When the Detroit Lions leapt 32 spots in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft to grab Arkansas receiver Isaac TeSlaa, it turned heads across the league. Now, a fresh report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler offers the clearest insight yet into why Detroit was so bold in making that leap.
Per Fowler, the Lions weren’t alone in targeting TeSlaa, and their quick action was all about staying ahead of the competition.
“TeSlaa also had impressive pre-draft meetings with the New Orleans Saints (No. 71) and the Buffalo Bills (No. 72), so it was no coincidence that Detroit moved up right before them, and Denver at No. 74, who picked receiver Pat Bryant,” Fowler noted.
Detroit sacrificed three third-rounders to move up to pick No. 70—just ahead of the Saints and Bills. Both had high interest in TeSlaa following his standout pre-draft efforts.
Rather than risk missing out, the Lions acted decisively to secure their target.
TeSlaa’s draft journey was far from traditional. Initially off most scouting radars, he had to earn every look from teams.
“TeSlaa began without major draft attention and had to hustle for a Hula Bowl invite, which led to the Senior Bowl,” Fowler wrote. “He impressed at both, then turned heads at the combine by posting a 4.43-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds.”
That blend of athleticism, size, and determination made TeSlaa a compelling option. Detroit recognized his upside and wasn’t about to let him end up with a rival.
Fowler added that TeSlaa was aware of what Detroit’s move signified. He understood the Lions’ urgency.
“TeSlaa also had impressive pre-draft meetings with the New Orleans Saints (No. 71) and the Buffalo Bills (No. 72), so it was no coincidence that Detroit moved up right before them, and Denver at No. 74.”
It’s evident Detroit wasn’t taking a chance—they were being proactive, forecasting a receiver run and targeting TeSlaa specifically. He wasn’t a fallback option. He was the priority.
Draft-day deals aren’t always clear-cut, but this one is. Detroit saw standout qualities in TeSlaa—on film and during workouts—and did what it took to bring him in. Whether the move pays off remains to be seen, but if his trajectory holds, the Lions’ bet on his drive and potential could turn out to be wise.
