It appears that the Detroit Lions remain largely the same following a week of NFL Combine events.
Before the combine, the team was expected to use the 28th pick in this year’s NFL Draft on an edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, given the rest of the pass rush underperformed in the 2024 season.
Following the combine, that still seems to be the anticipated plan.
The only change is that a new mock draft features a different name in the 28th pick spot.
In his most recent mock draft, Luke Easterling of Athlon Sports projected the Lions to select Boston College edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku with their first-round pick.
Ezeiruaku experienced a fluctuating career at Boston College.
As a sophomore, he demonstrated significant potential, recording 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, 61 total tackles, and three forced fumbles.
As a result, he earned a spot on the preseason All-ACC First Team for his junior year. However, his production declined that season, finishing with just two sacks, 53 tackles, and seven tackles for loss.
He made a strong comeback this past season.
In his final college season, Ezeiruaku delivered an impressive performance, tallying 16.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, 80 total tackles, and three forced fumbles.
His dominant senior season earned him consensus All-American honors, the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award, and the Ted Hendricks Award.
While there are some concerns about his size, it didn’t seem to hinder him as he dominated the ACC this past season.
If the Lions haven’t addressed the edge position by draft night, their selection will likely come down to whether they prioritize proven production or raw potential.
Several prospects didn’t post big numbers in college but are considered high-upside options, while fewer boast standout production.
If the Lions are looking for a proven producer to pair with Hutchinson and Mike Green is no longer available, Ezeiruaku would be a logical choice.
