The Detroit Lions selected Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams with the 28th overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft Thursday night. The pick addresses a need on the interior defensive line.
Draft night included numerous shifts and unexpected selections before the Lions were on the clock. An early trade saw the Jacksonville Jaguars move up to the second pick, using it on Colorado star Travis Hunter, a rare two-way player.
Detroit held the 28th selection after making a trade last year that allowed them to move up in the 2024 draft. That maneuver secured cornerback Terrion Arnold for the team's secondary.
The first round saw several players with Michigan ties find NFL homes. Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan, went fifth overall to Cleveland. Former Michigan State defensive tackle Derrick Harmon was taken 21st by Pittsburgh.
Analysts provided varied predictions leading up to the event. Some expected the Lions to target a pass rusher with their selection, according to reports by Dave Birkett.
Commentary on the team's overall draft strategy will continue as the weekend progresses. Evaluating the performance of General Manager Brad Holmes involves assessing the full draft class, a task columnist Carlos Monarrez tackled.
Beyond the picks themselves, the league announced the 2025 NFL schedule reveal date during the broadcast. Fans can track draft results and news through the NFL Draft Hub.
