The Detroit Lions exited the 2025 NFL Draft without securing a top-tier edge rusher—but not for a lack of trying.

As noted by Mike Payton of A to Z Sports, Lions GM Brad Holmes made a few telling remarks. He said there were “a few times we tried to go get one,” and admitted there were moments when they “couldn’t move up” in a trade.

While Payton clarified it’s “just a hunch” and not based on sources, he speculates that Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart may have been the Lions’ target.

Adding a pass rusher has been a major wish among Lions fans, with most hoping for someone to line up opposite All-Pro Aidan Hutchinson.

Unless Detroit brings in a free agent—like perhaps re-signing Za’Darius Smith—they’ll have exited the draft without real support for Hutch.

Stewart ended up being taken 17th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals.

Though it’s speculative to hear a GM mention failed trades and assume a specific player, Payton’s theory carries weight.

“Why Stewart? It’s mostly because of the top-30 visits. The Lions seem to favor guys they bring in for those,” Payton said. “Only three edge rushers came in on 30 visits, and Stewart was the only projected first-rounder.”

Payton also noted that Stewart was the lone edge rusher taken between picks 12 and 28—aside from James Pearce Jr., who he doubts was on Detroit’s radar.

Ultimately, the Lions couldn’t pull it off. Stewart didn’t rack up major stats in college (4.5 sacks over three seasons) but flashes elite potential.

Even if Stewart was their target, plenty of GMs attempt similar moves every draft and fall short.

Holmes has not yet shown any major draft errors, and until he does, Lions fans should remain confident in his decisions.

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