Detroit Lions Defense Ranked Sixth Following 2025 NFL Draft

The Detroit Lions defense is not expected to have a dramatic dip in performance this upcoming NFL season.

In a recent ranking of NFL defenses following the 2025 Draft by Bleacher Report, Kelvin Sheppard's unit ranked sixth.

"With a healthy Hutchinson back in the fold, a line that also features tackles Alim McNeil and DJ Reader and edge-rusher Josh Paschal should be a problem for opponents, especially with first-rounder Tyleik Williams also working into the mix inside," writes Gary Davenport. "Lions linebackers Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone aren’t stars, but they are solid starters. It's the back of the defense that will determine Detroit's status in 2025 though."

Detroit's secondary is expected to continue their growth, as Sheppard is tasked with continuing to develop two of the best safeties in the league along with a couple of young defensive backs.

"Brian Branch is one of the best young safeties in the NFL, and batterymate Kerby Joseph led the league with nine picks last year," Davenport explained. "The acquisition of free-agent cornerback D.J. Reed is an upgrade over Carlton Davis, but the likes of Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson will have to step up and be more consistent this season."