Detroit would invest another first-round pick in a linebacker, given their greater needs on the defensive front—both at edge rusher and defensive tackle—as well as on the offensive line, particularly after Kevin Zeitler signed with the Titans.

 Brad Holmes has consistently stressed that he prioritizes drafting top-tier talent over simply filling positional needs. If Campbell is still available at No. 28, expect the Lions to seriously consider selecting him.”